3.1 The Establishment of Major Networks

The rise of major networks shaped the landscape of early television. NBC, CBS, and ABC emerged as dominant players, leveraging radio infrastructure and innovative programming to attract viewers. These networks established the foundation for the television industry we know today.

Network strategies and corporate structures played a crucial role in their success. Key figures like David Sarnoff and William S. Paley led the charge, while affiliate relationships and owned stations helped networks expand their reach across the country.

Major Networks

Pioneering Television Networks

Top images from around the web for Pioneering Television Networks

• 

  File:ABC Television Network logo (1957-1962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  National Broadcasting Company - Vikipetã View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  CBS - Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  File:ABC Television Network logo (1957-1962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  National Broadcasting Company - Vikipetã View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Pioneering Television Networks

• 

  File:ABC Television Network logo (1957-1962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  National Broadcasting Company - Vikipetã View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  CBS - Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  File:ABC Television Network logo (1957-1962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  National Broadcasting Company - Vikipetã View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• NBC emerged as the first major television network in 1939, leveraging its existing radio infrastructure
• CBS followed closely behind NBC, launching its television network in 1941
• ABC formed in 1943 after the FCC forced NBC to divest one of its two radio networks
• DuMont Network began operations in 1946 as the world's first commercial television network

Network Strategies and Competition

• NBC initially dominated the television landscape due to its early start and radio success
• CBS focused on developing popular programming to attract viewers and advertisers
• ABC struggled initially but gained ground through innovative programming and sports coverage
• DuMont Network introduced many television firsts but faced financial difficulties competing against larger networks

Network Ownership and Structure

Key Figures in Network Development

• David Sarnoff, president of RCA, played a crucial role in establishing NBC and promoting television technology
• William S. Paley transformed CBS from a small radio network into a major television powerhouse
• Leonard Goldenson led ABC's growth and eventual merger with United Paramount Theaters in 1953

Corporate Structures and Ownership Models

• Radio Corporation of America (RCA) owned and operated NBC as a subsidiary
• CBS operated as an independent company under Paley's leadership
• ABC began as an independent network before merging with United Paramount Theaters
• DuMont Network struggled with limited financial resources as an independent entity

Network Affiliates and Stations

Network Affiliate Relationships

• Network affiliates formed partnerships with major networks to broadcast network programming
• Affiliates received network content and shared advertising revenue
• Local stations maintained some autonomy to produce and air local programming
• Affiliation agreements typically included specific requirements for carrying network shows

Owned and Operated (O&O) Stations

• O&O stations directly owned and controlled by networks in major markets
• Provided networks with guaranteed distribution in key metropolitan areas
• Allowed networks to have more control over programming and advertising in these markets
• FCC regulations limited the number of O&O stations a network could own (initially 5, later increased to 7)