The Email That Ignited YouTube: Jawed Karim’s Vision for a Video Streaming Revolution

Today, YouTube stands as one of the world’s most influential streaming platforms, shaping careers, industries, and popular culture. But what if YouTube had never come to be? Many of us might have found ourselves in entirely different careers.

This email, sent by co-founder Jawed Karim to his colleagues, offers a glimpse into the platform's beginnings. Here’s what Karim had to say.

Jawed Karim’s Vision for YouTube:

“I don’t want to spell out the idea on the insecure email channel. Even if you say the phrase “Video H or N” in public, people will know what you mean, so let’s just call it Video. Don’t say it in combination with the H or N site 🙂"

I just talked to both of you on the phone. I’m 100% convinced that this can be HUGE if executed right. It’s the kind of thing that will be picked up by MTV and Maxim right away.

Timing is perfect because video digital cameras are exploding right now. Our site should be video-only to emphasize the unique aspect of our site.”

This email marked one of the earliest moments in YouTube’s history, capturing Karim’s belief that it would be “huge.” Fast forward to today, and YouTube has indeed become dominant in the market with no close rival.