Worldcon, the World Science Fiction Convention, began in 1939 and became the central annual institution of organized science fiction fandom. Its history includes wartime interruption, postwar revival, Hugo Awards, international expansion, site selection, and changing fan culture.
Table of Contents
| Quick fact | Information |
|---|---|
| First Worldcon | 1939, New York City |
| No Worldcons | 1942-1945, during World War II |
| Major awards | Hugo Awards |
| Governance | World Science Fiction Society and yearly committees |
| Related guide | What Is Worldcon? |
1939 and the Early Years
The first Worldcon in New York made visible what fanzines and clubs had already been building: an organized science fiction fan community.
Postwar Revival and the Hugos
Worldcon resumed after World War II, and the Hugo Awards, first presented in 1953 and annual from 1955, became one of its defining traditions.
International Expansion
Toronto in 1948 made Worldcon international early, and later Worldcons in the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Finland, Ireland, China, New Zealand online, and elsewhere broadened its map.
Modern Worldcon
Modern Worldcons combine literary programming, fan history, Hugo voting, business meetings, art, dealers, exhibits, parties, and local convention culture.
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