This book traces the development of the public relations profession and its practices in a variety of sectors, ranging from politics, education, social movements, corporate communication, and entertainment.
"Myers provides a fascinating look at history's milestone events through the lens of public relations-from the missionary work of the Vatican in 1622, the American Revolution in 1776, up through the formation of the State of Israel in 1947. Indeed, the strategies of PR have been more influential in shaping history than previously presented. Myers also offers what may be an industry first: a historiography of the field that (finally) recognizes the contributions of women, African Americans and other minorities.... Of all the histories written about the PR profession, Myers's book is certainly the most readable and relevant." -Shelley Spector, Founder and Director of the Museum of Public Relations, New York
"Finally, a book that explains the history of public relations not as an evolution or as primarily the work of a handful of individuals, but as an action and a practice that emerged organically and continues to adapt in response to changes in society-politically, economically, socially, and technologically. Myers's work is an excellent read for professionals and students alike." - Lisa Parcell, Associate Professor, Elliott School of Communication, Wichita State University
"Writing the history of public relations is like nailing jelly to the wall. Foundational questions such as 'what is public relations' and 'when did it start' have no concrete answers to even allow the process to begin. Yet Dr. Cayce Myers has managed to organize what we do know about the history of public relations to date into a highly readable book [...] a must read for scholars and students of public relations history alike to understand where we are today in terms of historical knowledge and where the gaps in that history remain." - Karla Gower, Professor and Director of the Plank Center for Leadership in Public Relations, University of Alabama
