1

"White Christmas" by Bing Crosby (1942)

Image: Ivan Dorofeev

This is a perfect choice to start with. One of the most iconic holiday songs of all time, "White Christmas," definitely holds a special place in the hearts and minds of all Americans.

Released in 1942, the song became an instant hit and was played on every radio station. It even went on to sell over 50 million copies worldwide!

Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, and Michael Bublé are just a few of the legendary artists who made their own version of this classic song. It's one of our favorites for the holiday season!

2

"Heartbreak Hotel" by Elvis Presley (1956)

Image: Drew Beamer

The 1950s introduced one of the most exciting musical innovations to the spotlight: rock and roll. And when it comes to rock, we have to mention the King.

In 1956, Elvis released his iconic "Heartbreak Hotel," which had everyone singing along at the top of their lungs with the unforgettable line, "You made me so sad, oh, so sad."

An undeniable hit, "Heartbreak Hotel" was pivotal for Elvis Presley's career, as the song became his first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. We've already rushed to play it; we hope you do too!

3

"Johnny B. Goode" by Chuck Berry (1958)

Image: Erik Mclean

We know we promised "only one per decade," but it's just too hard to stick to that rule! We couldn't resist including this legendary Chuck Berry track.

Yes, we're talking about "Johnny B. Goode," the 1958 hit that could make even a statue dance! When this song hits your ears, it’s nearly impossible not to give in to its charm and start moving. With its unforgettable electric guitar riff right from the start, this tune is instantly recognizable to anyone who has ever set foot in this beautiful country.

Not only was this song an instant hit, but it also gained even more fans when it was featured in the 1985 film Back to the Future.

4

"Like a Rolling Stone" by Bob Dylan (1965)

Image: weston m

Now, let's pause the dancing for a moment to focus on the lyrics and melody of one of the greatest songs ever.

"Like a Rolling Stone," released by the amazing Bob Dylan in the year 1965, introduced listeners to Dylan's iconic rock sound. Acclaimed and celebrated by critics and audiences alike, the song features something unusual for the time of its release: it's almost 6 minutes long!

But its lengthy duration did not hinder the track from becoming a hit, and it certainly didn't prevent it from evolving into a classic.

5

"Hotel California" by Eagles (1976)

Image: Diane Picchiottino

When someone mentions the Eagles, the first song that instantly comes to our minds is the iconic "Hotel California," released in 1977.

This hit features great lyrics and an exceptional sound, reaching millions of listeners and inspiring covers in different musical genres and languages. While interpretations of its lyrics are many and varied, one of the most popular theories is that it metaphorically explores the dark side of rock stardom.

Featuring one of the most iconic guitar solos in rock history, "Hotel California" remains a timeless gem that we continue to enjoy to this day.

6

"Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson (1982)

Image: Markus Spiske

It's time to put on your dancing shoes again. Just two seconds of this song is enough for anyone on Earth to recognize it.

Every time Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" plays, it's like magic—everyone starts moving. And that has been true since its release in the early 1980s. In fact, the song spent seven consecutive weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the best-selling singles in history!

Did you know that Michael Jackson first showcased his Moonwalk dance during a performance of this hit?

7

"Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana (1991)

Image: Jurian Kersten

This song is the quintessential symbol of the 1990s and one of the most defining tracks of grunge.

"Smells Like Teen Spirit" was released in 1991 as the lead single from Nirvana's second and most iconic album, Nevermind . It quickly became a sensation and is often considered an anthem for Generation X.

There’s a humorous story behind the song’s title: Kurt Cobain's friend wrote "Smells Like Teen Spirit" on a wall as a joke, and the singer just loved it. It turns out "Teen Spirit" was actually a brand of deodorant, but Cobain didn't know that!

8

"I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston (1992)

Image: israel palacio

Get ready to grab some tissues, because this one might bring on a few tears.

Remember the 1992 movie The Bodyguard ? Beyond the incredible performances of Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, one of the most celebrated aspects of the movie is its beloved soundtrack.

The song was originally written and recorded by the great Dolly Parton in 1973, almost 20 years before the movie. Whitney Houston recorded "I Will Always Love You" in 1992 specifically for The Bodyguard . Her cover surpassed the original version in popularity, becoming one of the most listened-to romantic hits of all time.

9

"Umbrella" by Rihanna ft. Jay-Z (2007)

Image: Kittitep Khotchalee

Welcome to the 21st century, where everything is a bit more accelerated.

You've probably heard, "Under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh." That's the catchy chorus from "Umbrella" by Rihanna featuring Jay-Z, released in 2007 as part of her album Good Girl Gone Bad.

The song got people all over the world dancing and singing along, topping charts in the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and other countries.

Its iconic music video, featuring rain and an impressive umbrella choreography, inspired countless replicas.

10

"Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars (2014)

Image: Greyson Joralemon

If you feel like dancing, this is the track you should play. This song is all about rhythm!

Released in 2014, "Uptown Funk" combines modern sounds with a funky retro beat that immediately takes you back to the 1980s. This mix was the key to captivating everyone! This song quickly became popular, with everyone knowing the lyrics by heart. Its success was unprecedented, spending an incredible 14 weeks at #1 on the US Billboard Hot 100.

With its upbeat vibe and infectious rhythm, this is one of the defining songs of the mid-2010s.

1

Lake Superior lives up to its name

Image: Jacob Skowronek

Lake Superior is the largest, deepest, and coldest of the five. It holds more water than the other four lakes combined—enough to cover North and South America in a foot of water. At 31,700 square miles, it’s the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world.

2

Only one is fully American

Image: Ioann-Mark Kuznietsov

Lake Michigan is the only Great Lake entirely within the jurisdiction of the United States. It touches four states—Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan—and its shores are home to major cities like Chicago and Milwaukee. As if this wasn’t enough, this lake also boasts the world’s largest freshwater sand dunes.

3

They create their own weather

Image: Srikanta H. U

The Great Lakes have a powerful influence on regional weather, especially through the phenomenon of "lake-effect snow." As cold air sweeps over the warmer lakes, it picks up moisture, resulting in heavy snowfall in cities like Buffalo, Cleveland, and Chicago. The lakes also generate localized storms that can rival oceanic tempests in intensity. Yet, not all is harsh; these unique conditions help create microclimates that are perfect for agriculture, supporting a range of crops across the region.

4

A shipwreck graveyard

Image: Vlad Tchompalov

Prone to stormy and unpredictable weather, the Great Lakes are home to over 6,000 shipwrecks. The most infamous of these, the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, sank in Lake Superior during a violent storm in 1975, inspiring Gordon Lightfoot's iconic ballad. In fact, many of these wrecks are remarkably well-preserved, thanks to the cold freshwater, which slows down the decay process and keeps these sunken ships intact for decades.

5

They contain a fifth of the world’s freshwater

Image: Sime Basioli

The Great Lakes hold about 21% of the world's fresh surface water. That’s roughly six quadrillion gallons—enough to submerge the lower 48 states under about 10 feet of water. Given this staggering quantity, it's no surprise that the lakes are crucial to American drinking water, agriculture, and industry.

6

The Erie Canal’s role

Image: Lucy M

Opened in 1825, the Erie Canal linked the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean via the Hudson River, transforming trade and settlement patterns. It played a pivotal role in making New York City an economic powerhouse and significantly accelerated the movement of goods between the Midwest and the East Coast. While most traffic now flows through the larger St. Lawrence Seaway, the Erie Canal remains a key chapter in U.S. history.

7

When the Niagara Falls stood still

Image: Vishwesh Jirgale

In 1969, engineers temporarily halted the flow of Niagara Falls due to concerns that erosion was progressing so rapidly the falls could disappear in a few years. After a thorough inspection by the Army Corps of Engineers, they concluded that no immediate maintenance was necessary. Despite this, the endeavor was far from futile—it provided valuable insights that would guide future preservation efforts for the iconic falls.

8

America’s forgotten "Third Coast"

Image: Richard Main

The Great Lakes coastline spans about 10,900 miles, which makes it longer than the U.S. East and West Coasts combined. This hidden "Third Coast" features sandy beaches, towering cliffs, and picturesque lighthouses, making it a popular destination for tourism and outdoor recreation.

9

Once an ancient ocean

Image: Andrzej Kryszpiniuk

Millions of years ago, the region now holding the Great Lakes was covered by an ancient sea. Over time, glaciers carved out the massive basins, which filled with meltwater after the Ice Age. The evidence of this transformation is still visible in the region’s fossils and rock formations.

10

Chicago River’s historic reversal

Image: Jake Leonard

In 1900, engineers reversed the flow of the Chicago River to prevent sewage from polluting Lake Michigan, the city’s drinking water source. Using a system of canals, the river was redirected toward the Mississippi River watershed, an astonishing feat of engineering that still works to this day.

11

Protected by an international treaty

Image: Hermes Rivera

The 1909 Boundary Waters Treaty between the U.S. and Canada governs the Great Lakes, ensuring cooperative water management. It led to the creation of the International Joint Commission, which helps both nations resolve disputes and protect this vital natural resource.

1

The Mayflower

Image: William Halsall, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

In 1620, about 100 passengers set sail on the Mayflower , a merchant ship that usually carried goods, to start a life in the New World. They left England in September and in November landed in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, putting the first stone in the foundation of the future American Nation.

The trip lasted two long months full of storms and perils. Finally, the ship, which was intended to land in Virginia, spotted the coastline up North in New England. The Mayflower pilgrims decided to stay in the area previously named Plymouth by famous explorer John Smith. During the first winter, the Mayflower served as a source of shelter . Although only half of the Pilgrims survived, they eventually founded the Plymouth Colony, celebrated the first American Thanksgiving with the Pokanoket people, and were able to establish a self-sufficient economy based on hunting, farming, and trading.

2

The Stagecoach

Image: Edward Joseph Holslag, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Before the invention of trains and automobiles, animal power was the main form of transportation. People, goods, and even mail would travel by horse, donkey, oxen, and pulled coaches and wagons, connecting cities with rural parts of the country. In the United States, the carriage era started in the late 17th century and lasted until the early 1900s when the automobile replaced horse-drawn vehicles.

The stagecoach, in particular, was the main public vehicle responsible for the conquest of the American West. It traveled along predetermined routes and had stops every 12 or 50 miles where people could rest and grab a bite to eat and horses could be changed. Moving goods and people throughout the territory meant the growth of cities, the settling of rural areas, and the creation of wealth . In this sense, carriages played a key role in the transportation revolution that transformed American life forever.

3

The Clermont

Image: Samuel Ward Stanton (d1912), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Although steamboats began to be developed in the late 1700s by the Scottish engineer James Watt, and that John Fitch was technically the first to build a steamboat in the United States in 1787, the North River Steamboat would be the one to make it into the history books .

This boat, also known as The Clermont , was designed by American inventor Robert Fulton. On August 17, 1807, this 142-foot-long vessel left New York City for Albany, constituting the first commercial steamboat service in the world . With a group of special guests aboard, the trip up the Hudson River took a total of 32 hours, at about 5 miles per hour. After this inaugural expedition, Fulton continued to build more boats, improving engine and propulsion design and making the steamboat a practical means of transportation. The success of The Clermont certainly changed river traffic and trade on major American rivers for years to come.

4

The American Railway System

Image: Popular Graphic Arts, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

There’s no doubt that trains had a significant role in shaping the landscape of the country. The origins of trains can be found in the ancient world, back when causeways and wooden rails were used to guide wagons. However, it would not be until the invention of the steam locomotive in the early 1800s that the history of transportation would be forever changed , spurring an industrial revolution around the world. And The United States was no exception.

The construction of new factories drove the need for materials to be transported over large distances, and railway travel provided the perfect solution. The concept of constructing a railroad in the U.S. was first conceived in 1812 by Colonel John Stevens. Yet, the first American railroad, the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, was built in 1827 . For the next 50 years, the government would issue grants to build railroads across the country, which became a very lucrative investment for companies, leading to economic growth and the development of new towns and cities.

5

The San Francisco Cable Car

Image: Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Did you know that the cable car was invented in San Francisco in the late 1800s? It was developed by Andrew Smith Hallidie based on mining systems and is a symbol of the city still today. Clay Street Hill Railroad began public service on September 1, 1873, and it was an instant success. Other companies followed suit and launched their versions of Hallidie's patented system in the following years, totaling 53 miles of track across the city.

Later, although the electric street car, a lot cheaper to build and maintain, became the vehicle of choice for city transit, cable cars continued to be better equipped for steep hills. In 1947 the city Mayor urged to "get rid of all cable lines" leading a committee to launch a public campaign to save this iconic vehicle. Even celebrities rallied for the cause and ultimately the cable car system survived the attempt, specifically because of its great cultural value, especially among the thousands of tourists who visit San Francisco every year.

6

The Columbia Bicycle

Image: Boston Public Library, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

In 1878, Civil War veteran Colonel Albert A. Pope, inspired by a British bike he saw at the Philadelphia World’s Fair, hired a sewing machine company to make the first American bicycle . The brand went on to be called Columbia , and by 1888 was manufacturing about 5,000 high-quality bikes a year. However, for a couple of years, it would not be seen as a means of transportation but as pure entertainment.

Later, with the development of the British Rover safety bike, bicycles were no longer limited to athletes and the brave. Pope started selling these easier-to-ride vehicles and the American bicycle industry finally took off in 1890. By the beginning of the 20th century, 1 million bikes were produced in the U.S. yearly and people were even riding them to work every day.

7

The First American Car

Image: Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Few people know that the first successfully American manufactured car was actually developed by bicycle makers. In the Autumn of 1893, brothers Charles and Frank Duryea road-tested the first gasoline-powered automobile in Chicopee, Massachusetts . It was, in fact, an old horse-drawn buggy into which the brothers installed a 4 HP, single-cylinder gasoline engine.

By 1899 there were around thirty companies manufacturing cars in the U.S. One of the most representative staples of the history of automotive manufacturing in the country is, no doubt about it, the Ford Model T . This "affordable" car was intended for the American middle class and it was first produced in 1908 in Detroit. Within days of its release, over 15,000 Ford cars were sold and the popularity of this iconic American company is still relevant today.

8

The Tremont Street Line

Image: Boston Transit Commission, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The first subway in America was built during the second phase of the Industrial Revolution in Boston, Massachusetts in 1897. This cutting-edge mode of transport was possible thanks to the invention of the electric motor by Frank Sprague in 1866 . But, why Boston? In the late 19th century, bustling Boston had a street congestion problem due to overcrowding and frequent blizzards and needed an out-of-the-box solution.

City officials agreed the best thing to do in a city with narrow colonial streets was to build an underground subway. Finally, on September 1, 1897, a four-track subway line between Boylston Street and Park Street was opened to the public . Additional lines and stations have been added throughout the following centuries, ushering in a new era in American public transportation.

9

The 1903 Wright Flyer

Image: John T. Daniels, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

On December 17, 1903, a powered airplane invented by brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright made the first sustained flight over the skies of North Carolina . The Wright Flyer —also known as the _Kitty Hawk_— was a single-place biplane that managed to fly 852 ft on its fourth attempt before it was blown over on landing. The aircraft was later repaired but never flew again —although you can now visit it at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.

After this exceptional achievement by the Wright brothers, the progress of American aviation never ceased to amaze. For example, in 1910 the St. Petersburg–Tampa Airboat Line started to operate and although it lasted only three months, it is now considered the United States’ first airline. By 1918 the U.S. Post Office was using airplanes to transport mail across the country . Finally, in 1958 Pan American ushered in the Jet Age with the iconic Boeing 707.

10

The Apollo 11

Image: Project Apollo Archive, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

From the 1950s onwards, the Soviet Union and the United States embarked on a space race that made possible an unprecedented program of scientific exploration. On April 12, 1961

the Soviets managed to send the first person into space. In response, just 23 days after Yuri Gagarin, the first American man entered space aboard the Freedom 7 Mercury capsule . Alan Shepard’s trip lasted only 15 minutes and 28 seconds but it was more than enough to mark the beginning of an unprecedented revolution. Who would have thought that only 8 years later we would be transporting humans to the moon?

The story of Apollo 11 is well known, yet it deserves a special place in the history of American transportation , which is by no means limited to the Earth. Without the development of space shuttles, it would be impossible to imagine the future of transportation, a future that will surely be defined by the conquest of the unknown.