The Toronto Star’s journey began in 1892 when it was founded as the Evening Star. During this early phase, the newspaper faced numerous challenges as it sought to establish itself in Toronto’s bustling media landscape. Ownership changed hands multiple times, with different individuals and groups attempting to steer the publication toward success. Despite these tumultuous beginnings, the Evening Star showed promise as a platform for journalism in the growing Canadian city.

Navigating Toronto’s Business Landscape: The Toronto Star’s Small Business Club

The Toronto Star, a renowned publication with a rich history, has long been a trusted source for business articles related to small businesses in Toronto. Within its pages, the Toronto Star Business Club serves as a valuable resource for entrepreneurs and owners of small businesses in Toronto. The Toronto Star’s dedication to covering the intricate dynamics of the local Toronto business scene has made it a cornerstone of the city’s business community.

Whether you’re looking for insights into starting a small business in Toronto or seeking guidance on thriving in the competitive Toronto business landscape, the Toronto Star Small Business section is your go-to destination. As a member of the Star Club, you gain access to exclusive content and expert advice, enhancing your understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by small businesses in Toronto. With the Toronto Star as your trusted companion, you’re well-equipped to navigate the ever-evolving world of small business in Toronto.

Transformation Under Joseph E. Atkinson (1899-1948)

The pivotal moment in the Toronto Star’s history came in 1899 when Joseph E. Atkinson assumed leadership. Under his guidance, Atkinson turned the newspaper into a dominant force in Toronto’s media landscape. Affectionately nicknamed “Holy Joe,” Atkinson not only expanded the paper’s reach but also defined its identity as a staunch advocate for social causes. This era marked the newspaper’s shift from a struggling publication to a prominent platform for progressive journalism, leading the charge on issues such as old age pensions, unemployment insurance, and healthcare.

The Atkinson Principles: A Social Legacy

Joseph E. Atkinson’s visionary leadership transformed the Toronto Star into a platform for advocating progressive ideals. Discover how Atkinson’s unwavering commitment to social causes laid the foundation for the newspaper’s enduring legacy.

A Charitable Legacy

Joseph E. Atkinson’s lasting impact on the Toronto Star is highlighted by his decision in 1948 to transfer ownership of the newspaper to a charitable organization shortly before his passing. This significant choice ensures that the newspaper’s profits continue to be dedicated to fostering social, scientific, and economic reforms that benefit the residents of Ontario.

Guiding Principles for a Better Canada

The “Atkinson Principles” have been the guiding compass for the Toronto Star’s editorial stance for many decades. These principles embody core values that include advocating for a strong and united Canada, championing social justice, upholding individual liberties, promoting community and civic engagement, defending the rights of working people, and emphasizing the essential role of government. These principles remain central to the Toronto Star’s mission, aimed at contributing to the betterment of Canada through its journalism.


Ventures and Expansion (1922-1981)

During the leadership of Joseph E. Atkinson, the Toronto Star embarked on various media ventures. Notable among these were the Star Weekly magazine and the radio station CFCA, which operated from 1922 to 1933. These ventures allowed the Star to expand its presence in the Canadian media landscape. However, government regulations ultimately led to the closure of CFCA, but the newspaper continued to supply content to other stations. This period of expansion and diversification marked the Toronto Star’s commitment to providing diverse content to its readers.


The Modern Era: The Toronto Star (1971-Present)

In 1971, the newspaper underwent a rebranding, emerging as The Toronto Star. This transformation marked the beginning of a modern era for the publication. The Toronto Star moved its headquarters to a contemporary office tower at One Yonge Street, a symbolic shift reflecting the newspaper’s evolving identity. During this period, the Toronto Star expanded its offerings by introducing a Sunday edition in 1973 and a morning edition in 1981, catering to the diverse needs of its readers.


Evolving in the Digital Age (2023 and Beyond)

Fast-forwarding to 2023, the Toronto Star faces new challenges and opportunities in the digital age. In an era marked by rapidly evolving media landscapes, the newspaper continues to adapt to meet the changing needs of its readers. With a commitment to delivering news and stories that resonate with a diverse national audience, the Toronto Star remains a vital part of Canada’s media landscape. Its enduring influence on journalism and commitment to its principles ensure that it continues to play a significant role in shaping the nation’s media narrative.

Charting the Toronto Star’s Remarkable Evolution: A Six-Part Exploration

Delve into the captivating history and evolution of the Toronto Star, a cornerstone of Canadian journalism. Explore six key chapters that trace the newspaper’s journey, from its early days as the Evening Star to the transformative era under Joseph E. Atkinson.

  • The Evening Star (1892-1900)
  • Transformation under Joseph E. Atkinson (1899-1948)
  • The Atkinson Principles: A Social Legacy
  • Ventures and Expansion (1922-1981)
  • The Modern Era: The Toronto Star (1971-Present)
  • Evolving in the Digital Age (2023 and Beyond)