As the first and largest African-exclusive television network in the United States, BET had tremendous influence on the African community.
However, because most of its users were below the poverty line, BET was not favored by advertisers.
Naturally, its financial situation was also quite dire at one point.
All of this changed after 1992, when the Los Angeles riots, sparked by the "Rodney King" case, completely altered the landscape.
The founder, Robert Johnson, seeing the immense destructive power when his own race and news were combined, began to change his business strategy.
Essentially, he dug up some very influential news figures within the African community.
Then, he sought government financial assistance.
When demands were met, these individuals would announce on television that "the situation with racial discrimination is being improved."
Otherwise, it was, "We're going to take to the streets to express our opinions."
