Arial, one of the most commonly used typefaces in the world, has become synonymous with modern digital typography. But despite its ubiquity, its history and design have sparked numerous debates among designers, typographers, and scholars. Unlike other fonts that are revered for their craftsmanship or revolutionary impact on design, Arial’s story is often framed within a more commercial narrative, involving technology, software giants, and even accusations of imitation. To understand Arial’s place in the world of typography, we need to delve into its origins, examine its design, and explore how it became the go-to typeface for countless documents, websites, and brands.
