The History of Telecommunications

1
The History of Telecommunications
2
Objectives Chapter One

• Explain how/why telephone was invented
• Discuss differences between the inventors
• Describe basis of government-established monopoly
• Explain why government wanted to break up
  monopoly
• Describe major changes since break up

3
History of Telecommunications

• Alexander Graham Bell
• First Telephone Companies
• Regulation

4
Evolution of Telecommunications Industry

• Key events
• 1872 WECO formed
• 1876 patent granted to Mr.Bell
• 1882 WECO became sole manufacturer
• 1885 ATT formed long distance arm
• 1899 ATT acquired American Bell
• 1910 Mann-Elkins Act regulate telecomm
• 1913 DOJ antitrust against ATT
• 1918 President Wilson placed tel tel under
  Post Office
• 1921 Graham-Wilkins Act natural monopoly
• 1934 FCC created
• 1935 PUCs established

5
History of Telecommunication

• Competition
• Divestiture Agreement
• Modified Final Judgment (MFJ)

6
History of Telecommunications

• Tariffs
• Description of a service
• Offers rate of charge
• Changes go to regulators
• Public Utility Commissions

7
History of Telecommunications

• Telecom Act of 1996
• Enacted February 1996
• Opened competition for local dial tone service
• Current conditions discussion
• Canadian Marketplace