When John F. Kennedy Jr.
launched his magazine in 1995, the media world buzzed with curiosity. The name “George” seemed enigmatic, almost tongue-in-cheek, and instantly captured attention.
People speculated about its meaning, wondering whether it referenced a person, a cultural symbol, or perhaps an inside joke known only to a few. For a publication founded by the beloved son of a president and American icon, every choice was loaded with significance.
Kennedy Jr.’s decision was not arbitrary—it was a deliberate blend of wit, commentary, and cultural awareness. The magazine was stylish, politically savvy, and aimed at a new generation that admired both celebrity culture and public service.
Naming the magazine “George” was a statement, a wink to history, and a reflection of John F. Kennedy Jr.’s unique vision for American media.
Understanding why he chose this name offers insight into both the man and the legacy he sought to cultivate.
The Origins of the Name “George”
Many people initially assumed that “George” was named after a family member or close friend, but the truth is far more intriguing. The name was carefully selected for its symbolic resonance within American history and politics.
John F. Kennedy Jr.
and his co-founder Michael Berman wanted a title that conveyed both tradition and a sense of playful irreverence. “George” achieved this balance, alluding to the country’s first president, George Washington, while also poking fun at the notion that all political power stems from a single, recognizable figure.
By choosing “George,” the magazine invited readers to view politics through a fresh, modern lens, blending the gravitas of history with the approachable tone of lifestyle journalism. This combination set the publication apart from its more staid competitors.
“We wanted a name that was both iconic and a little bit cheeky,” Kennedy Jr. once explained in an interview.
“George just felt right—it’s American, it’s presidential, and it’s got a sense of humor.”
- George Washington is universally recognized as a symbol of American leadership.
- The name has no direct familial connection to the Kennedys.
- Choosing a first name emphasized accessibility and informality.
Presidential Symbolism and American Identity
The choice of the name “George” is deeply rooted in the mythology of the American presidency. By invoking George Washington, the magazine instantly established a connection to the country’s foundational values and ideals.
John F. Kennedy Jr.
understood the power of presidential imagery. He grew up in the shadow of the White House and was keenly aware of how symbols shape public perception.
“George” served as an emblem of authority, patriotism, and continuity—qualities that Kennedy Jr. believed were essential in the realm of politics and media.
At the same time, the name allowed the magazine to maintain a sense of neutrality. Unlike other titles that might seem overtly partisan or ideological, “George” referenced a leader admired across the political spectrum, reinforcing the magazine’s aspiration to be a forum for diverse perspectives.
- George Washington represents the origin of American democracy.
- The name evokes bipartisan respect and admiration.
- It signals a commitment to exploring politics as part of the broader American story.
| Magazine Name | Symbolic Meaning |
| George | Presidential, foundational, bipartisan |
| Time | Chronological, news-oriented |
| Esquire | Gentlemanly, aspirational |
Pop Culture and Political Satire
Another layer to the magazine’s name lies in its playful engagement with pop culture and satire. John F.
Kennedy Jr. was known for his charm and ability to connect with young audiences, and he wanted his magazine to reflect the same qualities.
By naming the publication “George,” Kennedy Jr. subtly referenced a long-standing rumor: that Americans were so disengaged from politics, they might not even know the president’s name.
The joke—”Who’s the president? George”—was a wink at both apathy and the ubiquity of the name in American political life.
This sense of humor pervaded the magazine’s editorial approach, which often blended serious political analysis with celebrity interviews, fashion spreads, and irreverent commentary. The name “George” set the tone for a publication that didn’t take itself too seriously, even as it tackled weighty issues.
“We wanted to take politics out of the stuffy back room and put it into the mainstream, where people actually live and laugh,” Kennedy Jr. said of his vision for the magazine.
- George embraced satire and popular culture.
- The title was a nod to the everyday American experience.
- It encouraged readers to see politics as accessible and even fun.
Breaking the Mold: Revolutionizing Political Journalism
Prior to “George,” political journalism was often seen as dry, inaccessible, or reserved for policy wonks. John F.
Kennedy Jr. wanted to turn this stereotype on its head by creating a glossy, visually stunning magazine that approached politics in the same way as fashion, entertainment, or sports.
“George” was designed to appeal to readers who might otherwise avoid political content. From its striking covers to its celebrity contributors, the magazine made politics stylish and engaging.
The name itself suggested a new kind of conversation—one that was personal, informal, and open to everyone.
By adopting a first name rather than a title or acronym, “George” invited readers into a community. It was as if the magazine were a friend, not an authority figure.
This approach helped the publication connect with Generation X and younger readers, who craved authenticity and relatability in media.
- Visual storytelling became a hallmark of the magazine.
- The editorial team focused on lifestyle as well as policy.
- Readers saw themselves reflected in the magazine’s tone and content.
Comparing “George” to Other Political Magazines
| Magazine | Traditional Approach | George’s Approach |
| Time | Formal, news-heavy | Conversational, stylish |
| The Atlantic | Longform, analytical | Visual, personality-driven |
| George | N/A | Playful, accessible, modern |
Personal Motivation and the Kennedy Legacy
As the son of a president and member of one of America’s most famous families, John F. Kennedy Jr.
faced unique pressures and expectations. He was acutely aware of the Kennedy legacy, which included a commitment to public service and a talent for communication.
“George” was more than a magazine—it was Kennedy Jr.’s way of redefining what it meant to be a public figure in the modern era. He wanted to use his platform to inspire civic engagement while also making politics less intimidating.
The magazine’s name captured this dual mission, bridging the gap between the past and the future.
For Kennedy Jr., the name “George” was also a reminder that history is shaped by individuals, not just institutions. By focusing on people and personalities, the magazine celebrated the power of the individual to make a difference—an ethos that resonated with his own upbringing and values.
“I’m not just interested in politics as usual. I want to show how it touches everyone’s life, every day,” Kennedy Jr.
told a reporter at the magazine’s launch.
- The Kennedy family legacy influenced the magazine’s mission.
- “George” reflected JFK Jr.’s personal vision for civic life.
- The magazine aimed to spark interest in public affairs among new audiences.
If you’re curious about how other names carry personal or historical weight, you might enjoy exploring how names change in different life events or learning how places like Battle Creek, Michigan, got their names.
Influence of Media Trends and Market Positioning
The media landscape of the 1990s was rapidly changing. Magazines were competing for attention with television, emerging digital outlets, and a more visually literate audience.
Kennedy Jr. recognized that to stand out, “George” needed both a memorable name and a distinctive editorial voice.
The choice of a first name as a magazine title was unconventional at the time, setting “George” apart from competitors. It also hinted at the publication’s ambition to be on a first-name basis with its readers—intimate, welcoming, and approachable.
Market research played a role in the decision as well. Focus groups responded positively to the name “George,” associating it with trustworthiness, warmth, and a touch of intrigue.
The branding helped the magazine carve out a unique niche in a crowded field.
- Market research confirmed the appeal of the name.
- The branding was fresh and unexpected in the world of news magazines.
- “George” conveyed a sense of personal connection with readers.
| Brand Attribute | Traditional Magazines | George |
| Formality | High | Low |
| Relatability | Moderate | High |
| Visual Style | Conservative | Trendy, bold |
For more examples of how names can shape a brand or a story, look into how the Chicago Cubs got their name or the story behind band names like 311.
The Legacy of “George” in Media and Culture
Although “George” ceased publication in 2001, its impact on media and political journalism endures. The magazine demonstrated that there was a market for smart, stylish coverage of politics and public life, paving the way for later publications and digital ventures that blended news with pop culture.
The name “George” remains symbolic of a unique moment in American media, when optimism, irreverence, and civic engagement came together in a single, glossy package. Its influence can be seen in today’s political podcasts, satirical news programs, and lifestyle-oriented news sites.
Many former staffers and contributors have gone on to prominent roles in journalism, politics, and entertainment, carrying forward the magazine’s spirit of innovation and curiosity. The story of “George” continues to inspire those who believe that media can be both serious and fun, and that names matter—sometimes more than we realize.
- “George” set the stage for multimedia approaches to political reporting.
- The magazine’s playful tone attracted a new generation of readers.
- Its branding remains a case study in memorable media naming.
Notable Quotes About the Magazine’s Name
“We wanted a name so simple, so American, that it would be impossible to forget.” — Michael Berman, co-founder of George
If you’re fascinated by the power of naming and its cultural meaning, you might want to read why names are important and how they shape identity.
Comparisons with Other Iconic Names in History and Media
Names have always played a crucial role in shaping perception, whether for people, products, or places. The choice to call the magazine “George” fits into a broader tradition of using names to convey meaning and spark interest.
Consider other examples where names carry both literal and symbolic significance. From the naming of cities and sports teams to the adoption of pseudonyms by artists and writers, the right name can turn a concept into a cultural phenomenon.
The magazine’s name stands alongside other memorable choices, illustrating how a single word can encapsulate a vision, a mission, or even a moment in time. The selection of “George” demonstrates the value of creativity and intentionality in branding—a lesson for anyone launching a new venture today.
- Names like “George” invite curiosity and conversation.
- Symbolic names often become shorthand for broader ideas.
- Careful naming can influence public perception for years to come.
| Name | Context | Symbolic Meaning |
| George | Magazine | Presidential, accessible, witty |
| 311 | Band | Mystery, inside joke |
| Chicago Cubs | Sports Team | Civic pride, youthful energy |
Learn more about how these names came to be by reading the origin of 311’s name or the story behind the Chicago Cubs.
Conclusion: The Enduring Significance of “George”
The decision by John F. Kennedy Jr.
to name his magazine “George” was far more than a whimsical choice. It reflected a deep understanding of American history, a sharp sense of humor, and a desire to revolutionize the way people engaged with politics.
The name encapsulated the magazine’s mission: to demystify public life, make civic engagement appealing, and remind readers that politics is, at its core, about people—individuals with names, stories, and dreams.
“George” remains a touchstone in the world of media and branding, a reminder that names carry the power to shape perception and spark imagination. Kennedy Jr.’s vision continues to resonate, challenging us to think differently about how we communicate, connect, and participate in our democracy.
Whether you’re launching a new publication, naming a company, or simply choosing a name for a new pet, the story of “George” is a powerful example of how the right name can make all the difference.
If you’re inspired by the story of “George” and want to explore more about the meaning and impact of names, check out our deep dives into the origins of famous names like Wendy or discover creative ideas for naming your new pet bunny.
The journey of a name is often just the beginning of a much bigger story.
