When was The Economist founded and by whom?
The Economist was founded in 1843 by the Scottish banker James Wilson. The first issue was published on the 5th of August 1843 as a prospectus listing thirteen specific areas of coverage.
Common questions about The Economist
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What was the original mission of The Economist when it launched?
The original mission of The Economist was to dismantle the British Corn Laws and wage a contest between intelligence and unworthy ignorance. James Wilson designed the publication as a weapon for the free-trade movement to benefit merchants and manufacturers.
Who did The Economist support during the 19th-century debate between the Currency School and the Banking School?
The Economist sided with the Banking School during the 19th-century debate between the Currency School and the Banking School. The newspaper argued that financial crises were caused by variations in interest rates and the build-up of excess financial capital leading to unwise investments.
When did The Economist adopt its current red masthead design?
The Economist adopted its current fire engine red masthead design in 1959. The typographer Reynolds Stone created the red color to stand out on newsstands and serve as a warning to the establishment.
Why does The Economist not print bylines on its articles?
The Economist does not print bylines on its articles to ensure the publication speaks with a single collective voice rather than the fragmented opinions of individual journalists. This tradition dates back to the paper's founding and strengthens the paper's brand.
What happened to The Economist correspondent Andrew Meldrum in Zimbabwe?
The Economist correspondent Andrew Meldrum was imprisoned in Zimbabwe for writing that a woman was decapitated by supporters of the ruling party. The correspondent was later acquitted, but the incident underscored the dangers of reporting in repressive environments.