William Parks
The most distinguished printer in 18th-century Williamsburg, founder of the Virginia Gazette, and public printer of Virginia.
Core Belief
"Parks believed in the power of the press to inform and influence the public, and in the importance of free and fair discussion of issues. He also believed in the value of hard work and entrepreneurial spirit."
Worldview
Parks saw the world as a place where information was crucial, and where the press could play a vital role in shaping public opinion and contributing to a more informed society. He likely viewed the colonies as a place of opportunity, where hard work and ingenuity could lead to success.
Personality
Parks was an enterprising and influential figure, demonstrating both business acumen and a commitment to free and fair discussion of issues in the newspapers. He was a leader in his field, establishing printing in Virginia and encouraging literature in the colony.
In Their Own Words
"All Persons who have Occasion to buy or sell Houses, Lands, Goods, or Cattle; or have Servants or Slaves Runaway...may have it advertis’d in all these Gazettes printed in one Week, for Three Shillings..."
"And, as these Papers will circulate (as speedily as possible) not only all over This, but also the Neighbouring Colonies, and will probably be read by some Thousands of People, it is very likely they may have the desir’d Effect..."
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