Short History of Advertising

You know those commercials that appear on your TV or phone? The ones from which you occasionally feel as though you cannot escape them, despite your best efforts?

Advertising, believe it or not, has been around for a very long time. Papyrus was used in the past, much like it was in ancient Egypt, to advertise products and services. Then in the Middle Ages, you could see advertisements for everything from fairs to plays posted on church doors and walls. But advertising didn’t really take off until the Industrial Revolution. The printing press’s creation made it much simpler to create and distribute advertisements. Newspapers, periodicals, and posters then became the preferred channels for advertising.

In the twenty-first century, advertising has evolved significantly. You can find advertisements on social media, online, and even in virtual reality. Not to mention the memorable jingles and catchphrases that we still use today (I’m lovin’ it, anyone?). But let’s face it, occasionally advertising can come across as a bit forceful or even manipulative.

Companies employ a variety of strategies to persuade consumers to purchase their goods, including appealing to our emotions and utilizing eye-catching images and data. All things considered, advertising has greatly impacted our planet. It has had an impact on the way we think, how we shop, and how we live.

So the next time you see an ad, just remember: it’s been a part of human society for thousands of years.

Author: Anamaria Manea

Bucharest