Robert Morris "Bob" Rosencrans was a cable television industry pioneer who helped create C-SPAN, an American public affairs television network. In addition, he helped launch the television networks BET and MSG, a predecessor of the USA Network.
Panelists discussing the first use of a satellite to distribute cable television programming, the 1975 "Thrilla in Manila" boxing match between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. Left to right: Monty Rifkin, Jack Cole, Hubert Schlafly, Sid Topol, Bob Rosencrans, Gerald M. Levin, Brian Lamb.
Cable-Satellite Public Affairs Network is an American cable and satellite television network, created in 1979 by the cable television industry as a nonprofit public service. It televises proceedings of the United States federal government and other public affairs programming. C-SPAN is a private, nonprofit organization funded by its cable and satellite affiliates. It does not have advertisements on any of its television networks or radio stations, nor does it solicit donations or pledges on-air. The network operates independently; the cable industry and the U.S. Congress have no control over its programming content.
Sen. Robert Byrd (right), C-SPAN's founder Brian Lamb (left) and Paul FitzPatrick flip the switch for C-SPAN2 on June 2, 1986. FitzPatrick was C-SPAN president at the time.
C-SPAN's HDTV coverage of the beginning of the 112th Congress on January 5, 2011. The on-screen design seen here was used from April 19, 2010, to January 17, 2016.
Home page of the C-SPAN Video Library, 2013
Founder Brian Lamb (center) in 2012 with co-CEOs Rob Kennedy (left) and Susan Swain (right)
