History of Public Relations

Although public relations is often considered a modern day practice, the act of hiring another to write speeches, give speeches and answer questions on a clients behalf is thousands of years old. In fact, according to one of the pioneers of public relations, Edward Bernays, “The three main elements of public relations are practically as old as society: informing people, persuading people, or integrating people with people.”

By the time of Plato (~427 to 347 BC), rhetoric was well established as a distinct skill and discipline in Greece. In classical Athens public opinion determined matters both large and small, so being able to speak well and persuasively in public was hugely advantageous.

Modern Roots

The first newsletter was founded in 1609, closely followed by the first daily newspaper in 1615, both in Germany. During the settlement of America, many public relations-like activities took place as each of the colonies attempted to attract settlers to their area. Both sides of the English Civil War used pamphlets to attack and defend the monarchy, and in 1641, Harvard College initiated the first systematic U.S. fundraising campaign, which was backed by the first fundraising brochure, New England’s First Fruits.

The more systematic forms of public relations began among the public as they started organizing for social and political movements. The US abolitionist movement used “every available device of communication, appeal and action,” according to Bernays, and public relations also played a role in abolitionist movements around the world.

Public Relations Today

Most identify the early 1900s as the beginning of public relations officially becoming a professional, paid industry. The origins of public relations, although often studied, cannot be pinpointed to any year or date as it evolved over time and through different events. Not-for-profit organizations, including colleges, began to use publicity extensively in the early 20^th century and by 1917 the Association of American College News Bureaus was formed.

For profit corporations also became more aware of the importance of their relationship with clients and in 1907 AT&T hired their first public relations manager. This new role focused on promoting efficient operations and consideration of customers’ needs and creating a systematic method for answering customer complaints.

Since that time, public relation practices have evolved and been reshaped by new technologies and new studies. The creation of new, worldwide consumer and financial markets, along with email and the internet, have erased the days when publicity releases could be planned, scheduled and executed weeks or months in advance.

In today’s world, it’s hard to get noticed without good publicity. If you’re in need of a public relations expert with a proven track record, look no further than Milton Kahn. Milton Kahn has served as a consultant for companies such as General Motors Corporation, Budget Rent-A-Car, Turner Network Television and many more, and he can help you get noticed, too.