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BBS required a computer, modem, and phone line. It was one of the first places where people could experience online communities, digital communication, and file sharing. Most communication was localized due to cost, creating tight-knit community, and outlets for people with niches.BBS -
Usenet was a discussion forum system; people could post and read messages. The platform introduced the idea of communities, threads, memes, and user-driven content.
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AOL's launch date is in 1991 but has history back to 1983. AOL created the habits used in social media including messaging, profiles, communities, and digital identity. AOL -
MySpace was the first social network to reach a global audience. It established the core DNA of social media: self-expression, connectivity, entertainment, and influence. MySpace -
Facebook is a pivotal platform for online interaction and digital marketing. People can connect and share life moments, businesses can reach their target audience, and the platform can raise awareness or bring social change. Facebook -
Youtube made video sharing a global conversation. It has shaped entertainment, education, marketing, and culture, allowing anyone to share videos. YouTube is "the biggest and the smallest stage. The most public place in the world, from the privacy from our own homes". YouTube -
Twitter, now X, is known for its real-time ability for people to share news globally. Information is able to spread quickly, opinions are formed, and culture is shaped on Twitter. Twitter -
The hashtag was created by Chris Messina. It's used to categorize topics and conversations online so users can easily search and participate in conversations. Hashtag -
Twitch is important because it showed how interactive live streaming could build powerful communities, influence industries, and change how people consume media. Twitch -
Snapchat changed the way social media was viewed. It made communication faster, more personal, more visual, and temporary. Snapchat -
The Ice Bucket Challenge brought awareness to ALS and showed how a viral sensation can reach around the world Ice Bucket Challenge -
Snapchat added stories to allow users to build chains of shared content that can be viewed an unlimited number of times for a temporary period. Stories -
A feature of TikTok that customizes the content each user sees to their liking, based on previous interactions. This changed the way social networks propel content. FYP -
TikTok's rise to success is credited towards its algorithm and creating a For You Page, custom to each user. TikTok is important because of its data-driven personalization, content creation tools, and its emerging role in e-commerce and education. TikTok -
Elon Musk bought Twitter, renaming it X. This purchase was controversial because he not only transitioned the company from public to private, but he completely changed how the company was run. During this period, political tensions were high, fueling the fire. Musk