I can't even watch most shows like that for that very reason. I know I'm "too informed" and those shows are not for me, but it is odd when, for instance, the best-selling single computer of all-time, the Commodore 64, is not even mentioned in passing. It seems that the only companies worth mentioning are those that didn't go away, namely Apple and Microsoft.
The only reason I can think of for not including dead companies is that they're no longer in a position to offer advertising budgets. Apple, Microsoft, and IBM (to some extent, at least) still have a business interest in keeping their names in the public eye. Even Atari (I think it's now owned by infogrames, right?) has some motivation. But Commodore, TI, and Tandy are no longer really in the industry, at least not to the extent where they could help fund or buy ad spots on the programs.
It does seem to be a sad case of history being written by the winners.
I can't even watch most shows like that for that very reason. I know I'm "too informed" and those shows are not for me, but it is odd when, for instance, the best-selling single computer of all-time, the Commodore 64, is not even mentioned in passing. It seems that the only companies worth mentioning are those that didn't go away, namely Apple and Microsoft.
The only reason I can think of for not including dead companies is that they're no longer in a position to offer advertising budgets. Apple, Microsoft, and IBM (to some extent, at least) still have a business interest in keeping their names in the public eye. Even Atari (I think it's now owned by infogrames, right?) has some motivation. But Commodore, TI, and Tandy are no longer really in the industry, at least not to the extent where they could help fund or buy ad spots on the programs.
It does seem to be a sad case of history being written by the winners.
Matt Barton, Managing Editor
Location: St. Cloud, Minnesota, USA
Email: matt@armchairarcade.com