February 13 in American History

February 13, 1741 — the first magazine in America

Andrew Bradford's American Magazine appeared in Philadelphia, narrowly beating Benjamin Franklin's competing publication to become the first magazine printed in the colonies. Neither lasted long, but they launched an American press culture — the flood of pamphlets, papers, and magazines that would help argue a nation into existence.

Common Questions

What happened on February 13 in American history?

In 1741: the first magazine in America. Andrew Bradford's American Magazine appeared in Philadelphia, narrowly beating Benjamin Franklin's competing publication to become the first magazine printed in the colonies.

Why is February 13 significant?

Andrew Bradford's American Magazine appeared in Philadelphia, narrowly beating Benjamin Franklin's competing publication to become the first magazine printed in the colonies. Neither lasted long, but they launched an American press culture — the flood of pamphlets, papers, and magazines that would help argue a nation into existence.

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