The story of a newspaper

It started life in the 1780s as a four-page advertising sheet. It wasn't even called The Times to begin with. Its first proprietor went to gaol for libel. It prospered so quickly that by the 1820s it was considered the leading journal in Europe, and could be described as 'the greatest organ of temporary opinion in the world.' It moulded policies, toppled governments, attacked establishments, whether political or military.

Like all great institutions it was sometimes dynamic, sometimes fossilised; but when its fortunes ebbed there were always remarkable journalists, or remarkable proprietors, at hand to rescue it. It has survived 188 tempestuous years, is still thought of in many parts of the world as the flag, as Britain; and hasn't finished with history yet.