The Power Of News. The History Of Reuters

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In 1851, Julius Reuter relocated from Berlin to London, establishing a telegraph office that would grow into one of the world's most influential news agencies. For over a century, Reuters served as the news agency of the British Empire, dedicated to delivering "truth in news" swiftly—a commitment it upholds today. The agency has played a pivotal role in the evolution of global communications, from early telegraphs to modern satellites. Donald Read chronicles this history, highlighting key milestones, such as the 1866 completion of the first transatlantic cable, which revolutionized news delivery. News that took eight days to reach London in 1861 was reduced to just one day by 1869. Read details how Reuters capitalized on wartime reporting, covering conflicts from the Austro-Prussian War to World War I. Under Christopher Chancellor's leadership post-World War II, the agency expanded internationally, offering services in multiple languages. He also discusses Reuters' financial reporting, including stock market data, which bolstered its independence amid criticisms of bias due to government subsidies. Additionally, Read addresses the controversial decision to become a public company in 1984. With a legacy of breaking major news events, Reuters has remained a leader in global communications, sharing both triumphs and challenges over its 150-year history.