Magazines are generally published on a regular schedule and contain a variety of content.

According to Britannica, the earliest magazine appears to have been the German Erbauliche Monaths-Unterredungen (1663–68; "Edifying Monthly Discussions”), started by Johann Rist, a theologian and poet of Hamburg.

Soon after there appeared a group of learned periodicals; the Journal des Sçavans (later Journal des Savants; 1665), started in France by the author Denis de Sallo; the Philosophical Transactions (1665) of the Royal Society in England; and the Giornale de’ letterati (1668), published in Italy and issued by the scholar and ecclesiastic Francesco Nazzari. 

So far various themes had been tried out; they were first brought together convincingly by the English printer Edward Cave, who began to publish The Gentleman’s Magazine in 1731. It was originally a monthly collection of essays and articles culled from elsewhere, hence the term magazine—the first use of the word in this context. 

Rivals and imitators quickly followed, notably the London Magazine (1732–85) and the Scots Magazine (1739–1817; to 1826 published as the Edinburgh Magazine); and, among the increasing number of women’s periodicals, were a Ladies’ Magazine (1749–53) and a Lady’s Magazine (1770–1832). Their progenitor, however, outlived them all and perished only in 1907.

Most of the early periodicals were designed for the few who could afford them and can be fairly called "quality” magazines. In the 1830s, however, less expensive magazines, aimed at a wider public, began to appear. At first these magazines emphasised features that promoted improvement, enlightenment, and family entertainment, but, toward the end of the century, they evolved into popular versions that aimed at providing amusement.

In the 18th Century, when women were expected to participate in social and political life, those magazines aimed primarily at women were relatively robust and stimulating in content; in the 19th, when domesticity became the ideal, they were inclined to be insipid and humourless. After about 1880, magazines began to widen their horizons again.

In 1888, National Geographic Magazine was founded. The publication was filled with scientific content and colourful photos. Some of the magazine’s early revenue was used to fund scientific expeditions and endeavors. Today, the magazine is a highly respected publication that covers science, geology and world events.

Sports Illustrated was first published in 1954. Initially, Sports Illustrated covered activities geared towards wealthy Americans, such as boating and playing polo. In the 1960s, journalist Andre Laguerre became the assistant managing editor of the fledging publication. Thanks to his leadership, the magazine began focusing on all major sports. Today, Sports Illustrated is famous for its sharp sports coverage.

Today, there are thousands of magazines worldwide. Magazines inspire, inform, educate and entertain audiences across the globe. Nearly 600 years after the advent of the printing press, magazines continue to change the nature of things throughout the world.