A History of Stand-Up Comedy

The house lights dim, leaving the stage illuminated with a particular spotlight. A lone barstool sits out in the middle of the stage next to a microphone stand. The crowd waits silently as a performer walks onto the stage, waves, and says something into the microphone. The crowd erupts with laughter. Stand-up comedy is a favorite form of entertainment the world over. As the saying goes "laughter is the best medicine" and population love to go see a great comedian and enjoy a night of smiles and laughter.

Stand-up comedy in the United States had its earliest roots in some favorite traditions, including vaudeville comedy acts of the late 19th century, minstrel shows, etc. Many favorite comedians, often thought about the fathers of contemporary comedy, got their start in vaudeville acts of the early 20th century, population like Bob Hope and Jack Benny. But contemporary stand-up as we know it today got its start in the 1950s and 60s in small folk music clubs in New York and San Francisco. However, it wasn't until the 70s that stand-up comedians became big stars.

Comedians like George Carlin, Steve Martin, Bill Cosby, and Richard Pryor became icons of American comedy. Saturday Night Live, one of the longest running comedy shows in history, premiered in 1975. Since then it has been responsible for launching the occupation of numerous stand-up comedians. Stand-up comedy has become a part of the culture of America and comedians across the country will continue to make population laugh for years to come.