Definition of Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS)

one of the major broadcasting networks; began in 1927 as United Independent Broadcasters, Inc., with a group of 16 independent radio stations. CBS was named by William S. Paley, who purchased the radio network in 1928. He instituted a contract relationship with the affiliated stations whereby CBS would provide them with free programming in return for free radio time to sell for advertising. (This system is still the basis for radio and television networking today.) The CBS Television Network was established in 1948. Currently, CBS employs more than 12,000 people worldwide. The system consists of approximately 200 affiliated television stations with network headquarters located in Los Angeles, California. The CBS Corporation also has a majority interest in Infinity Broadcasting, which owns 163 radio stations. In addition, CBS maintains a presence in several cable television stations: CMT (Country Music), TNN (Nashville Network), and a few regional sports stations