The Examiner: A 19th Century Chronicle
Delving into the influential weekly publication that championed radical ideas and literary brilliance.
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About The Examiner
A Weekly Intellectual Journal
Founded in 1808 by Leigh and John Hunt, The Examiner emerged as a significant weekly publication in 19th-century Britain. For its initial fifty years, it served as a leading intellectual journal, distinguished by its commitment to radical principles and its role in shaping public discourse.
Foundational Principles
Initially subtitled "A Sunday paper, on politics, domestic economy, and theatricals," the newspaper strived for impartiality by refusing advertisements, aiming to pursue "truth for its sole object." Its radical reformist stance led to notable legal challenges and prosecutions of its editors, underscoring its commitment to its principles.
Lifespan and Decline
The Examiner ceased publication in 1886, marking the end of a long and influential run. After its initial period of prominence, the paper underwent numerous changes in ownership and political alignment, which gradually eroded its readership and purpose, leading to its eventual closure.
Early History & Influence
The Hunt Brothers' Era
Under the stewardship of Leigh and John Hunt, The Examiner was a platform for independent reporting and critical commentary across politics, domestic affairs, and the arts. It consistently featured contributions from prominent literary figures of the day, establishing itself as a vital voice in the intellectual landscape.
Prosecutions and Principles
The paper's dedication to its reformist ideals and its critical stance on government policies resulted in a series of high-profile prosecutions against its editors. Despite these challenges, the commitment to accurate news reporting and witty political critique continued, setting a high standard for journalism.
Format and Content
For much of its early existence, The Examiner was structured as a sixteen-page journal, priced at sixpence. This format was designed for longevity, encouraging readers to keep and refer back to its content, which included insightful analysis and commentary on contemporary issues.
Later Years and Transformation
Albany Fonblanque's Leadership
Albany Fonblanque, a significant political commentator for the paper, took over as editor in 1830 and served until 1847. During his tenure, he attracted notable contributors and maintained the journal's reputation for insightful analysis. John Forster succeeded him, editing the paper from 1847 to 1855, followed by Marmion Savage.
Shifting Fortunes
The paper's reputation began to decline significantly from the mid-1860s onwards. A decision by a new owner to halve the publication's price in 1867, while intended to broaden appeal, is seen as a factor that undermined its established position. Despite efforts to revive its radical intellectual commentary in the 1870s under editors like William Minto, the paper was repeatedly sold.
Cessation of Publication
The continuous changes in ownership and political direction led to a rapid loss of readership and purpose. The final edition of The Examiner appeared in February 1881, and the publication officially ceased in 1886, concluding its 78-year history.
Literary and Political Contributors
Esteemed Writers
The Examiner was a magnet for many of the most influential writers and thinkers of its time. Its pages featured works from a remarkable roster of talent, contributing to its status as a premier intellectual publication.
Legacy and Impact
Shaping Discourse
For decades, The Examiner played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and intellectual debate in Britain. Its commitment to radical principles and its high-quality literary content made it essential reading for those interested in politics, literature, and social reform.
The Challenge of Change
The later period of the newspaper's existence was marked by instability. Frequent changes in ownership and editorial direction, coupled with shifts in the media landscape, led to a gradual decline. This highlights the challenges faced by publications in adapting to evolving markets while maintaining their core identity.
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References
References
- Philip V. Allingham, "Charles Dickens, the Examiner, and The Fine Old English Gentleman" (1841)
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Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical research, journalistic consultation, or archival verification. Always refer to primary sources and consult with qualified experts for specific historical or journalistic needs.
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