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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.