They were social networks to me. I used BBS’ and AOL, Usenet, LISTSERV the same way I use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, iFunny, TikTok, Youtube comment sections.
If there’s some major fundamental difference that I don’t know about, I’m all ears. And yes, I joined Facebook in 2005 so I know how old it is.
As far as not reading a wall of text? That’s up to you. This isn’t school.