New York City, often referred to as the “Big Apple,” is a metropolis renowned for its vibrant culture, towering skyscrapers, and bustling streets. But have you ever wondered why New York is called the Big Apple? This article looks into the historical roots of this famous nickname.
Early References and Horse Racing Origins
The term “Big Apple” was first popularized in the 1920s by John J. Fitz Gerald, a New York Morning Telegraph reporter. His initial usage of the term was in reference to New York’s racetracks. Fitz Gerald heard the term used by African American stable hands in New Orleans, referring to New York City’s racetracks as “the big apple,” symbolizing the ultimate prize in horse racing. His earliest known usage in print dates back to May 3, 1921.
Key Points:
- The term originated from African American stable hands in New Orleans.
- It was first used in print in 1921 by John J. Fitz Gerald.
Jazz Age and the Growing Popularity
By the late 1920s and into the 1930s, the nickname “Big Apple” started being used by other New York writers beyond the context of horse racing. It became a part of the city’s jazz culture, with the phrase used to describe New York City, especially Harlem, as the jazz capital of the world. The term was further popularized by a song and a dance named “The Big Apple” during this era.
Key Points:
- The nickname expanded beyond horse racing into the jazz culture.
- Harlem was referred to as the jazz capital of the world, known as the Big Apple.
Revival in the 1970s
Despite its popularity, the nickname faded and was considered somewhat outdated by the late 1950s. However, in the early 1970s, during New York City’s fiscal crisis, the nickname was revived as part of a successful tourism campaign. This revival was led by Charles Gillett, the president of the New York Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the advertising firm Ogilvy & Mather. The campaign aimed to boost the city’s image and promote it as a tourist destination. Since then, “Big Apple” has remained a popular and enduring nickname for New York City.
Key Points:
- The nickname was revived in the 1970s to promote tourism.
- The campaign led by Charles Gillett and Ogilvy & Mather was successful.
The Horse Racing Connection
In the 1920s, John J. Fitz Gerald, a reporter for the New York Morning Telegraph, popularized the term “Big Apple” in his horse-racing columns. He first heard the term used by African American stable hands in New Orleans, who referred to New York’s racetracks as “the big apple,” indicating the ultimate prize in horse racing. The phrase was a nod to the big-time venues and opportunities available in New York City.
Key Points:
- The term “Big Apple” was popularized in the 1920s by John J. Fitz Gerald.
- It originated from African American stable hands referring to New York’s racetracks.
Expansion Beyond Horse Racing
The term gained wider usage in New York beyond horse racing circles. By the late 1920s, writers and jazz musicians adopted “Big Apple” to refer to New York City, particularly Harlem, as the jazz capital of the world. The term was featured in popular songs and dances of the 1930s, further cementing its association with the city’s vibrant culture.
Key Points:
- “Big Apple” was adopted by writers and jazz musicians in the 1930s.
- It symbolized New York City’s status as the jazz capital, especially Harlem.
The Revival and Enduring Popularity
Despite its early popularity, “Big Apple” faded into relative obscurity by the late 1950s. However, in the early 1970s, during New York City’s fiscal crisis, the nickname was revived as part of a tourism campaign led by Charles Gillett, president of the New York Convention and Visitors Bureau. The campaign was a response to the city’s need to bolster its image and promote tourism. Since then, the nickname has remained an endearing and popular moniker for New York City.
Key Points:
- The nickname was revived in the 1970s to promote tourism.
- The campaign led by Charles Gillett was a success, solidifying the nickname’s popularity.
Official Recognition
Acknowledging the significance of Fitz Gerald’s contribution, in 1997, Mayor Rudy Giuliani signed legislation designating the southwest corner of West 54th Street and Broadway as “Big Apple Corner.” This corner is where Fitz Gerald lived from 1934 to 1963, marking the official recognition of the term’s historical relevance to New York City.
Read: How Much is a Process Server in New York?
Last Words
The nickname “Big Apple” stands as a testament to New York City’s rich cultural and historical tapestry. From its humble beginnings in the horse racing community to becoming a symbol of the city’s jazz heritage and its resilience during economic hardships, the term “Big Apple” encapsulates the essence of New York City’s enduring appeal and global significance.