A broadside is a large sheet of paper printed on one side only, typically with a decorative border. Broadsheets were initially used to post public notices and proclamations and later to print poems, songs, and ballads. In the 16th and 17th centuries, broadsides were a popular way to disseminate news and information. They were often printed on low–quality paper and sold for a penny or less.
With the advent of the printing press, broadsides became a cheap and easy way to reach a broad audience. Printers would set up shops near busy thoroughfares and sell their wares to passersby. Many broadsides were never bound into books and have since been lost; however, some survive and provide a valuable glimpse into the everyday lives of people in the past.
Today, broadside can refer to a large sheet of paper or a printed poem or song. Broadside poems are typically printed in a limited edition and are collectible items. In the digital age, some poets have begun printing their work on large printers and selling it as art.
Broadside is an integral part of the history of books and printing. It allows a large amount of text to be printed on a single sheet of paper. For example, it allows for disseminating information about new books and releases. Hence, this makes it ideal for printing announcements, speeches, and other large blocks of text. It also helps authors to connect with their readers and create a community around their work.
Broadside is also relatively inexpensive to print, making it a good option for businesses and organizations that need to print a lot of text without spending much money.