The Daily News is a tabloid newspaper founded on June 26, 1919. It was a pioneer of the tabloid format and held the title of America’s largest circulation metropolitan daily newspaper for much of the 20th century. The paper fought a long battle for readers against its rival, the New York Post. The Daily News was often referred to as “too tough to die” during its century of existence.
In 1992 Mortimer Zuckerman, owner of the Chicago Tribune and other newspapers, outbid Canadian Conrad Black to buy the newspaper. During his tenure, the Daily News gained a reputation for protecting First Amendment rights through legal action. For example, it forced the courts to unseal documents relating to New York’s eight pending death penalty cases and strengthened access to city Board of Education and family court records. Zuckerman also improved the newspaper’s business practices, reducing operating costs and increasing advertising revenue.
During 1997 the Daily News began printing its weekday editions in color, making it the first city tabloid to do so. The changeover was made possible by the installation of $60 million worth of Goss four-color presses at the company’s new printing plant in Jersey City, New Jersey.
The daily paper continues to include strong city news coverage, celebrity gossip, classified ads, comics and a sports section. It is the largest-selling newspaper in New York City. It has a strong commitment to the art and culture community and regularly features work by local artists. In addition it covers major events and has an extensive international news service.