What is LiveJournal?

LiveJournal is an early social networking and blogging platform launched in 1999. It lets you create your own personal journal or diary online. You can customize your journal’s look and features. 

With LiveJournal, you can: 

  • Write public or private posts 
  • Connect with other users 
  • Join communities about shared interests 
  • Add friends to see their posts 

It’s a place for self-expression and connecting with others. You can share your thoughts, reviews, stories, and more. LiveJournal blends blogging and social networking in a unique way. 

Why was LiveJournal popular?

LiveJournal gained popularity in the early 2000s due to its unique blend of blogging and social networking. You could create a personal online journal while connecting with others who shared your interests. 

The platform’s “friends lists” feature allowed you to build and join communities around shared passions. This was especially valuable for niche groups like the LGBTQ+ community, who used LiveJournal for self-expression and activism. 

LiveJournal’s open-source nature and customizable features appealed to tech-savvy users. You had control over your content’s privacy settings, making it a safe space for creative expression and discussions on sensitive topics. 

The site’s user-friendly interface and diverse range of topics attracted millions of users, creating a vibrant online community before the rise of modern social networks like Facebook. 

What is LiveJournal used for today?

LiveJournal is now owned by a Russian company and offers paid subscription plans. You can still use it for blogging and connecting with small communities. The platform provides features like: 

  • Video and text messaging
  • Custom user pics
  • Friends lists and pages
  • Mobile app for Android users

Some people continue to use LiveJournal for personal journaling and niche interest groups. You can upload photos, create RSS feeds, and interact with other users. While not as popular as it once was, LiveJournal remains an option for those seeking a more traditional blogging platform with social elements.