After 31 Years, Left-Wing Online Magazine Salon Shuts Down Before Its Anniversary
Salon announces its closure
Salon said Thursday it would cease publication, with its anniversary only weeks away. The editorial board said the business model could no longer be maintained as independent digital journalism changed over time.
The editors described the decision with sadness and reflected on the publication’s role. They said the work had given writers and editors a place to explore politics, power and overlooked perspectives.
A publication founded online
A small group of journalists established Salon on Nov. 20, 1995. The founders imagined a publication with a distinct voice, interest in the world and confidence that the internet could connect journalism with readers in new ways.
The board characterized Salon as more than a website, describing it as an idea about journalism that emerged when the internet was still largely uncharted. Editors said its coverage helped shape discussion of forces affecting people’s lives.
Dot-com era and lasting legacy
Salon took part in the dot-com boom and launched an anticipated but controversial initial public offering in 1999, the Los Angeles Times reported. The Washington Post reported that the stock price then fell for years.
Editors said they hoped Salon’s contribution would remain significant after its final publication. They credited the outlet with demonstrating possibilities for digital journalism.
Key points
- Salon announced Thursday that it would cease publication after 31 years.
- The outlet said its business model was no longer sustainable amid changes in independent digital journalism.
- Founded in 1995, Salon held an initial public offering in 1999.
- Editors said Salon helped demonstrate the potential of digital journalism.