AT&T
AT&T, originally conceived as the long-distance arm of the Bell System, evolved from a foundational innovator in telecommunications to a diversified global media and technology conglomerate, repeatedly reshaping the landscape of connectivity and information distribution.
Quick Facts
- Founded
- 1885
- Founder
- Alexander Graham Bell
- Origin
- USA
Founders
Story Chapters
Timeline
AT&T is Founded
Alexander Graham Bell establishes the American Telephone and Telegraph Company to build and operate the original long-distance telephone network.
First Transcontinental Telephone Call
AT&T completes the first transcontinental telephone call from New York to San Francisco, marking a milestone in communication technology.
First Transatlantic Telephone Service
AT&T introduces the first commercial transatlantic telephone service, connecting the United States and the United Kingdom via radio waves.
Introduction of the Bell Labs Transistor
Bell Labs, part of AT&T, invents the transistor, a breakthrough that revolutionizes electronics and telecommunications.
AT&T Antitrust Settlement
The U.S. government reaches a settlement with AT&T, leading to the divestiture of its local exchange service operating companies.
Telecommunications Act of 1996
The Telecommunications Act of 1996 deregulates the industry, allowing AT&T to enter new markets and expand its services.
Acquisition of SBC Communications
AT&T merges with SBC Communications, creating one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world.
Acquisition of DIRECTV
AT&T acquires DIRECTV, expanding its reach into the television and entertainment industry.
Acquisition of Time Warner
AT&T completes its acquisition of Time Warner, gaining a vast array of media assets and content creation capabilities.
WarnerMedia and Discovery Merger
AT&T announces the merger of WarnerMedia with Discovery, Inc., reshaping its media strategy to focus more on core telecommunications.
Connected Across The Archives
Explore specific connections to other archives—civilizations, conflicts, dynasties, and treaties that share history with this company.
Civilization Archive
(2)American Civilization
AT&T's 1877 founding coincided with America's industrial boom, revolutionizing communication and fostering connectivity in the rapidly expanding nation.
Anglo-Saxon Civilization
AT&T's innovation in telephony illustrates how Anglo-Saxon legal and economic frameworks fostered technological growth, shaping modern communication infrastructure.
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