World news is news that affects people worldwide, including international political, economic, cultural or humanitarian events. It is also known as global or foreign news. This news is often reported by international journalists or gathered through distance communication technologies, such as satellite TV or the Internet. World news is one of the main branches of journalism, along with domestic and local coverage.
The term was first used in the 17th century for newspapers published outside of a country, such as the courants of western Europe. Later, as telecommunications improved, it became easier for journalists to travel overseas and bring back the news. As the practice of journalism evolved into a science, it was organized into several subfields, including world news, national news, and local news.
Historically, WWN covered many major events of the twentieth century. A typical story would describe a major disaster or a new development in world politics. In addition to covering war, peace and other political developments, WWN often included news of a more personal nature. For example, in 1989 the magazine ran graphic photos of a post-autopsied body of serial killer Ted Bundy. Managing editor Eddie Clontz said he hoped the images would deter others from committing murder.
Another popular topic in WWN was new findings related to the Bible. In a typical issue, readers could find out about the discovery of relics from Noah’s Ark and the Garden of Eden, receive updates on when Jesus will return to Earth, learn about additional commandments from God or even read an interview with Sisyphus when he finished his eternal boulder-hauling “workout.” Additionally, WWN often featured historical footage, such as Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1941 “Day of Infamy” speech or footage from the Apollo 11 moon landing, and this is easily accessed through our History Channel.
