National Newspaper Columnists Day celebrates the dedicated writers who bring us unique perspectives, insights, and stories through their newspaper columns. This observance honors both the craft of column writing and the memory of legendary war correspondent Ernie Pyle.
Quick Facts
When is it?: April 18 annually
Tagged as: Media, Journalism, Writing
What’s the hashtag?: #NewspaperColumnistsDay #ColumnistsDay
When was it founded?: 1995
Who founded it?: National Society of Newspaper Columnists (NSNC)
History
The day was established to commemorate Ernie Pyle, a Pulitzer Prize-winning war correspondent who was killed in action during World War II on April 18, 1945. Bill Tammeus and Dave Lieber of the NSNC proposed this day to recognize columnists’ contributions to journalism and public discourse.
Timeline
- 1945: Ernie Pyle killed in action at Okinawa
- 1977: National Society of Newspaper Columnists founded
- 1995: First National Newspaper Columnists Day observed
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 18 | Friday |
| 2026 | April 18 | Saturday |
| 2027 | April 18 | Sunday |
| 2028 | April 18 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | April 18 | Wednesday |
Observed
The day is marked by reading columns, sharing favorite pieces, and recognizing columnists’ contributions to journalism and public discourse.
Fun Facts About Columnists
- Ernie Pyle’s columns appeared in over 700 newspapers nationwide
- The oldest newspaper still being published started in Sweden in 1645
- Columnists often specialize in specific topics like politics, lifestyle, or sports
Quiz
- When did Ernie Pyle die?
- Who established National Newspaper Columnists Day?
- What year was NSNC founded?
(Answers: 1945, NSNC, 1977)
FAQs
Q: How can I celebrate this day?
A: Read columns, thank your favorite columnists, share great columns on social media
Q: Why April 18?
A: It marks the anniversary of Ernie Pyle’s death in WWII
Importance of Columnists Day
This day recognizes columnists’ role in shaping public opinion, providing unique perspectives, and maintaining democratic discourse through their writing.
Related
- World Press Freedom Day
- National Writers Day
- International Journalists Day
- World News Day
- Freedom of Speech Day