The Independent was founded in 1986 by a group of British journalists, including Andreas Whittam Smith, Stephen Glover, and Matthew Symonds. The idea behind the publication was to create a new, independent national newspaper that would provide a fresh perspective on news and current affairs, free from the influence of political parties or corporate interests. The founders saw an opportunity to fill a gap in the British media landscape and offer readers a more impartial and analytical approach to journalism. Today, The Independent is owned by the Russian businessman and former KGB officer Alexander Lebedev. The Independent covers a wide range of news topics, including politics, business, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. While the publication's primary focus is on news and events in the United Kingdom, it also provides extensive coverage of international affairs, with a particular emphasis on Europe and the United States. Based in London, The Independent has a team of journalists and contributors from around the world who bring their expertise and global perspectives to the publication, offering in-depth reporting and analysis on a diverse range of issues. One interesting fact: Despite its relatively small size compared to some of the larger British media outlets, The Independent has had a significant impact on the country's journalism landscape. The publication's commitment to independent and impartial reporting, as well as its willingness to challenge the status quo, has earned it a loyal readership and a reputation for high-quality, thought-provoking journalism.