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The First PR Firm in the U.S.: The Birth of Public Relations as a Profession

海外传播洞察

This article traces the birth of the first PR firm in the U.S., introduces Edward Bernays, the father of public relations, and Ivy Lee, the father of modern public relations, and outlines the evolution of PR thought from ancient times to the present, helping readers understand the origins and development of the PR industry.

Published 2026.09.07 Section Insights Source E-SENSE
The First PR Firm in the U.S.: The Birth of Public Relations as a Profession

Background

Public relations as a profession traces its origins to the early 20th century in the United States. At that time, a wave of media-led "muckraking" campaigns targeting corporations prompted businesses to pay attention to their public image, giving rise to public relations. In 1903, Ivy Lee opened the first formal public relations consultancy, marking the beginning of PR as a profession. In 1919, Edward Bernays founded the first PR firm in the U.S., further advancing the industry.

Key Information

Edward Bernays, known as the father of public relations, was the first to coin the term "public relations counsel" and is therefore called the father of PR. He founded the first PR firm in the U.S. in 1919. Ivy Lee, known as the father of modern public relations, opened the first formal PR consultancy in 1903 and issued a declaration of principles for PR activities in 1906, advocating the fundamental principle of "telling the truth." These pioneers laid the foundation for the modern PR industry.

Related Services

E-SENSE, as an expert in integrated overseas brand communication, deeply understands the history and value of public relations. We offer professional services including international PR, media communication, and content planning to help brands build trust and reputation in overseas markets. Whether it's crisis management, media relations, or brand storytelling, E-SENSE develops precise communication strategies based on core PR principles.

Industry Insights

From agricultural bulletins in ancient Egypt to rhetoric in ancient Greece, and from the Chinese concept of "Zichan not destroying the village school" to the professional services of modern PR firms, the ideas and practices of public relations have run through human civilization. Today, as globalization deepens, brand globalization communication requires professional PR support. E-SENSE believes that the core of PR has always been "telling the truth" and "building trust," which are also the cornerstones of our client services.

Summary

The first PR firm in the U.S. was founded by Edward Bernays in 1919, while Ivy Lee pioneered the PR consultancy in 1903. The PR industry has undergone a long evolution from its infancy to professionalization. As an integrated overseas communication agency, E-SENSE inherits the ideals of PR pioneers and is dedicated to providing professional international PR and communication services for brands going global.

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