For decades, truckers and amateur enthusiasts alike have relied on CB radio to stay in touch, share information, and exchange witty banter across long distances. These days, CB radio is being edged out by newer communications equipment. However, you’ll still find a sizable percentage of truckers who wouldn’t think of hitting the roads without a CB radio (or two or three) in their cabs.
Early History of CB Radio
In 1945, as World War II was winding down, an inventor by the name of Al Gross came up with the idea for the Citizens Band (CB) radio. The communication device quickly became popular among blue-collar workers, who used it to communicate with their coworkers. After about a decade, the technology became affordable enough for many more people to jump on the CB radio trend.
The Heyday of the CB Radio
Although CB radio clubs had been formed in the 1960s, the popularity of the device really took off in the 1970s, thanks to the oil crisis. To cope with the gasoline shortage, the U.S. government imposed a nationwide 55 mile per hour speed limit. Motorists began using CB radio to inform each other of where local speed traps were. They also used the device for more legitimate purposes: To let other drivers know which gas stations had gas available.
CB Radio in Popular Culture
Naturally, CB radio began making appearances in movies and popular songs. Perhaps the best-known movie to prominently feature CB radio was Smokey and the Bandit, starring Burt Reynolds. Celebrities also began using CB radio off the screen. Mel Blanc, a voice actor, typically used the handles Daffy and Bugs while on the air. Even First Lady Betty Ford joined in the fun, using the handle First Mama.
DSW Drivers invests in modern technology but also embraces the good old-fashioned values that built the trucking industry. Our trucking company, headquartered in Tucson, is fully committed to giving each of our drivers the support they need to build a successful career on the road. Will you join us? Call (888) 266-7534.
