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Television Through History

Explore the major historical events that shaped television, from early experiments and first broadcasts to technological breakthroughs and landmark moments in broadcasting. Discover the development of television technology, major networks and programs, historic broadcasts, influential personalities, and other milestones that transformed entertainment, news, politics, and popular culture.

Major Television Events and Milestones

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📅 Oct 30, 1925

Baird Shows the First Television

On October 30, 1925, John Logie Baird demonstrated television, sending a moving image by wire.

🔖Television
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📅 Oct 5, 1947

Truman Makes the First Televised Presidential Address

On October 5, 1947, Truman gave the first televised presidential address, asking Americans to save grain.

📖Culture📖Politics
🔖Television
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📅 Sep 22, 1955

ITV Goes on Air and Ends the BBC Television Monopoly

On September 22, 1955, ITV launched in London, ending the BBC's 19-year monopoly of British television.

📖Culture📖Economy & Business
🔖Television
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📅 Sep 26, 1960

The First Televised Presidential Debate Is Held in Chicago

On September 26, 1960, the first televised presidential debate was held in Chicago between Kennedy and Nixon, before 70 million viewers.

📖Culture📖Politics
🔖Television
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📅 Sep 8, 1966

Star Trek Premieres on NBC

On September 8, 1966, Star Trek premiered on NBC; cancelled after three seasons, it grew into one of TV's biggest franchises.

📖Culture
🔖Television
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📅 Sep 24, 1968

60 Minutes Premieres on CBS

On September 24, 1968, 60 Minutes premiered on CBS with Mike Wallace and Harry Reasoner, beginning the longest run in prime-time television.

📖Culture
🔖Television
⌛
📅 Oct 11, 1975

Saturday Night Live Debuts on NBC

Saturday Night Live premiered on NBC on October 11, 1975, with George Carlin as host and a cast that included John Belushi.

📖Culture
🔖Television