The Philadelphia Inquirer is founded as The Pennsylvania Inquirer

Background. The Pennsylvania Inquirer was established in Philadelphia, the most populous city in Pennsylvania. Founded on June 1, 1829, it is recognized as the third-oldest surviving daily newspaper in the United States. The paper's origins are tied to the city's status as a major urban center, where it entered a market already occupied by numerous established dailies.

Founding and Early Editorial Stance. Printer John R. Walker and John Norvell, former editor of the Aurora & Gazette, founded the paper. The first issue's editorial pledged to protect the rights of minorities and support President Andrew Jackson, along with home industries and internal improvements. This initial stance defined the newspaper's early political and economic orientation in the Philadelphia market.

Financial Challenges and Ownership Change. Six months after its founding, lack of funds forced Walker and Norvell to sell the newspaper to Jesper Harding amid competition from eight established daily newspapers. At an unspecified point in 1829, the paper moved from its original location between Front and 2nd streets to between 2nd and 3rd streets. Under Harding, it briefly operated as an afternoon paper before returning to a morning format in January 1830.