Unraveling the tapestry of time to discover the oldest fandoms is like embarking on a thrilling adventure through the annals of human imagination. From the time-honored tales of Sherlock Holmes to the modern-day frenzy of BTS’s ARMY, the history of fandoms is a fascinating journey that spans centuries. Join us as we delve into the ancient roots of fandom and explore the captivating evolution of fan culture across the ages. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious about the phenomenon, get ready to be enthralled by the rich tapestry of human creativity and passion.
Key Takeaways
- The oldest fandom is widely considered to be the literary detective Sherlock Holmes, with fans holding public demonstrations of mourning after Holmes was “killed off” in 1893.
- Some of the first fan fiction is believed to have been created by Sherlock Holmes fans as early as about 1897 to 1902.
- Robust early online fandoms developed for shows such as The X-Files and Seinfeld in the late 1990s through newsgroups, forums, alt.tv subgroups, Geocities user sites, and the Angelfire web ring.
- BTS’s ARMY has been named the world’s most innocent fandom, making its debut in July 2013 and referring to themselves as Adorable Representative M.C. for Youth.
- The biggest fandoms in the world include Potterheads (Harry Potter), Warsies (Star Wars), ARMY (BTS), Directioners (One Direction), F.R.I.E.N.D.S., Sherlockians (Sherlock Holmes), Thronies (Games of Thrones), and Fanpires (Twilight).
- The concept of retelling stories and fanfiction has been around for centuries, with examples such as Milton’s Paradise Lost (1667) being considered some of the oldest fanfiction.
The Ancient Roots of Fandom: A Journey Through Time
Fandoms, passionate communities of individuals united by their shared enthusiasm for a particular subject, have existed for centuries, transcending time and geographical boundaries. From literary classics to modern pop culture phenomena, fandoms have played a significant role in shaping cultural landscapes and fostering connections among people from all walks of life. In this exploration, we will delve into the origins of fandoms, tracing their evolution from the earliest known examples to the vibrant online communities of today.
Sherlock Holmes: The Birth of Modern Fandom
The literary world witnessed the birth of modern fandom in the late 19th century with the iconic detective Sherlock Holmes. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s creation captivated readers worldwide, inspiring an outpouring of devotion that extended beyond the pages of his books. In 1893, when Doyle seemingly killed off Holmes in “The Final Problem,” fans reacted with an unprecedented display of grief, holding public demonstrations of mourning and demanding the character’s return. This fervent fandom laid the foundation for the organized fan culture we see today.
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Early Fan Fiction: A Creative Expression of Fandom
The Sherlock Holmes fandom also gave rise to one of the earliest forms of fan fiction, a creative expression of fandom that reimagines and expands upon existing stories. As early as 1897, fans began crafting their own tales featuring the beloved detective, continuing his adventures and exploring new facets of his character. This practice, which would later become a staple of fandom culture, allowed fans to actively engage with the world of Sherlock Holmes, shaping its narrative and extending its reach.
The Internet Age: Fandoms Flourish in the Digital Realm
The advent of the internet in the late 20th century revolutionized fandom, providing a platform for fans to connect, share, and create like never before. Online forums, social media platforms, and dedicated websites became virtual gathering places for fans to discuss their favorite shows, movies, books, and music, fostering a sense of community and shared passion. Fandoms expanded beyond traditional boundaries, uniting individuals from different countries and cultures under a common interest.
The X-Files and Seinfeld: Early Online Fandoms
In the late 1990s, the television shows The X-Files and Seinfeld emerged as early examples of robust online fandoms. Fans of these shows flocked to newsgroups, forums, and dedicated websites to engage in discussions, share theories, and create fan art and videos. These online communities provided a space for fans to connect with like-minded individuals, forming a virtual network of shared enthusiasm that transcended geographical limitations.
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BTS’s ARMY: A Global Fandom Phenomenon
In the realm of modern fandom, BTS’s ARMY stands as a shining example of a global fandom phenomenon. This devoted fan base, supporting the South Korean boy band BTS, has garnered international recognition for its unwavering loyalty, creativity, and positive impact on the world. ARMY has broken records, organized charitable initiatives, and demonstrated an unwavering commitment to spreading love and positivity. Their collective efforts have cemented BTS’s status as a global sensation and redefined the boundaries of fandom engagement.
The Biggest Fandoms in the World: A testament to Fandom’s Reach
The world of fandoms is vast and diverse, encompassing a wide range of interests and passions. Among the biggest fandoms globally, we find Potterheads (Harry Potter), Warsies (Star Wars), ARMY (BTS), Directioners (One Direction), F.R.I.E.N.D.S., Sherlockians (Sherlock Holmes), Thronies (Games of Thrones), and Fanpires (Twilight). These fandoms represent the immense power of shared passion, capable of uniting millions of individuals from all corners of the globe.
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Conclusion: Fandoms – A testament to the Human Spirit
Fandoms, in their myriad forms, stand as a testament to the enduring power of human connection. They provide a sense of belonging and shared purpose, fostering creativity, passion, and a profound appreciation for the things we love. Whether it’s the literary world of Sherlock Holmes, the captivating narratives of television shows, or the infectious energy of pop music, fandoms remind us of the universal need for connection and the boundless capacity of the human spirit to find joy and inspiration in shared experiences.
What is considered the oldest fandom?
The literary detective Sherlock Holmes is widely considered to be the oldest fandom, with fans holding public demonstrations of mourning after Holmes was “killed off” in 1893.
What is believed to be some of the first fan fiction created?
Some of the first fan fiction is believed to have been created by Sherlock Holmes fans as early as about 1897 to 1902.
What are some examples of early online fandoms?
Robust early online fandoms developed for shows such as The X-Files and Seinfeld in the late 1990s through newsgroups, forums, alt.tv subgroups, Geocities user sites, and the Angelfire web ring.
What is the most innocent fandom in the world?
BTS’s ARMY has been named the world’s most innocent fandom, making its debut in July 2013 and referring to themselves as Adorable Representative M.C. for Youth.
What are some of the biggest fandoms in the world?
Some of the biggest fandoms in the world include Potterheads (Harry Potter), Warsies (Star Wars), ARMY (BTS), Directioners (One Direction), F.R.I.E.N.D.S., Sherlockians (Sherlock Holmes), Thronies (Games of Thrones), and Fanpires (Twilight).
