Ebenezer Watson

Ebenezer Watson (1744–1777) was an influential American newspaper publisher, best known for his role in the early American press as the publisher of the Connecticut Courant, which is now known as the Hartford Courant.

Early Life

Ebenezer Watson was born in 1744. Little is known about his early life, but he became involved in the printing and publishing industry at a young age.

Career

Watson took over the publication of the Connecticut Courant in 1771, following the death of its founder, Thomas Green. Under Watson's leadership, the newspaper became a prominent voice in the American colonies, particularly during the American Revolutionary War.

Contributions to Journalism

Watson's tenure at the Connecticut Courant was marked by his commitment to the principles of free press and his support for the American Revolution. The newspaper provided critical coverage of the events leading up to the revolution, including the Boston Tea Party and the Intolerable Acts.

Death and Legacy

Ebenezer Watson died in 1777, but his legacy continued through the Connecticut Courant, which remains one of the oldest continuously published newspapers in the United States. His contributions to journalism and the American revolutionary cause are remembered as pivotal in shaping public opinion during a critical period in American history.

See Also

• Hartford Courant
• American Revolutionary War
• History of American newspapers

References

• "History of the Hartford Courant." Hartford Courant.
• "American Journalism: A History of Newspapers in the United States through 250 Years." Frank Luther Mott.