Why the Huffpost?

This is part of our series on blogs that inspire us to continue blogging. Not only was this blog founded by a woman when it was more difficult for women to succeed but it has grown exponentially over the years. We included it for inspiration to us when we are unable to continue blogging.

The Huffington Post, now known as HuffPost, was founded in 2005 by Arianna Huffington, Kenneth Lerer, and Jonah Peretti. It quickly became a prominent online news and opinion platform with a focus on progressive and liberal viewpoints. Here is a brief history, including some inspirational moments:

1. Founding and Growth (2005-2011)

HuffPost was launched in May 2005 as a liberal alternative to conservative news outlets. Its innovative approach involved a mix of news aggregation, blogging, and original reporting.

The platform gained popularity rapidly, and its interactive and engaging format contributed to its success.

2. Arianna Huffington’s Leadership

Arianna Huffington, the co-founder and editor-in-chief, played a crucial role in shaping HuffPost’s editorial direction.

Her strong editorial leadership and commitment to providing a platform for diverse voices helped establish HuffPost as a prominent player in online journalism.

3. Coverage of the 2008 U.S. Presidential Election

HuffPost gained widespread attention during the 2008 U.S. presidential election. Its coverage, featuring a blend of news articles, blog posts, and user-generated content, reflected the evolving landscape of digital journalism.

The platform’s real-time updates and interactive features resonated with a new generation of news consumers.

4. Impactful Bloggers and Contributors

HuffPost became known for its diverse range of bloggers and contributors, including celebrities, academics, and everyday people.

This approach democratized the news landscape, allowing individuals from various backgrounds to share their perspectives and stories. This commitment to inclusivity inspired a more participatory form of journalism.

5. AOL Merger (2011)

In 2011, AOL acquired The Huffington Post for $315 million.

This marked a significant milestone in the evolution of digital media, showcasing the value of online news outlets. The merger allowed HuffPost to expand its reach and resources, contributing to its ongoing growth.

6. Launch of HuffPost Impact and HuffPost Good News

HuffPost Impact, launched in 2010, aimed to highlight positive news stories and inspire social change. Additionally, HuffPost Good News was introduced to emphasize uplifting and inspirational content.

These initiatives demonstrated HuffPost’s commitment to providing a balanced and constructive news platform.

7. Pulitzer Prize (2012)

In 2012, HuffPost won its first Pulitzer Prize for David Wood’s 10-part series “Beyond the Battlefield,” which focused on the challenges faced by wounded American military personnel returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan.

This recognition underscored the platform’s ability to produce impactful investigative journalism.

8. Shift to Visual Storytelling and Video

In response to changing media consumption habits, HuffPost underwent a shift towards visual storytelling and video content.

This adaptation showcased the platform’s commitment to staying relevant in the evolving digital landscape.

Conclusion

Founded in 2005 by Arianna Huffington, this blog covers a wide range of topics, including politics, entertainment, and lifestyle. It was acquired by AOL in 2011 for $315 million, and its estimated revenue is $40 million.

HuffPost’s history reflects its role as a trailblazer in digital journalism, breaking traditional molds and experimenting with innovative storytelling formats. While it has faced challenges and changes over the years, HuffPost has consistently sought to inspire, inform, and engage its audience through a combination of news reporting, opinion pieces, and socially conscious content.

Read the HuffPost here