Communications in 1900

Before the 20th century, mass communications relied on one method: telegraphy. Evolving from the late form of giving a messenger a letter and having him run, the telegraph was the first big advancement in the world of mass communications. This quick and easy method decreased the workload and effort needed to quickly deliver important messages long distances. However, before August 16, 1858, these messages were limited to one hemisphere. Considering that Europe and the US were basically the great powers of the world, this problem needed a solution. So, on that day, the first transatlantic telegraph message was sent, from President James Buchanan to Queen Victoria of the UK. This moment marked the beginning of a rapid growth of communication methods throughout the 20th century, ranging from the radio to the internet.

These advancements in technology greatly changed history in all of its aspects. Nations and their leaders could now easily communicate with their allies and ambassadors , resulting in quicker actions and easier communication. Mass communication was of political use in wartime, with leaders easily sending information to troops in the field; and, later, of social use, when people could easily talk to their friends or family in a quick, simple manner. Communication has been and always will be one of the most important technologies for the advancement of society.