Who started Broadway?

The start of Broadway can be traced back to the early 18th century when the first theaters were built in New York City. One of the first notable theaters was the John Street Theatre, which opened in 1767. However, it wasn't until the late 19th century that Broadway truly began to take shape as a major theatrical district. This period, known as the "Golden Age of Broadway," was characterized by the construction of numerous theaters along Broadway and the rise of prominent producers such as David Belasco and Florenz Ziegfeld. These individuals played a significant role in shaping the identity and success of Broadway as a center for live theater and entertainment.