AMERICAN PERIOD (1922)

State of Radio in 1922

 Rapid Growth: The American radio industry experienced explosive growth during this period.
The number of radio stations increased dramatically, and radio broadcasting became a major form
of entertainment and communication.
 Regulation: The Radio Act of 1927 was a significant development during this time. It established
the Federal Radio Commission (FRC), later replaced by the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) in 1934. These regulatory bodies were responsible for allocating frequencies,
managing station licenses, and enforcing broadcasting standards.
 Technology Advancements: Radio technology continued to advance, leading to improved
reception and audio quality. The transition from vacuum tube to solid-state technology, along with
the development of superheterodyne receivers, greatly improved radio sets' performance.
 Programming: Radio programming evolved, with a focus on live music, comedy, drama, news,
and variety shows. Radio networks like NBC and CBS began to dominate the airwaves, offering
national programming.
 Advertising: The rise of commercial broadcasting brought about increased advertising revenues.
Advertisers recognized the potential of radio to reach mass audiences, and this led to the
development of radio advertising as a major revenue source.
Significant Happenings During the Period:

 The Birth of Network Radio: In 1926, the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) was founded,
followed by the Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS) in 1927. These networks standardized and
centralized radio programming, making it accessible to audiences across the country.
 The Radio Act of 1927: This legislation marked a pivotal moment in radio regulation. It
established the FRC to manage and regulate radio broadcasting, addressing issues such as
interference and station licensing.
 The Great Depression: The stock market crash of 1929 and the subsequent Great Depression had
a profound impact on the radio industry. Advertising revenues declined, leading to cost-cutting
measures and changes in programming.
 Innovation in Content: Radio shows like "Amos 'n' Andy," "The Lone Ranger," and "The War of
the Worlds" broadcast in 1938 captivated audiences and demonstrated the power of radio
storytelling.
References:
Douglas, S. (2009). The Rise of Commercial Radio and the Public Interest: The 1927 Federal Radio Act
and Federal Communications Commission. Journal of Radio & Audio Media, 16(2), 157-173.
Hilmes, M. (1997). Radio and the Birth of Cultural Pluralism: The Radio Act of 1927. Journal of
Communication, 47(4), 26-43.
Lackmann, R. J. (2011). Local Public Radio in the United States: Development and Structure of the
Public Radio Service. Historical Journal of Film, Radio and Television, 31(4), 495-512.
Sterling, C. H. (2008). Encyclopaedia of Radio. Taylor & Francis.