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In 1817, 22-year old James Harper and his 20-year old brother, John, set up a small printing firm in New York City called J. & J. Harper. Joined later by their younger brothers, Joseph, Wesley and Fletcher, the firm became the largest book publisher in the United States by 1825. The name was changed to Harper & Brothers in 1833 and survives today as Harper-Collins. "Harper's" Magazine (frequently referred to as just "Harper's") is the oldest continuously published magazine in the United States. "Harper's Monthly" made its debut in June 1850. The initial press run of 7,500 copies sold out immediately, and within six months circulation had reached 50,000. The venture was a great success and in 1857 the company began publishing "Harper's Weekly". |