National Enquirer Day

Welcome to National Enquirer Day! Prepare for gossip, scandal, and all things juicy. This is the day we celebrate the rich history of the beloved tabloid, The National Enquirer. Get ready to dive into a world of outrageous headlines, jaw-dropping stories, and questionable sources. Buckle up, because it's going to be a wild ride!

When is Enquirer Day?

It's national enquirer day on the 17th November.

A Brief History of the National Enquirer

The National Enquirer, often referred to as the king of tabloids, has been entertaining readers since its founding in 1926. With its eye-catching headlines and sensational stories, it has become a cultural icon and a guilty pleasure for many.

Originally known as The New York Enquirer, the publication began as a daily broadsheet newspaper. However, it wasn't until the 1950s that the Enquirer started embracing the style that would eventually define it. Under the leadership of Generoso Pope Jr., the Enquirer shifted its focus to celebrity gossip, scandals, and bizarre stories.

Over the years, the National Enquirer has gained a reputation for pushing the boundaries of journalism. Its investigative reporting has exposed political scandals, but it's the sensational stories and outrageous claims that have captured the public's imagination. From Elvis sightings to alien encounters, the Enquirer has covered it all.

The Internet and the Rise of Tabloid Culture

With the advent of the internet, tabloid culture exploded. The National Enquirer quickly adapted to the digital age, reaching even wider audiences with its online presence. While some criticize the Enquirer for its questionable reporting and exploitative tactics, others see it as a form of entertainment and escapism.

Love it or hate it, the National Enquirer has shaped popular culture and captivated readers for decades. Whether you're fascinated by celebrity gossip or just need a guilty pleasure, this tabloid has something for everyone.

History behind the term 'Enquirer'

1473

Medieval Beginnings

In the year 1473, the term 'enquirer' first emerged in the English language. It derived from the Old French word 'enquerre' which means 'to inquire' or 'to ask questions'. During the medieval period, this term referred to a person who sought information or answers through questions and investigations.

1475

Early Origins

The term 'enquirer' can be traced back to the English language in the year 1475. It derived from the Middle English word 'enquere,' which means 'to ask' or 'to inquire.' At this time, the term referred to someone who sought information or looked for answers to their questions.

1287

Ancient Origins

The term 'enquirer' finds its roots in the 13th century, where it emerged from the Old French word 'enquerre'. This word, in turn, derived from the Latin word 'inquirere', meaning 'to seek into' or 'to investigate'. The idea of seeking and investigating has been a fundamental part of human nature since ancient times, with people constantly desiring to gain knowledge and understanding about the world around them.

1529

Origins in Middle French

The term 'enquirer' originated in Middle French as 'enquerre', which meant to inquire or ask. It was derived from the Old French word 'enquerre' and ultimately from the Latin word 'inquirere', which meant to search into or investigate.

15th century

Origins in medieval Europe

During the 15th century in medieval Europe, the term 'enquirer' emerged as a noun that referred to a person who inquired or asked questions. These individuals were known for their insatiable curiosity and thirst for knowledge. With limited access to information, enquirers played a crucial role in gathering news, investigating, and seeking the truth in various matters.

1300s

Origin of the term 'enquirer'.

The term 'enquirer' originates from the Middle English word 'enqueren', which means 'to seek' or 'to ask'. In the 14th century, 'enquirer' was used to refer to someone who asked questions or sought information.

1400

Emergence of 'Inquirer'

The word 'inquirer' has its origins in the late 14th century, derived from the Latin word 'inquirere', meaning 'to seek into' or 'to investigate'. In this period, the term was used to refer to a person who is curious or inquisitive by nature, showing an eagerness to gather knowledge and investigate various subjects.

1500s

Emergence of the Term

The term 'enquirer' first emerged in the English language during the 1500s. It was derived from the Old French word 'enquerre' meaning 'to inquire'. At this time, 'enquirer' referred to a person who sought information or knowledge by asking questions.

1477

Origins of the Term

The term 'enquirer' has its origins in the late 15th century, specifically in the year 1477. It was derived from the Middle English word 'enquere,' meaning 'to ask' or 'to inquire.' This word itself can be traced back to the Old French word 'enquerre,' which had a similar meaning.

1766

The rise of the question-asking society.

In the 18th century, there was a growing curiosity and thirst for knowledge among the people. This led to the establishment of 'enquiring societies' and 'enquiring minds' who actively sought answers to their questions. The term 'enquirer' gained prominence as it perfectly captured the spirit of these individuals.

1700s

Enquirer as a Term for News Seekers

Throughout the 1700s, the usage of 'enquirer' evolved to specifically describe individuals who were avid seekers of news and information. These 'enquirers' were known for their curiosity and desire to stay informed about current events and worldly affairs.

1926

Birth of 'The Enquirer'

'The Enquirer' was first introduced in 1926 as a weekly tabloid newspaper published in New York City. It aimed to explore sensational stories, scandals, and mysteries that captivated the public's attention. The publication quickly gained popularity due to its intriguing headline-grabbing articles.

1769

The Rise of the Newspaper

During the 18th century, the printed press began to flourish, giving rise to the concept of the newspaper. In 1769, the first modern newspaper known as 'The Halifax Gazette' was published in Canada. This marked a significant milestone in the dissemination of news and information to the masses. As newspapers became more widespread, the need for a term to describe those who inquire and report on news stories arose. Thus, the term 'enquirer' started to be used to refer to individuals involved in gathering and investigating news for newspapers.

1749

The Enquirer as a Publication Name

In 1749, the first notable usage of the term 'enquirer' as a publication name emerged. The London-based publication 'The Enquirer' provided discussions and information on a wide range of topics, including politics, literature, and society. It was one of the early examples of a platform that aimed to keep the public informed and engaged.

1768

Evolution of the Term

By the year 1768, the term 'enquirer' had evolved to have broader connotations. It began to refer to someone who gathered information or facts about a subject, often in a journalistic or investigative manner. This shift reflected the growing interest in gathering information and reporting it to the public.

1883

The Formation of The National Enquirer

In the year 1883, an American newspaper named The National Enquirer was founded. Originally, it was a weekly newspaper focusing on politics, culture, and society. The name 'Enquirer' was chosen to reflect the newspaper's commitment to seeking out the truth and investigating stories.

18th century

The rise of newspapers

In the 18th century, newspapers began to gain popularity, becoming a primary source of information for the public. An enquirer played a significant role in the world of journalism, conducting interviews, gathering facts, and investigating stories. As a result, the term 'enquirer' became closely associated with the profession of reporting and journalism.

1647

Introduction to English

In 1647, the term 'enquirer' found its way into the English language from Middle French. It retained its original meaning of someone who asks or inquires about something.

1841

Birth of the National Enquirer

The year 1841 marked a significant milestone for the term 'enquirer' when it became associated with a well-known publication. The National Enquirer, a tabloid newspaper, was first launched in 1926 under the name 'The New York Enquirer'. It underwent several name changes before becoming the National Enquirer in 1952.

1926

The birth of 'The Enquirer'

In 1926, a publication called 'The Enquirer' was established in Cincinnati, Ohio, by John H. Patterson. Initially, it focused on providing information and news related to the business world. However, it soon evolved into a tabloid-style newspaper, featuring sensationalized stories and celebrity gossip, catering to a different audience.

1926

The National Enquirer

In 1926, the iconic tabloid newspaper 'The National Enquirer' was founded. It played a significant role in popularizing the term 'enquirer' as a noun, synonymous with someone who actively seeks sensational news and gossip. The National Enquirer became known for its sensationalized headlines and celebrity-focused content, captivating readers with scandalous stories.

1926

Tabloid Journalism

By the early 20th century, the term 'enquirer' became associated with a specific type of journalism known as tabloid journalism. Tabloids, including publications like 'The National Enquirer,' focused on sensational and often speculative stories to attract a broad readership. These publications gained popularity due to their ability to entertain and titillate readers with scandalous or outlandish content.

1843

Birth of 'The Enquirer' Newspaper

In 1843, 'The Enquirer' newspaper was established in Cincinnati, Ohio, United States. It started as a daily publication, quickly gaining popularity and becoming one of the leading newspapers of its time. It focused on delivering in-depth news coverage and investigative reporting. As a result, the term 'enquirer' became closely associated with a specific newspaper, further solidifying its connection to journalism and news inquiry.

1848

The birth of 'The Enquirer'.

In 1848, 'The Enquirer' newspaper was founded in Cincinnati, Ohio, United States. It aimed to provide a platform for 'enquiring minds' to seek answers to the pressing questions of the time. With its insightful articles and engaging content, 'The Enquirer' became a popular source of information and inspiration for the readers.

1952

Transition to 'National Enquirer'

In 1952, 'The Enquirer' transformed into the 'National Enquirer,' targeting a broader national audience instead of solely focusing on New York City. The content of the publication shifted to include celebrity gossip, bizarre stories, and sensationalized reporting, garnering even greater readership.

1926

The National Enquirer

In 1926, the term 'enquirer' found its way into the name of a popular publication known as 'The National Enquirer'. Founded by William Griffin, this magazine initially focused on celebrity gossip, scandals, and sensational stories. It quickly gained a reputation for its eye-catching headlines and tabloid-style journalism.

1952

Transformation into a Tabloid

It wasn't until the year 1952 that The National Enquirer underwent a significant transformation. It shifted its focus to gossip, scandals, and sensational stories, adopting a more tabloid-like format. This was a turning point in the history of the term 'enquirer,' as it became synonymous with tabloid journalism and sensationalism.

1971

'National Enquirer' under new ownership

In 1971, the 'National Enquirer' underwent a change in ownership and editorial direction when it was acquired by Generoso Pope Jr., an innovative publisher. Pope Jr. introduced eye-catching headlines and increased the emphasis on celebrity news, transforming the publication into a highly successful tabloid.

1953

A Shift in Focus

In 1953, 'The National Enquirer' underwent a significant shift in focus. Under new ownership, the magazine transformed into a more news-oriented publication, covering a wider range of topics, including politics, science, and human interest stories. This marked a departure from its initial sensationalistic approach.

1970

Shift towards Gossip and Sensationalism

During the 1970s, the National Enquirer shifted its focus towards celebrity gossip and sensational stories. This led to the term 'enquirer' becoming strongly associated with tabloid journalism known for its scandalous and often exaggerated content.

1971

Under New Ownership

In 1971, The National Enquirer was acquired by Generoso Pope Jr., an entrepreneur and publisher. Pope Jr. brought a new approach to the tabloid, emphasizing celebrity gossip and shocking headlines. The Enquirer gained a reputation for its bold and often controversial stories, becoming a household name in the world of tabloid journalism.

2000s

Digital Era and Online Enquirers

With the rise of the internet and digital media, the term 'enquirer' has taken on new dimensions. Online platforms and social media have created a space for millions of 'enquirers' around the world who actively engage in seeking and sharing information, whether it be news, opinions, or personal interests. The term now encompasses a broader audience of curious individuals navigating the vast digital landscape.

1926

The National Enquirer

'The National Enquirer' was first published in 1926, originally as a weekly newspaper. It gained prominence for its sensationalist and tabloid-style coverage of celebrity gossip, scandals, and conspiracy theories. Despite its controversial reputation, 'The National Enquirer' became one of the most widely read newspapers in the United States, capturing the public's fascination with sensational news stories. The term 'enquirer' became synonymous with tabloid journalism and the pursuit of sensationalized news.

1926

Evolution into a tabloid publication.

Over the years, 'The Enquirer' underwent changes in its format and content. In 1926, the publication transformed into a tabloid newspaper, focusing more on sensational news stories and celebrity gossip. This shift in direction brought 'The Enquirer' into the spotlight, making it a widely recognized name in the media industry.

1953

The National Enquirer era begins

In 1953, Generoso Pope Jr., an Italian-American businessman, acquired 'The Enquirer' and transformed its content. Pope turned the publication into a sensationalist tabloid, featuring scandalous stories, celebrity rumors, and unconventional investigative reporting. With its catchy headlines and unique style, the National Enquirer quickly gained a massive readership and became a cultural phenomenon.

1952

The National Enquirer

In 1952, 'The National Enquirer' was founded as a weekly newspaper in the United States. It played a significant role in shaping the modern understanding of the term 'enquirer.' The publication embraced an entertainment-focused format, featuring celebrity gossip, scandal stories, and conspiracy theories. Over the years, it became one of the most well-known tabloid newspapers globally.

1990s

Becoming a Household Name

In the 1990s, the National Enquirer gained widespread popularity, becoming a household name that represented sensationalized reporting. It became infamous for its attention-grabbing headlines and controversial stories, often featuring celebrities and public figures.

1995

Internet Era and Influence

With the rise of the internet in the mid-1990s, The National Enquirer seized the opportunity to expand its reach. It launched its website, tapping into the digital world and reaching a global audience. The term 'enquirer' became even more widely recognized as the brand extended its influence beyond print.

1971

The 'National' prefix

In 1971, 'The Enquirer' renamed itself as the 'National Enquirer,' solidifying its status as a prominent tabloid in the United States. The newspaper continued to captivate readers with shocking headlines and controversial stories, often balancing celebrity gossip, true crime, and the bizarre.

1971

Rebirth as a Tabloid

By the year 1971, 'The National Enquirer' reintroduced the tabloid format and reverted to covering mostly celebrity gossip and scandalous stories. It gained immense popularity and became known for its bold headlines, sometimes stretching the boundaries of credibility. Despite this, the term 'enquirer' continued to be associated with seeking and reporting information.

1990

The Enquirer Goes Weekly

In 1990, 'The National Enquirer' transitioned from a weekly newspaper to a weekly magazine format. This change allowed for increased visuals, colorful layouts, and a more extensive coverage of celebrity content. Despite evolving media landscapes, 'The National Enquirer' continues to be published today, maintaining its status as a prominent publication using the term 'enquirer' in its title.

2004

The Digital Age

With the advent of the internet and the rise of online news platforms, the term 'enquirer' expanded its reach beyond traditional print media. Online news outlets and blogs adopted the term to describe their investigative and inquiring nature. The internet provided a platform for individuals to become 'enquirers' themselves, sharing information, opinions, and uncovering facts through online research and analysis. The term 'enquirer' took on a new dimension, reflecting the participation of the public in the quest for information and truth.

1980s

Controversy and Impact

During the 1980s, the 'National Enquirer' faced both acclaim and controversy. While criticized for its sensationalism and occasionally unfounded stories, it also broke several significant news stories, including political scandals and celebrity revelations. The publication's celebrity-driven content ultimately reshaped the landscape of tabloid journalism and contributed to a culture of celebrity fascination.

1970s

The National Enquirer becomes a cultural phenomenon.

In the 1970s, 'The National Enquirer' emerged as a prominent tabloid newspaper that captivated readers with its sensational headlines and celebrity scandals. With its exclusive stories and eye-catching cover photos, 'The National Enquirer' became a cultural phenomenon, attracting millions of readers worldwide. It played a significant role in shaping popular culture and fueling public interest in celebrity news.

Present

Modern Usage and Evolution

Today, the term 'enquirer' is often used to describe someone who engages in seeking and gathering information, typically in a more informal or gossipy sense. The influence of tabloid journalism and the National Enquirer's legacy on popular culture has contributed to the modern connotation of the term.

Present

'National Enquirer' in the Digital Age

In the modern era, the 'National Enquirer' adapted to the digital age, expanding its online presence and reaching a wider audience through various media platforms. Although its readership has declined due to competition from online gossip sites and changing media consumption habits, the 'National Enquirer' continues to be recognized as an influential figure in popular culture and tabloid journalism.

Late 20th century

Evolution into celebrity-focused tabloid

Throughout the late 20th century, the National Enquirer cemented its position as a leading celebrity-focused tabloid. It regularly published exclusive stories, paparazzi photographs, and exposés, attracting avid readership seeking the latest revelations about famous personalities. While often criticized for its sensationalism, the publication undeniably left a mark on popular culture.

2021

Pop Culture and Infotainment

In the present day, the term 'enquirer' has become deeply rooted in popular culture and the realm of infotainment. While The National Enquirer remains an iconic tabloid publication, the term is also used more broadly to refer to someone who seeks out information, uncovering secrets, and delving into intriguing stories, whether in a professional or personal capacity.

Present

Modern Usage

In the present day, the term 'enquirer' is commonly used to refer to someone who asks questions or investigates to gather information. It is not limited to journalistic endeavors but can also apply to anyone seeking knowledge or conducting inquiries. Although 'The National Enquirer' remains a well-known publication, the term 'enquirer' has transcended its association with tabloid magazines to encompass a broader range of contexts.

Present day

Continuing influence and digital presence

In the present day, the term 'enquirer' is still associated with the National Enquirer, even though other publications may use it as well. While the popularity of tabloid magazines has somewhat declined, the National Enquirer retains a dedicated readership, and the term 'enquirer' remains synonymous with curiosity, investigation, and sensationalism. Moreover, the publication has embraced the digital era, maintaining a significant online presence and adapting to the changing media landscape.

Did you know?

Did you know that the National Enquirer has won numerous awards for its investigative reporting, despite its reputation as a tabloid? Their coverage of the O.J. Simpson murder trial earned them a Pulitzer Prize nomination.