Time magazine collection

Time magazine, founded in 1923, has chronicled influential figures and world-shaping events through iconic covers and the annual 'Person of the Year' feature.

About this subject

Time magazine stands as one of the most influential weekly publications globally, instantly recognizable by its red-bordered covers and the annual 'Person of the Year' feature. Founded in 1923 by Briton Hadden and Henry Luce, it was the first weekly news magazine in the United States, pioneering a new journalism format that combined concise analysis with a compelling narrative style. Over nearly a century, Time has chronicled events from the Great Depression to the climate crisis, covering wars, revolutions, and scientific breakthroughs.

The Time cover is a cultural icon. Its red border, introduced in 1927, became instantly recognizable. The magazine also popularized dedicating special issues to notable figures such as Albert Einstein, Martin Luther King Jr., and Mother Teresa. The annual 'Person of the Year' selection, starting in 1927, generates global debate and anticipation, honoring individuals who most influenced the year, for better or worse. In 1999, Time named Albert Einstein the 'Person of the Century.'

In Brazil, Time has a history of political and cultural coverage, highlighting leaders like Getúlio Vargas and Juscelino Kubitschek, as well as icons like Pelé and Oscar Niemeyer. The magazine also influenced Brazilian journalism, serving as a model for publications like Veja and IstoÉ. Collecting old Time issues is a widespread hobby, as they offer a visual and textual record of the 20th and 21st centuries, sold in secondhand bookstores and specialized websites. Some covers, such as those announcing the Moon landing in 1969 or the fall of the Berlin Wall, are true historical relics.

Interestingly, Time was among the first magazines to use photography as a central cover element, an innovation that helped define modern visual journalism. Additionally, the publication maintains accessible digital archives, allowing researchers and enthusiasts to explore decades of content. In 2017, Time was acquired by Salesforce, but its cultural relevance remains unchanged, continuing to shape global discussions and document history in real time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the Brazilians that have appeared on the cover of Time?

Several Brazilians have been on Time's cover, including Pelé, Oscar Niemeyer, Ayrton Senna, Dilma Rousseff, and Jair Bolsonaro, reflecting Brazil's relevance in various fields.

What is the most famous Time magazine cover?

Among the most famous are the cover with Albert Einstein as 'Person of the Century' (1999), the Moon landing cover (1969), and the 'We Are All Ukrainians' cover (2022) in support of Ukraine.

How can I purchase old issues of Time?

Old issues can be found in secondhand bookstores, auction sites like eBay, or specialized vintage magazine shops. Time also offers prints of historic covers on its website.