Brief History of Oz Magazine
School Kids Edition of OZ
A brief History of Oz Magazine.
Take me to the Schoolkids Edition of OZ - Schoolkids Edition of Oz (as published)
Take me to the brief history of trial, and what happen next - Oz verses The Establishment, and bent coppers (police)
The Little Red Schoolbook is mentioned in the texts. See it here (or buy on Amazon) - The Little Red Schoolbook
Oz magazine was a counterculture publication that played a significant role in the cultural and political landscape of the 1960s and 1970s, particularly in the United Kingdom and Australia. Here is a brief history of Oz magazine:
Origins: Oz magazine was founded in 1963 by Richard Neville, Richard Walsh, and Martin Sharp in Sydney, Australia. The magazine started as a satirical and alternative publication that challenged conventional norms and institutions.
Australian Edition: The early issues of Oz were focused on humour, satire, and anti-establishment commentary. It quickly gained popularity among young people in Australia for its irreverent content and anti-authoritarian stance.
Move to London: In 1966, the founders of Oz, Richard Neville, and Martin Sharp, moved to London and established an English edition of the magazine. This marked a significant shift in the magazine's focus, as it began to cover more political and social issues.
Legal Troubles: Oz magazine gained notoriety for its provocative content, including explicit language, illustrations, and discussions of drugs and sexuality. In 1964, the Australian edition faced obscenity charges, and the subsequent trial led to convictions but was later overturned on appeal.
The School Kids Issue: One of the most famous incidents in Oz's history was the publication of the "School Kids" issue in 1970. It featured an underground comic strip called "Oz Obscenity Trial" that satirised the 1971 trial of the magazine's editors on obscenity charges. The issue was deemed obscene by the authorities and led to the arrest and imprisonment of the editors.
Influence and Legacy: Despite its legal troubles, Oz magazine had a profound influence on the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 1970s. It played a role in shaping the alternative press and challenging established norms, including censorship and conservatism.
Closure: The magazine ceased publication in 1973. The legal battles and financial strain took a toll on the publication, and the editors decided to end its run.
Cultural Impact: Oz magazine is remembered for its innovative design, satirical content, and its role in advocating for freedom of speech and expression. It was a platform for artists, writers, and activists to voice their opinions and push boundaries.
Post-Oz Careers: After the magazine's closure, its founders and contributors continued to work in various fields, including journalism, art, and activism. Richard Neville, for example, became a respected author and commentator.
In summary, Oz magazine was a pioneering counterculture publication that emerged in Australia and later expanded to London. It challenged societal norms, pushed boundaries, and became a symbol of the cultural and political upheaval of the 1960s and 1970s. Despite its legal challenges and eventual closure, its legacy as a platform for alternative voices and free expression endures.