Esquire Magazine: History, Current Status, and Recent News
History
Esquire magazine was founded in October 1933 by Arnold Gingrich, David A. Smart, and Henry L. Jackson. Initially, it was an offshoot of the trade magazine Apparel Arts, which later became Gentleman's Quarterly (GQ). The magazine was headquartered in Chicago before moving to New York City. Esquire quickly gained popularity during the Great Depression and World War II, featuring contributions from notable writers like Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald.In the 1940s, Esquire became known for its "Petty Girls" and "Vargas Girls," which were controversial but popular among the Armed Forces. The magazine faced legal challenges in 1943 when the U.S. Postmaster General accused it of promoting lewd images, but the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Esquire in 1946, protecting its right to use the postal service.During the 1960s, under the leadership of Harold Hayes, Esquire pioneered the New Journalism movement, publishing works by Norman Mailer, Tom Wolfe, and Gay Talese. The magazine also experimented with different formats, including a fortnightly edition in the late 1970s, which was short-lived.
Current Status
Esquire is currently published by Hearst in the United States and has over 20 international editions. The magazine has evolved into a lifestyle-heavy publication, covering men's fashion, politics, culture, and entertainment. It continues to be a platform for heralded writers and influential voices.
Recent News and Updates
90th Anniversary: Esquire celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2023, marking a significant milestone in its long history. The anniversary was commemorated with various retrospectives and special features.
New Hotel of the Year: In April 2024, Esquire named the Lafayette Hotel in San Diego as its 2024 New Hotel of the Year. This recognition highlights the magazine's influence in the travel and hospitality industry.
Political Coverage: Esquire has been actively covering political developments, including the ongoing legal battles involving former President Donald J. Trump. The magazine has provided in-depth analysis and commentary on the Supreme Court's decisions and their implications for U.S. politics.
Digital Presence: Esquire continues to expand its digital footprint, offering digital subscriptions and enhanced content through platforms like Zinio and Pocketmags. The magazine's website and social media channels remain active, engaging a broad audience with timely news and lifestyle content.
Esquire remains a significant cultural and journalistic force, adapting to the changing media landscape while staying true to its roots of providing insightful and stylish content for men.
