* Different definitions: What constitutes a "channel" varies. Do we mean:
* Physical broadcast channels: The actual frequencies used for over-the-air transmission (e.g., VHF channels 2-13, UHF channels 14-83). This number would be fairly consistent across the US.
* Program channels: The number of distinct programming streams (e.g., ABC, CBS, NBC). This would vary drastically depending on the location and the availability of cable or satellite.
* Varying coverage: Broadcast coverage varied by location. Some areas only had a few channels available, while others had many more.
* Cable and satellite: These were still nascent technologies in 1965, but they started to offer additional channels.
However, we can provide some context:
* Major networks: In 1965, there were three major networks: ABC, CBS, and NBC.
* Early cable: Limited cable television was available in some areas, potentially offering a few additional channels.
* Early satellite: Satellite broadcasting was in its very early stages and not widely available to the public.
Therefore, while we cannot give a specific number of television channels, we can say that the number was significantly smaller than today, with only a few major networks and limited access to other channels.