A news outlet is a source of information for the general public. It may be a newspaper, magazine, television or radio station, or online news website. A news outlet may rely on a news agency for some of its content, or have its own reporters and editors who gather and write stories.
The United States’ first amendment protects freedom of the press, so news outlets play an important role in the nation’s democracy by holding people in power accountable. They must be careful not to skew their agendas too far to the left or right, as this can lead to propaganda and misinformation.
In the US, newspapers began to grow rapidly in size and scope following the American Revolution. Technological advances in telegraphy and printing allowed them to reach farther across the country. By the 1900s, newspaper journalism was known for its advocacy and muckraking. In the 1920s, new technology again changed journalism as radio came to the forefront. Then television and then the Internet.
While some journalists specialize in specific areas, many reporters work on multiple assignments and may contribute to different media outlets. They often work on breaking stories, which are news events that occur immediately and must be broadcast as soon as possible. Other journalists write longer, in-depth news pieces that are published or broadcast on a regular basis, such as feature articles or analysis.
The largest non-profit news organization is the Public Broadcasting Service, which has 349 member stations that offer news and other programs. Other national distributors of news include American Public Television and NETA.