History of Soap Operas

History of Soap Operas:

• The term 'soap opera' was first developed in the 1930s in the US Depression, it was created to describe radio serials sponsored by soap powder manufacturers. For example Proctor and Gamble.
• It was hoped that by sponsoring radio programmes about women, their families and domestic affairs would help reach an audience of housewives who would add soap powder to their shopping lists. 
• In 1950s the format switched from radio to television expanding the length of time to 25 minutes and then to 60 minutes. From these the vision of selling soap powder to housewives through continuous serials was extended to include a much wider range of products to men and women of various age-groups and status. 
• An example the Soap Opera: The Guiding Light started on the US radio in 1937 and was the first to switch to the television in 1952. 
• The longest running soap opera shown on TV is Coronation Street which was first created and shown on the 9^th December 1960 which is still carrying on today. However, the longest running soap opera ever which includes both radio and television is The Archers. It was first broadcasted on the radio in 1950 and it is still being broadcasted today on BBC Radio 4.
• In the 1980 to 1990s Soap Operas such as EastEnders came under criticism in the British media for being too depressing due to scenes and strands containing domestic violence, drugs, rape and racism. Due to this writers started including a comedy factor to lighten the mood and appeal more to audiences and British media.