Charles-Louis Havas founds the Havas news agency in Paris

Background. Charles-Louis Havas, a French writer and translator, established Agence Havas in 1835. Prior to this, he faced financial ruin following the 1825 stock market crash, forcing him to restart his career. The agency was founded to address growing interest in international affairs by translating foreign newspapers for the French press, government, and businesses.

Early Operations. The agency's core business involved translating foreign newspapers and selling these translations to the French national press, local businessmen, and the government. This model recognized the increasing demand for international news in France. The agency's structure allowed it to serve as a central hub for information distribution.

Legacy and Succession. Agence Havas is recognized as the world's oldest news agency. Its descendants include Agence France-Presse (AFP) and the advertising firm Havas. In 1944, following the Liberation of Paris, the agency was reorganized as AFP to succeed Havas, maintaining its status as a major international news service.