What was the role of propaganda during the Seedbed Era of public relations?

The role of propaganda during the Seedbed Era of public relations, which spans from the early 1900s to about 1920, primarily focused on the enhancement of mass media's influence and reach. This period was characterized by the emergence of public relations as a profession alongside the growing power of newspapers and other forms of media. Propagandists during this time harnessed various communication strategies to shape public perception, mobilize support for different causes, and influence public opinion on a range of issues.

The development of mass media provided a platform for propagandists to disseminate information widely, allowing them to reach larger audiences than ever before. This facilitated the spread of messages that sought to convey specific viewpoints, sway public emotions, and ultimately guide societal attitudes. The work done during the Seedbed Era laid the groundwork for modern public relations practices, emphasizing the importance of communication in influencing public perception and behavior.

In contrast, while government control, attracting business investment, and discouraging political dissent were undoubtedly concerns during this era, they do not capture the primary influence of propaganda at this time. Instead, the emphasis on enhancing mass media illustrates how propaganda was used as a tool to expand its reach and effectiveness in shaping the discourse of the day.