Fake news has long held a role in American history.

The article discusses the history of fake news in America, and it mentions the political aspects of newspaper reporting, the knowing publication of falsehoods, and information about the history of the U.S. newspaper industry. Objectivity and political patronage are examined, along with the relationships between U.S. political parties and various newspapers. Penny press newspapers and sensationalism in news reporting are assessed, as well as the late businessman William Randolph Hearst.