Pioneers in Public Relations

Some of the first figures in PR

H. S. ADAMS wrote the first magazine article about public relations in 1902 when American Review published "What Is Publicity?"

SAMUEL ADAMS orchestrated public relations for the Revolutionary War. He organized the Sons of Liberty, developed the symbol of the liberty tree, staged the Boston Tea Party, named the Boston Massacre, and developed a propaganda campaign which lasted for more than 20 years.

PRESIDENT ABRAHAM LINCOLN was a master at strategic communication. He wisely communicated with Congress and with the people. His Civil War adversary, meanwhile – JEFFERSON DAVIS, president of the Confederate States – kept most matters secret, failed to take the public into his confidence, and made decisions behind closed doors. Since much of the war focused on public opinion, it is little wonder that Lincoln was more successful than Davis in marshalling public opinion, mainly because he recognized the value of an informed and energized citizenry.

PRESIDENT FRANKLIN ROOSEVELT used several public relations vehicles. In 1933 he began his series of "fireside chats" to inform and persuade American citizens. He also expanded the role of the Office of War Information during the Second World War.

PRESIDENT THEODORE ROOSEVELT was the first president to make extensive use of the public relations techniques of news conferences and interviews. He saw the White House as a "bully pulpit" with much potential for publicity and advocacy.

ANNE WILLIAMS WHEATON was named associate press secretary to President Dwight Eisenhower in 1957, the first women in such a role. Her appointment called attention to the growing role of women in public relations.

Anne was the only woman on the list, so up until 1957 there were only men in PR