In collaboration with Bart Vink - Hifi & Radio Expert
Nowadays we mostly listen to the radio when driving a car; in our homes radio has been replaced by television and the internet. Although radio is still a relevant communication tool, its golden days have passed. Once upon a time, radio was everything, and radio changed everything. Take a step back in time with us and discover the great role your vintage radio played in western society!
In the Beginning
In the year 1895 several inventors were able to send electrical signals over a long distance. The name most associated with the invention of the radio is Guglielmo Marconi, although Nikola Tesla received the patent for the almighty radio in 1943. Years before radios played music, radiotelegraphy showed its importance for the shipping industry. A great example is the wreck of Titanic in 1912, from which 711 passengers were saved when other ships picked up the radio distress signals coming from the Titanic.
Source Image: electronicsandyou.com
Educational Tool
Audio arrived a bit later, with the first commercial broadcasting station arising in in 1919 in The Hague, Netherlands. Soon there were many stations around the world and in the 1920s and 30s, you could find a radio in almost every western home. This meant a great deal for education. Previously, textbooks and college lectures were the only way to gain knowledge; radio programs however, could reach many more people – right in their own homes. In addition to spreading 'textbook' information on the radio, political and social matters were discussed from different points of view. Children and young adults got a much more progressive view on society than schools provided. Nowadays, the radio is used in schools in developed countries.
Source Image: media1.britannica.com
Social Binding
The 1920s through the 50s were the heydays of radio, with more and more shows broadcasted. Radio had become a social medium. People would come together to listen to music, a sports broadcast or a comedy show. Radio was particularly important during the Great Depression, for it provided an affordable form of entertainment. And what of the music industry? Suddenly, different types of music could be heard all over the country or even the world. Radio meant a great deal for the fame of musicians like Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong and it spread different music styles throughout the country.
In Times of War
During World War ΙΙ radio played a crucial role in informing citizens about the situation in their country and in the world. During times of war, radio was both loved and feared. Since radio provided authorities with a great tool for propaganda, 'pirate' radio stations started to arise in many countries. These stations became so important for the spirit of resistance and radios were soon was forbidden in many occupied European countries.
Source Image: bbc.co.uk
Vintage radios
After World War ΙΙ television made its entrance in the world; the heydeys of radio were soon over. Thanks to the significant role of radios back in the old days many vintage radios have been preserved. From Philips to Tesla and from 1929 vintage radios to 'state of the art' 1952 beauties, some are very valuable, most come with a rich history, but all symbolise a great historical change.
