Which historical event contributed to the growth of mass media in the Western world?

The Protestant Reformation played a significant role in the development of mass media, primarily through its emphasis on individual interpretation of the scriptures and the need for printed materials accessible to a broader audience. The Reformation prompted the production of pamphlets, translations of the Bible, and other printed works. This activism in printing and disseminating ideas laid the groundwork for the burgeoning influence of literature and printed materials, essentially beginning the process of mass communication.

However, it is important to consider other factors as well. The Industrial Revolution notably transformed production methods, which significantly lowered the cost of printing and increased the availability of printed materials, ultimately facilitating the growth of newspapers, books, and magazines. The Enlightenment emphasized reason and individualism, leading to a flourishing of ideas shared through print. The French Revolution inspired mass political discourse and activism, further driving demand for publications that could inform and mobilize the populace. Each of these historical events contributed to the expansion of mass media, but the Industrial Revolution is particularly recognized for creating technologies and infrastructure that vastly increased the scale and reach of media.

Therefore, while the Protestant Reformation indeed sparked early developments in mass media, the Industrial Revolution is more directly linked to the growth and expansion of mass media as we know it today.