Television Ownership in the US Data Between 1950 and 2020
Philo T. Farnsworth, the inventor of television, envisioned widespread television ownership in American households. His early predictions proved remarkably accurate as television ownership in the US skyrocketed between 1950 and 2020. Farnsworth’s journey began in his teenage years with sketches on a high school chalkboard, culminating in the first successful electronic television transmission in 1927. His innovative image dissector technology laid the foundation for the television industry.
Farnsworth’s initial success faced challenges from powerful corporations like RCA, led by David Sarnoff. Despite legal battles and attempts to undermine his patents, Farnsworth was officially recognized as the inventor of television. However, RCA’s dominance in the burgeoning television market ultimately overshadowed Farnsworth’s contributions.
The post-World War II era witnessed an unprecedented surge in television ownership across the United States. The rise of popular programming and the expiration of Farnsworth’s patents allowed RCA to capitalize on the growing demand for televisions. By 1950, only 9% of American households owned a television. This figure dramatically increased to 65% by 1960, largely due to RCA’s market dominance.
The rapid growth in television ownership transformed American culture and entertainment. Families gathered around the “glowing screens” to watch groundbreaking shows that shaped a generation. This period, often referred to as the “Golden Age of Television,” saw the emergence of iconic programs that continue to resonate with audiences today. The accessibility of television brought news, entertainment, and information into homes across the nation, forever changing the media landscape.
The technological advancements pioneered by Farnsworth continued to evolve, leading to larger screens, color television, and eventually digital broadcasting. The widespread adoption of television fueled the growth of the television broadcasting industry, creating jobs and contributing significantly to the American economy. From local news stations to national networks, television became an integral part of daily life, providing a shared experience for millions of viewers. Even with the rise of cable television and streaming services, broadcast television remained a powerful force in the media landscape.
By the late 20th and early 21st centuries, television ownership in the US had reached near saturation. The American Community Survey (ACS) provides comprehensive data on technology adoption in American households. While specific data on television ownership between 1950 and 2020 may require further research in Census Bureau records, the overall trend reflects a continuous increase in ownership and integration into American society. The evolution from a novelty to a ubiquitous household appliance underscores the transformative impact of Farnsworth’s invention. The legacy of Philo Farnsworth, the “Father of Television,” lives on in the technology that continues to shape how we consume information and entertainment.
