The New York World, published from 1860 to 1931, was a highly influential American newspaper and a leading national voice for the Democratic Party. Its most impactful era began in 1883 under publisher Joseph Pulitzer, who transformed it into a pioneer of "yellow journalism," aggressively building its daily circulation to one million.

Under Pulitzer, the World captivated readers with sensation, sports, and scandal, while also featuring groundbreaking investigative reporter Nellie Bly, famous for her undercover work and a 72-day global journey in 1889-1890. The paper introduced America's first color supplement, featuring "The Yellow Kid" cartoon in 1896, sparking intense circulation battles with William Randolph Hearst's New York Journal. Despite accusations of sensationalism, the World also published significant exposés, such as tenement abuses, before it was eventually sold and merged into the New York World-Telegram in 1931.