For many years, Esquire has published its annual Dubious Achievement Awards, which recall unusual events of the preceding year. They are written in reverse order compared to most humor; the punchline comes first in the headline, and the copy below provides the setup by explaining the actual event. This format has been much-imitated by other publications. As a running gag, the annual article almost always ends with an old photo of Richard Nixon laughing with the caption, "Why is this man laughing?"
Note: In England, the title of esquire belongs by right of birth to the eldest sons of knights and their eldest sons in perpetual succession; to the eldest sons of younger sons of peers and their eldest sons in perpetual succession.
Esquire as used anywhere at this website is clearly intended to be an honorary addage referring to individuals that are ladies and gentlemen and that these people treat others in a similar way.
An esquire was a candidate for knighthood, acting as attendant and shield bearer for a knight.
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