1901day.year
William S. Paley
(1901 - 1990)
American broadcaster, founded CBS
American broadcaster
founded CBS
American business magnate who transformed broadcasting as the founder and long-time leader of CBS.
William S. Paley was born in Chicago in 1901 into a family tied to the cigar industry.
He acquired the Columbia Broadcasting System in 1928 and built it into one of America's premier radio and television networks.
Under his leadership, CBS pioneered news programming, popular dramas, and innovative entertainment formats.
Paley leveraged advertising partnerships to fund high-quality content and shape network strategy.
During his tenure, CBS became synonymous with journalistic excellence and cultural influence.
He retired in 1981, leaving a legacy as one of the visionaries who defined modern mass media.
1901
William S. Paley
CBS