The Sphere, 1900-1964 - Key Data

Established in 1900 and in circulation until 1964, The Sphere remained under the ownership of The Illustrated London News (ILN) for most of its existence. Clement Shorter – a former editor of the ILN – founded the publication. From its first issue, it adopted a consciously international outlook, aiming to "hold pictures and thoughts from all lands". Upon its release it was praised as "a striking advance in illustrated journalism" due to the beauty and artistry of its presentation. It soon became popular. This collection includes nearly 160,000 images and almost 4,000 issues from The Sphere, published between January 1900 and June 1964.

The Sphere reflected a patriotic and staunchly pro-establishment position, expressing support for the British monarchy and for the Empire. The publication reported extensively on world events, such as the rise of communism, the First and Second World Wars, and the Arab-Israeli conflict. It printed articles discussing a wide range of prominent personalities from the arts, sciences, and politics – from John Ruskin to Albert Einstein; from Franklin Delano Roosevelt to Golda Meir. It also featured contributions from well-known literary figures such as acclaimed children’s author A. A. Milne and prolific journalist Charles Graves. This collection contains vital material for researchers and students of British society, military history, and the legacies of colonialism.