England's first printed ad promoted a book

History
England's first printed ad promoted a book

In 1477, William Caxton printed England's first advertisement, a handbill promoting his book, which heralded the era of commercial printing and mass communication.

In 1477, William Caxton, England's first printer, created the country's inaugural printed advertisement. Just a year after introducing the movable-type press, Caxton produced a simple handbill to promote his book, 'The Sarum Ordinal.' This 8x11-inch flyer announced the religious service book's availability, detailing its content and price.

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