New Books in Communications Felix Cowan, "The Kopeck Press: Popular Journalism in Revolutionary Russia, 1908-1918" (U Toronto Press, 2025)
Jun 30, 2025
Felix Cowan, a scholar of revolutionary journalism, explores the fascinating world of affordable tabloids in early 20th-century Russia. He reveals how these publications, sold for just a kopeck, became a voice for the underserved, engaging poorer readers in political discourse. The discussion touches on strategic sensationalism in reporting, showcasing how emotional stories mobilized support for social reforms. Cowan also delves into the gender dynamics of the Kopeck Press, highlighting tensions around women's rights amid the transformative social landscape.
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Researcher Handles Original Papers
- Felix Cowan spent nine months in St. Petersburg handling original Kopeck Press newspapers for research.
- Holding the physical papers created an indescribable experience compared to reading microfilm copies.
Broad, Diverse Readership Insight
- The Kopeck Press reached millions, encompassing a diverse, primarily lower-class audience across cities and towns.
- Their political content exposed this broader readership to progressive ideas, expanding public discourse.
Strategic Sensationalism in Journalism
- Sensationalism in Kopeck papers was strategic, aiming to engage readers emotionally to advocate social reforms.
- Crime stories highlighted urban problems, pushing for sanitary inspections and better housing policies.