History of the Shortwave Radio

The history of shortwave dates to the 1920s.

Shortwave, named due to the size of its wavelength, operates at higher frequencies than AM broadcasts, which were invented earlier. Its history is distinctly different than its AM and FM cousins because of its ability to transmit at great distances.

Invention

This type of radio was created in 1921 with the first shortwave broadcasts across the Atlantic by the American Radio Relay League. By 1927, Phillips Laboratories was broadcasting from the Netherlands to India in shortwave. Five years later, the BBC Empire Service was founded on the technology.

Wartime use

The global nature of shortwave broadcasts made them ideal for use during World War II to broadcast into territory occupied by the other side.

Cold War

During the Cold War, shortwave saw heavy use by both sides. Outlets such as Radio Moscow and the Voice of America worked to broadcast information between the East and West. Jamming efforts by governments were common.

Today

In the modern era, shortwave is a mainstay of communication for emergencies and in getting outside news into repressive nations. However, new technologies and the freer flow of information have led to a continuing reduction in its use.

References

• New York Times: Short-wave Radio Era Looks Short-Lived by Doreen Carvajal
• University of San Diego: History of Radio
• Radio Club of America: History
• Cyber College: International Shortwave

Resources

• North American Shortwave Association