First Popular Magazines

First Popular Magazines

In 1672 Le Mercure galant was founded in Paris by writer Jean Donneau de Vize. It contained news of the royal court, anecdotes, and short bits of verse. Similar periodicals were soon started in England, including Athenian Gazette and Gentleman's Journal. One of the first women's magazines was Ladies' Mercury (1693). The first city guide was likely The London Spy (1698-1700) published by a tavern keeper named Ned Ward. [AM] {CI,CR}