New York City, often called "The Big Apple", is one of the most prestigious and influential cities in the world. Known for its giant horizon, cultural diversity, and rapid book lifestyle, NYC is a global center for finance, art, fashion, and entertainment. Each year, with more than 8 million inhabitants and countless visitors, the city is a melting pot of dreams, ambition, and opportunity. But beyond its vibrant roads and famous sites, there is an interesting story behind its surname. Why is New York called "The Big Apple"? The term has a rich and colorful history that reflects the dynamic spirit of the city. From horse racing tracks to Jazz clubs and tourism campaigns, the surname has become famous in the city.
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Key Details
Feature | Details |
Nickname | The Big Apple |
City Name | New York City |
State | New York |
Population (2024) | Over 8.5 million |
Origin of Nickname | 1920s horse racing slang |
Popularized By | John J. Fitz Gerald (sports journalist) |
Revived In | 1970s tourism campaign |
Other Nicknames | The City That Never Sleeps, Gotham |
Iconic Symbols | Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Broadway |
Why New York City is called the Big Apple?
The surname is a complicated origin of "The Big Apple," which dates back to the 1920s. This is the first time John J. Fitz was popularized by Garald, a sportswriter for the New York Morning Telegraph, who used the term in the context of the city's major horse racing track. At that time, jockeys and trainers referred to the big-time racing circuit as a "big apple", with the last award for New York. The phrase was quickly caught and later adopted by Jazz musicians in the 1930s, who saw New York as a major gig and a place of success. The surname faded for some time, but revived in the 1970s when the New York Convention and Visitors Bureau launched a tourist campaign using "The Big Apple" to promote the city's image. Today, the surname represents the status of New York as a land of opportunity, culture, and ambition - a city where large dreams are pursued and made real.
Interesting Facts About ‘The Big Apple’ City
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More than 800 languages are spoken in the city of New York, making it the most linguistically diverse city in the world.
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The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France and stood as a global symbol of freedom and democracy.
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Times Square attracts around 330,000 visitors per day and is known for its huge electronic hoardings and New Year's Eve celebrations.
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Broadway is the world's most famous theater district, with more than 40 professional theaters and countless prestigious performances.
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Central Park includes 843 acres of land compared to the entire country of Monaco.
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The NYC subway systems have 472 stations, the highest of any transit system in the world, and runs 24 hours a day.
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The city was named "Gotham" in 1807 by author Washington Irving.
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The NYC was the first US capital under the Constitution and hosted the inauguration of George Washington in 1789.