Title: Unpacking the Significance of 'Record' in the Newspaper of Record In today's digital age, it's easy to forget the humble beginnings of print journalism. But for The New York Times, the so-called 'newspaper of record', history has been an integral part of its identity. And no word captures this better than 'record'. Since it was first cited in The New York Times in the late 19th century, 'record' has taken on a myriad of meanings, symbolizing everything from unprecedented achievements to historic events. But it wasn't until 2008 that 'record' truly made its mark in the newspaper's history. With the election of Barack Obama as the first black president of the United States, The New York Times broke its own record for the most number of times 'record' had appeared in a single year. In a celebratory editorial, the paper observed that "the word 'record' has become as commonplace as 'the', 'is' and 'and'." But what is it about 'record' that has captivated Times writers and readers alike for well over a century? Perhaps it's the way that the word encompasses so much of what makes print journalism so indelibly powerful: the ability to capture a fleeting moment in time and transform it into a permanent, unalterable piece of history. As we move into an increasingly unpredictable future, it's more important than ever to remember the vital role that The New York Times and other print journalists have played – and will continue to play – in shaping our shared history. And 'record' will undoubtedly remain a fitting tribute to the power of the printed word. So, next time you find yourself browsing through the pages of The New York Times, take a moment to appreciate the significance of 'record'. Because, in the end, it's so much more than just a word – it's a window into our collective past, present, and future. In 2008, The New York Times used the word "record" frequently. This article looks at the history of the word's usage in the "Newspaper of Record".
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