History of CNN (1980–2003) History of CNN (1980–2003) Cable News Network (CNN), an American basic cable and satellite television channel that is owned by the Turner Broadcasting System division of Time Warner, was founded in 1980 by Ted Turner and 25 other original members, who invested $20 million into the network. Upon its launch, CNN became the first channel to provide 24-hour television news coverage, and was the first all-news television network in the United States. This article discusses the history of CNN, beginning with the June 1980 launch of the channel. Four years before CNN's launch, in December 1976, Ted Turner turned his
CNN effect CNN effect The CNN effect is a phenomenon in political science and media studies which states that CNN's use of shocking images of humanitarian crises around the world compels U.S. policy makers to intervene in humanitarian situations they may not otherwise have an interest in. The 24-hour international television news channel known as Cable News Network or CNN, had a major impact on the conduct of states' foreign policy in the late Cold War period and that CNN and its subsequent industry competitors have had a similar impact in the post Cold War era. While the free press has, in