The Big Apple: It's Not Just a Fruit Salad
So, you're wondering why they call New York City the Big Apple, huh? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dive into a juicy piece of trivia.
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| Why Do They Call New York City The Big Apple |
A Tale of Apples and Horses
Let's start with the obvious: no, New York City isn't a giant orchard. Despite what your grandma might tell you, there aren't apple trees growing out of every sidewalk crack. The nickname actually comes from the world of horse racing.
QuickTip: Skim first, then reread for depth.
Back in the roaring twenties, a sportswriter named John J. Fitz Gerald was covering the horse racing scene. He noticed that the African-American stable hands called the big races "the big apple." It was their slang for the big-time money to be made. Fitz Gerald loved the phrase and started using it in his columns to refer to the New York racing circuit.
Tip: Look out for transitions like ‘however’ or ‘but’.
From Racetracks to Nightclubs
Fast forward a few years, and the Big Apple nickname started popping up in jazz circles. Musicians would use it to describe playing a gig in New York City - the ultimate destination for a jazz musician. The phrase gained even more traction in the 1930s with the Harlem Renaissance.
Tip: Don’t skim past key examples.
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A City Reborn
The Big Apple almost faded into obscurity, but in the 1970s, it was resurrected to breathe new life into the city. New York was going through a rough patch, and the city needed a fresh image. Enter Charles Gillett, a marketing genius who decided to bring back the Big Apple. He launched a massive campaign, plastering the city with apple-themed merchandise and promoting New York as the place to be. And voila! The Big Apple was back, bigger and better than ever.
QuickTip: Absorb ideas one at a time.
So, there you have it. The Big Apple is a nickname with a rich history, from horse racing to jazz to city branding. It's a testament to New York's enduring appeal and its ability to reinvent itself time and again.
How to Become a Big Apple Expert
- How to impress your friends with Big Apple trivia: Drop knowledge about the horse racing origins and the jazz connection.
- How to order like a true New Yorker: Skip the fancy coffee drinks and go for a classic black coffee (or a bagel with lox).
- How to navigate the subway like a pro: Always stand to the right on the escalator, and don't block the doors.
- How to experience the city like a local: Explore different neighborhoods, try the street food, and catch a Broadway show.
- How to survive a New York winter: Invest in a good coat, layer up, and embrace the cozy indoor activities.
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