* The "tabloid" format predates the term: The smaller, more compact format existed long before the term "tabloid" became associated with sensationalized journalism. For example, the New York World (founded in 1883) was known for its use of pictures and dramatic storytelling, even though it wasn't called a "tabloid."
* The term "tabloid" evolves: The term "tabloid" originated in the late 19th century, initially referring to compressed medicine tablets. It was later adopted to describe a type of newspaper, likely inspired by the compact size of the Daily Mail (founded in 1896 in London), which is often cited as a pioneer in the format.
* Sensationalism emerges gradually: While some newspapers adopted the tabloid format, the association with sensationalized news developed over time. It wasn't until the early 20th century that publications like the New York Daily News (founded in 1919) fully embraced the tabloid format and its associated style.
Therefore, identifying the first paper tabloid newspaper is tricky:
* Format: The compact size was present in newspapers before the term "tabloid" existed.
* Sensationalism: The connection between the format and sensationalized content developed gradually over time.
If you're looking for a specific newspaper that's often cited as a pioneer, it would be the Daily Mail in London, founded in 1896. However, it's important to remember that the evolution of the "tabloid" format and its associated journalistic style was a complex process with no single definitive starting point.