Collection: JET MAGAZINES

The Legacy of Jet Magazine

This collection showcases the powerful and enduring legacy of Jet magazine, a groundbreaking American weekly digital publication focused on news, culture, and entertainment within the African-American community. Founded in 1951 by John H. Johnson as "The Weekly Negro News Magazine," Jet emerged as a vital platform for Black representation in a media landscape that often overlooked or misrepresented African Americans.

For over six decades, Jet fearlessly chronicled pivotal moments in Black history, most notably the Civil Rights Movement, bringing events like the murder of Emmett Till and the Montgomery bus boycott to national attention through impactful journalism and uncensored photography. Beyond activism, Jet celebrated Black life in its entirety, featuring entertainment news, fashion and beauty tips, political coverage, and iconic features like "Beauty of the Week," which challenged Eurocentric beauty standards and offered a platform for Black women's self-expression.

From its early digest-sized print format to its evolution as a digital magazine, Jet has remained a crucial voice, adapting to the times while staying true to its mission of providing authentic and comprehensive coverage of the African-American experience. This collection offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural significance of Jet, a magazine that truly served as a "Negro bible" and continues to shape conversations today.