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Harold Ross of The New Yorker: The Man Who Shaped American Journalism

Isaac Asimov

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Published in Genius In Disguise: Harold Ross Of The New Yorker

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Harold Ross, the founder and first editor of The New Yorker, was one of the most influential figures in American journalism. He revolutionized the way magazines were written, edited, and read. This meticulously researched biography tells the story of Ross's life and career, from his humble beginnings in Colorado to his rise to the top of the publishing world. Drawing on extensive archival research and interviews with Ross's family, friends, and colleagues, the author paints a vivid portrait of a complex and fascinating man.

The Early Years

Harold Wallace Ross was born on November 2, 1892, in Aspen, Colorado. His father was a miner and his mother was a schoolteacher. Ross's family was poor, and he had to work from a young age to help support them. He attended the University of Colorado, but dropped out after two years to pursue a career in journalism.

Genius in Disguise: Harold Ross of The New Yorker

by Thomas Kunkel

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9524 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	497 pages

Ross's first job was as a reporter for the Denver Post. He quickly rose through the ranks, and by the age of 25, he was the city editor. In 1920, Ross moved to New York City to become the managing editor of the New York Daily News. The Daily News was a tabloid newspaper, and Ross's experience there taught him the importance of writing for a mass audience.

Founding The New Yorker

In 1924, Ross left the Daily News to found The New Yorker. He wanted to create a magazine that was both entertaining and informative, and that would appeal to the sophisticated readers of New York City. Ross's vision for The New Yorker was ambitious, but he was determined to make it a success.

The first issue of The New Yorker was published on February 21, 1925. The magazine was an immediate success, and it quickly became one of the most popular magazines in America. Ross's editorial staff was a who's who of American journalism, and the magazine's writers included some of the most talented and respected authors of the day.

The Ross Era

Ross was a demanding editor, but he also knew how to get the best out of his writers. He encouraged them to be creative and to experiment with new forms of writing. Ross also had a keen eye for talent, and he was always on the lookout for new writers. Under Ross's leadership, The New Yorker became one of the most influential magazines in the world.

Ross remained editor of The New Yorker until his death in 1951. During his tenure, the magazine won numerous awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service in 1942. Ross was also a respected figure in American journalism, and he was often consulted by presidents and other political leaders.

Legacy

Harold Ross is considered one of the greatest editors in American history. He revolutionized the way magazines were written, edited, and read. Ross's influence can still be seen in magazines today, and his legacy as a pioneer in American journalism continues to inspire journalists and editors around the world.