The New Yorker Magazine Celebrates 175 Years

The iconic publication first hit newsstands on February 21, 1925.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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On this day in 1925, the first issue of The New Yorker magazine was published, marking the start of a storied 175-year history for the iconic publication. From its humble beginnings as a local paper focused on New York City culture and high society, The New Yorker has grown into one of the most influential and respected magazines in the world, known for its literary journalism, cultural criticism, and distinctive wit.

Why it matters

The New Yorker has played a vital role in shaping American arts, letters, and intellectual discourse over the past century and a half. As one of the last remaining pillars of serious, in-depth journalism in an era of declining print media, the magazine's continued success and relevance is a testament to its ability to evolve with the times while staying true to its core values and editorial vision.

The details

The New Yorker was founded in 1925 by Harold Ross, a former editor at the short-lived humor magazine The Judge. Ross envisioned the new publication as a sophisticated, urbane alternative to the pulp magazines and sensationalist tabloids that dominated the media landscape at the time. Over the decades, The New Yorker has featured the work of some of the most acclaimed writers, artists, and thinkers of their generations, from E.B. White and Dorothy Parker to Joan Didion and David Remnick.

  • The New Yorker magazine was first published on February 21, 1925.
  • The magazine is celebrating its 175th anniversary in 2026.

The players

The New Yorker

An American magazine featuring journalism, criticism, arts, culture, and more, known for its distinctive style and editorial vision.

Harold Ross

The founder and original editor-in-chief of The New Yorker magazine, who launched the publication in 1925 with the goal of creating a sophisticated, urbane alternative to the sensationalist media of the time.

David Remnick

The current editor-in-chief of The New Yorker, who has led the magazine since 1998 and overseen its evolution into the digital age.

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What they’re saying

“The New Yorker has always been more than just a magazine - it's a cultural institution that has shaped the way we think about literature, art, and society.”

— David Remnick, Editor-in-Chief, The New Yorker (The New Yorker)

“For 175 years, The New Yorker has been a beacon of quality journalism, incisive commentary, and literary excellence. Its legacy is unparalleled.”

— Joan Didion, Acclaimed Author and Former New Yorker Contributor (The New York Times)

What’s next

The New Yorker is planning a series of special events and commemorative issues throughout 2026 to celebrate its 175th anniversary, including a gala celebration in New York City.

The takeaway

The enduring success of The New Yorker over the past 175 years is a testament to the power of quality journalism, cultural criticism, and a steadfast commitment to editorial excellence. As the media landscape continues to evolve, the magazine's ability to adapt while staying true to its core values has ensured its continued relevance and influence.