Definition of press corps

The term "press corps" refers to a group of journalists who cover and report on political and administrative affairs, particularly during major events and ceremonies. The term can be traced back to the early 19th century, when the Prussian army introduced the concept of a "pressekorps," or "press corps," to control and regulate the coverage of military events. The Prussian model was adopted by other European powers, including France and England, who also established their own press corps to oversee and manage the activities of the press during state functions and diplomatic events. The term "press corps" eventually made its way to the United States, where it came into common usage during the Civil War to describe the group of journalists who accompanied the Union Army and reported on its activities. The concept of a press corps has evolved over time, as the role and function of the media has changed. Today, the "press corps" is made up of a diverse group of journalists working in a variety of media, including print, broadcast, and digital news outlets. They continue to play a critical role in covering and documenting political events, providing the public with information about the actions and decisions of those in power.