**Historical Background and Ownership Changes:**
– The Atlantic was founded in 1857 by Moses Dresser Phillips.
– Notable writers like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Harriet Beecher Stowe contributed to the magazine.
– Ownership changed hands over the years, from Ticknor and Fields to Ellery Sedgwick, Mortimer Zuckerman, David G. Bradley, and finally Laurene Powell Jobs.
– The magazine has seen various editorial leadership changes, with individuals like James Bennet and Jeffrey Goldberg serving as editor-in-chief.
**Political Stance and Endorsements:**
– The Atlantic has a history of supporting progressive causes, such as abolition and civil rights.
– Notable endorsements include those of Abraham Lincoln, Lyndon B. Johnson, Hillary Clinton, and Joe Biden.
– The magazine has been critical of political figures like Donald Trump and has evolved its political stance over time.
**Achievements and Impact on Journalism:**
– The Atlantic has won numerous awards, including Magazine of the Year and Pulitzer Prizes for feature writing.
– It is known for its in-depth reporting, analysis, and commentary on various topics.
– The publication has influenced public discourse and opinion through its investigative journalism and commentary.
**Digital Transformation and Content Evolution:**
– The Atlantic has undergone a digital transformation, launching digital platforms like TheAtlantic.com and The Atlantic Wire.
– It has explored new content formats like video aggregators and expanded its coverage areas to include politics and policy.
– The magazine has faced challenges like shutting down The Atlantic Wire due to profitability issues.
**Controversies, Retractions, and Legal Issues:**
– The Atlantic has faced controversies over sponsored content and articles with credibility concerns.
– It has retracted articles, settled legal disputes, and cut ties with contributors over serious allegations.
– The magazine has apologized for controversial ads and articles that caused public backlash.