The history of American newspapers dates back to the early 18th century, when the first colonial newspapers were published. In the beginning, newspapers were a sideline for printers, but they eventually became a political force and played a role in the campaign for American independence. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guaranteed freedom of the press, and the Postal Service Act of 1792 provided subsidies for the delivery of newspapers.
The evolution of American journalism began in the early 18th century with the emergence of colonial newspapers. Initially, these publications were a byproduct of printing operations, but they soon became a driving force in shaping public opinion and contributing to the struggle for American independence. The First Amendment safeguarded press freedom, while the Postal Service Act of 1792 provided financial support for newspaper distribution.