icon backReturn to Entries

Radio Corporation of America

The Radio Corporation of America (RCA) played a dominant role in the development of radio and television broadcasting from 1919 until the 1970s. The company’s cemented its influence through the development and manufacture of communications equipment and the establishment of broadcast stations and networks. This entry examines the history of development of the RCA and examines its influence beyond radio broadcasting, including its influence on television and attempted foray into early computing.

History and Development

In the early 20th century, radio was used predominantly for ship-to-shore communications. American Marconi Corporation, a subsidiary of Britain’s Marconi Company, established a monopoly on wireless maritime transmitters and receiving equipment. During World War I, the U.S. Navy took control of American Marconi’s transmitters and was reluctant to return them to the ...

  • Loading...
locked icon

Sign in to access this content

Get a 30 day FREE TRIAL

  • Watch videos from a variety of sources bringing classroom topics to life
  • Read modern, diverse business cases
  • Explore hundreds of books and reference titles