NBC inaugurates its regularly scheduled television service in New York City, broadcasting President Franklin D. Roosevelt's N.Y. World's Fair opening day ceremonial address.

The National Broadcasting Company, more commonly known as NBC, stands as a cornerstone of American media, operating as an English-language commercial broadcast television and radio network. Its ownership traces back to the telecommunications giant Comcast, specifically through its subsidiary, NBCUniversal.

Strategically positioned for national influence, NBC's primary headquarters proudly stands at the iconic 30 Rockefeller Plaza in the heart of New York City. Complementing this central hub are significant operational offices near Los Angeles, located at 10 Universal City Plaza, and in the Midwest, within Chicago's distinctive NBC Tower. Alongside the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) and the Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS), NBC forms part of the revered "Big Three" television networks, a trio that historically shaped and continues to influence the landscape of American broadcast media.

Affectionately nicknamed the "Peacock Network," NBC's moniker is a direct homage to its vibrant, stylized peacock logo. This distinctive emblem was first unveiled in 1956, not merely as a decorative feature, but as a bold statement to promote the company's pioneering innovations in the nascent field of color broadcasting. It formally became an integral part of the network's official identity in 1979 before being refined to its contemporary, instantly recognizable form in 1986, symbolizing decades of technological advancement and entertainment.

With a vast reach across the United States and its territories, NBC operates thirteen owned-and-operated (O&O) stations, directly controlled by the network itself, and maintains affiliations with nearly 200 independent stations. This extensive network ensures that its programming is widely accessible, with some affiliates even reaching audiences in Canada and Mexico, either through pay-television providers or via over-the-air broadcasts in border regions. Furthermore, NBC extends its global footprint through brand licensing agreements, bringing its programming and brand identity to international channels in countries such as South Korea and Germany, showcasing its commitment to worldwide entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions About NBC

Who owns NBC?
NBC is owned by Comcast, through its subsidiary NBCUniversal.
Where are NBC's main offices located?
Its primary headquarters is in New York City at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, with major additional offices near Los Angeles (10 Universal City Plaza) and Chicago (NBC Tower).
Why is NBC sometimes called the "Peacock Network"?
This nickname references its stylized peacock logo, originally introduced in 1956 to promote NBC's innovations in early color broadcasting.
How extensive is NBC's broadcasting reach?
NBC boasts thirteen owned-and-operated stations and nearly 200 affiliated stations across the United States and its territories.
Does NBC have an international presence?
Yes, some of its programming is available in Canada and Mexico, and NBC also has brand licensing agreements for international channels in countries like South Korea and Germany.

In the optimistic glow preceding the turbulent years of World War II, the 1939–1940 New York World's Fair captivated millions, unfolding its grand vision at what is now Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in Queens, New York, United States. This monumental event etched itself into history not only for its sheer scale but also as the second-most expensive American world's fair ever conceived, surpassed only by the magnificent Louisiana Purchase Exposition held in St. Louis in 1904. It was a global spectacle, drawing participation from numerous countries worldwide and attracting an astonishing attendance of over 44 million visitors across its two seasons, eager to witness its diverse and imaginative exhibits.

Setting itself apart from previous expositions, the 1939–1940 fair was groundbreaking in its forward-looking thematic approach. Its resonant opening slogan, "Dawn of a New Day," perfectly encapsulated its central promise: to offer all visitors an enthralling glimpse into "the world of tomorrow." Attendees were invited to explore innovative technologies, visionary urban planning, and consumer goods that hinted at a brighter, more convenient future, a stark contrast to the lingering memories of the Great Depression.

However, the hopeful vision of "tomorrow" was soon overshadowed by the grim realities of the present. Just four months into the fair's inaugural run in 1939, World War II erupted in Europe, casting a somber pall over the proceedings. The burgeoning global conflict inevitably impacted many exhibits, particularly those housed within the pavilions of countries that soon fell under Axis occupation, forcing their premature closure or alteration. The stark juxtaposition between the fair's promise of peace and progress and the looming specter of war became an indelible part of its narrative.

Following its conclusion in 1940, the majority of the fair's ephemeral structures and installations were either carefully dismantled or utterly demolished. Yet, in a testament to the site's enduring legacy, certain key buildings were remarkably preserved. These retained structures would later serve a vital role, becoming foundational elements for the equally memorable 1964–1965 New York World's Fair, which was held at the very same iconic location, ensuring that the spirit of innovation and global connection continued to thrive in Queens.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1939–1940 New York World's Fair

Where was the 1939–1940 New York World's Fair held?
It took place at Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in Queens, New York, United States.
What was the central theme of the fair?
The fair was uniquely focused on the future, with the slogan "Dawn of a New Day," aiming to showcase "the world of tomorrow."
How many people attended the fair?
Over 44 million people visited its exhibits during its two seasons.
How did World War II impact the fair?
The outbreak of World War II just four months into the fair's run significantly affected many exhibits, especially those from countries under Axis occupation.
What happened to the fairgrounds after 1940?
While many exhibits were demolished, some buildings were preserved and later utilized for the 1964–1965 New York World's Fair, held at the same site.