The Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS) was established in 1929. It was only a radio broadcast network at the time. The original company went through several changes of ownership, focus and management before becoming CBS.
CBS was once at the forefront of broadcast systems, earning it the moniker of "The Tiffany Network" in the industry. It launched the career of famous newscaster Edward R. Murrow. Historically memorable and innovative shows like "The Ed Sullivan Show," "Gunsmoke" and "I Love Lucy" originated on CBS in the 1950s.
After going through several changes in ownership and creative direction, which caused the network to struggle in the marketplace, CBS made a dramatic comeback in the 1970s, when sitcoms were all the rage. Record-breaking shows like "M*A*S*H", "All in the Family" and "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" were all launched and nurtured to success by CBS.