Network Radio Ratings 1932-1953

<p> Network radio from 1932 to 1953 was a high-stakes competition embracing technology industry government and advertising ruled by dollars and dictated by ratings. This comprehensive reference work provides a fascinating account of broadcasting's most colorful era when four nationwide networks dominated American media as no concerted communications force ever had.</p><p> Introductory sections chronicle the development of the broadcasting advertising and entertainment industries with an explanation of the ratings systems and their evolution. Twenty-one substantial sections follow each covering a specific year of radio's golden age with industry statistics daily program ratings and a chart of the year's 50 top programs. A summary lists the era's most successful programs within the five major formats. Three appendices and a full index conclude the work.</p>