Final answer:
In the early days of television, most programs were sponsored by corporations, which often integrated their products into the programming. As the industry evolved, the model shifted to commercial breaks, with networks assuming more control over programming distribution to their affiliates. Cable television introduced further changes in the 1980s, offering specialized channels and content.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the early days of television, the production and content of most television programs was the responsibility of corporations that sponsored the shows. During the 1940s and 1950s, these sponsors had significant influence over the programming, as they would often incorporate their products into the storyline, a method that later evolved into commercial breaks rather than direct product placements. This period is contrasted with later developments, such as the 1960s shift toward network programming featuring commercial breaks, and the arrival of cable television in the 1980s, which allowed for more specialized channels like CSPAN and ESPN.
Today, while programming is largely created by television production companies, national networks like CBS and NBC purchase the rights to these programs and distribute them to their local stations or affiliates across the country. However, initially, it was the sponsor-based model that dictated television content.