National Post Ownership: Conrad Black's Founding, Divestment, and Current Status

Does Conrad Black own the National Post?

Conrad Black, while a foundational figure and original owner of the National Post, does not currently own the newspaper. His ownership and control significantly diminished following legal and financial challenges in the early 2000s, with the publication now owned by Postmedia Network.

Founding the National Post

The National Post was launched on October 27, 1998, by Conrad Black's Hollinger Inc. Black, a prominent Canadian-born British peer and business magnate, envisioned a national newspaper that would offer a conservative voice and compete directly with established publications like The Globe and Mail. The paper quickly established itself as a significant player in the Canadian media landscape, known for its distinct editorial stance and comprehensive coverage.

Black's Initial Ownership and Vision

Conrad Black's Hollinger Inc. was the primary owner and driving force behind the National Post at its inception. Black's vision was to create a high-quality, intellectually rigorous newspaper that reflected his conservative political and economic views. Under his leadership, the National Post aimed to challenge prevailing media narratives and provide an alternative perspective on national and international affairs. His personal involvement was extensive, shaping the paper's early editorial direction and brand identity.

Legal Challenges and Divestment

Conrad Black's direct ownership and control over the National Post began to unravel in the early 2000s due to a series of significant legal and financial challenges.

• Corporate Scrutiny: Investigations into financial dealings at Hollinger International, the parent company, led to accusations of fraud and misuse of company assets.
• Loss of Control: As these investigations progressed, Black was progressively stripped of his executive powers and eventually forced to divest his shares in Hollinger International, which in turn held the National Post.
• Sale of Assets: The newspaper assets, including the National Post, were eventually sold off as Hollinger International sought to resolve its financial and legal difficulties. This marked the end of Black's direct ownership.

Current Ownership of the National Post

Following Black's divestment and the subsequent restructuring of media assets, the National Post has changed hands several times. Currently, the National Post is owned by Postmedia Network Inc. Postmedia is one of Canada's largest media companies, owning numerous newspapers and digital platforms across the country. While Conrad Black no longer has any ownership stake, he has occasionally contributed columns to the paper as a commentator.

Legacy and Influence

Despite no longer owning the National Post, Conrad Black's influence on its founding and early direction is undeniable. He established its initial editorial philosophy and brand. The paper continues to operate as a significant voice in Canadian journalism, though its ownership and management are entirely separate from Black's personal or corporate interests today. The National Post stands as a testament to his ambition to shape Canada's media landscape.