1

Her torch has been replaced

Image: Mateus Maia

Lady Liberty is no longer holding her original torch. The first one, made out of copper and covered in gold leaf, was replaced in 1986 due to extensive damage. The current torch sports a 24-karat gold flame, which gleams in the sunlight by day and is illuminated by torchlights at night.

2

What happened to the original torch?

Image: Epicgenius, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The original torch is on display in the Statue of Liberty Museum on Liberty Island. It was removed on July 4, 1984, after leaks from rain and corrosion from the elements damaged it beyond repair. It was replaced in 1986 with the current replica and inaugurated by First Lady Nancy Reagan.

3

The view from the top

Image: Lowe, Jet, creator, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Visitors could originally climb up to a small observation deck inside the Statue of Liberty's torch. However, the structure was damaged in an explosion in 1916, and access to the torch has been closed ever since.

4

Lady Lighthouse

Image: Luke Stackpoole

From 1886 to 1902, the Statue of Liberty served as an official lighthouse, guiding ships and welcoming visitors into New York Harbor with 14 electric lamps housed inside the torch.

5

A gift from France

Image: Albert Fernique, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

To celebrate the centennial of American Independence and the friendship between the American and French nations, the people of France gifted the Statue of Liberty to the United States in 1886.

6

Gustave Eiffel

Image: Carol M. Highsmith, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Gustave Eiffel, the very same engineer behind Paris' most famous tower, designed Lady Liberty's inner iron framework. His design allowed the statue to withstand the strong winds and harsh weather conditions in New York Harbor. The entire puddled iron structure was replaced by corrosion-resistant stainless steel in 1986.

7

She wasn't always green

Image: Maarten van den Heuvel

Lady Liberty's outer shell is made out of copper. It originally had a shiny brown color, but exposure to the elements over time caused the copper to oxidize, giving the statue the famous green patina it is known for.

8

The New Colossus

Image: Gautam Krishnan

Emma Lazarus, the famous American author and poet, was inspired by the Statue of Liberty to write a poem titled The New Colossus . Lines from the sonnet are now inscribed on a bronze plaque on the statue's pedestal.

9

A challenging trek

Image: Zoshua Colah

Visitors to the Statue of Liberty's famous crown observation deck must do so by climbing 354 narrow steps. The view from the top, however, sure is worth it!

10

Visitors from the Seven Seas

Image: Laurenz Heymann

Lady Liberty's crown has seven rays or spikes. The number was chosen to mirror the Seven Seas of ancient literature, as well as the seven continents of the world, meaning Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Antarctica, Europe, and Australia. Through this symbol, the Statue of Liberty extends her message of freedom across the globe.

11

Her left hand

Image: Ron Cogswell from Arlington, Virginia, USA, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Besides the torch in her right hand, Lady Liberty is holding a tablet in her left hand. The tablet reads JULY IV MDCCLXXVI . In Roman numerals, that is July 4, 1776, the date of the American Declaration of Independence.

12

Broken chains

Image: Atsme, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The Statue of Liberty stands 305 feet from the ground to the tip of her torch, making her one of the tallest statues in the world. At her feet lie broken shackles and chains, symbolizing the abolition of slavery, oppression, and tyranny.

1

Ford Mustang

Image: VizAforMemories

Often referred to simply as "the Mustang ," this series manufactured by Ford is one of the quintessential American automobiles.

The Mustang was born in 1964 and has been in production ever since (with the Mustang II being produced from 1974 to 1978), as its popularity transcends borders. Its smart, sporty design has evolved over the years, but it has never lost its pony car label.

Loved by many for its wide range of engine options and powerful performance, the Mustang is more than just a car; it's an icon of American automotive culture. Remember the Mustang GT 390 in the 1968 movie Bullitt ?

2

Chevrolet Corvette

Image: Abdul Bakar

With its iconic two-seater design and a very rich history, the Corvette is a legend that could not be left out of this list.

The Corvette was introduced by Chevrolet in 1953 , some 70 years ago! However, it has aged like fine wine. Far from being out of style, this classic remains a top choice for car enthusiasts worldwide, blending performance, design, heritage, and status.

And as if all that wasn't enough, the Corvette has multiple victories in prestigious endurance races such as the American Le Mans Series .

Fun fact: the Corvette gets its name from a small, fast type of warship!

3

Jeep Wrangler

Image: cody lannom

Famous for its off-road prowess, the Jeep Wrangler is definitely an icon.

The origin of this car perfectly explains its capacity. The Jeep Wrangler has its roots in the Willys MB , a military vehicle used during WWII, renowned for its rugged durability. Of course, the Wrangler has evolved into the version we know today, blending practicality and durability, and displaying features like removable doors .

The Jeep Wrangler's off-road expertise has earned it a global reputation that is hard to beat. As you might already know, a rugged Jeep Wrangler YJ appears in the iconic Jurassic Park . After all, no other car could handle dinosaurs!

4

Ford Model T

Image: Philip Schroeder

Who could forget the iconic Ford Model T ? A car instantly recognizable to everyone, whether you're a car lover or not.

Ford began producing the Model T in 1908 and ceased production in 1927. But in less than 20 years, over 15 million units were made! This incredible feat makes the Model T one of the best-selling cars in history.

As if its beauty wasn't enough, the T was also renowned for its durability and affordability , specifically designed to be accessible to the average American. Do you want to know how much the "Tin Lizzie" cost when it started revolutionizing the streets in the early 20th century? Initially, it was priced at around $850 , but its price even dropped in the years that followed!

5

Cadillac Escalade

Image: Craig Marolf

When Cadillac decided to enter the SUV market, it did so in a big way. In 1998 , the brand released one of its most acclaimed models: the Cadillac Escalade . Imposing from every angle, this SUV has a luxurious design both inside and out, with the quality and style that characterizes the brand.

Beyond its powerful performance, the Escalade distinguishes itself with leading technology . This includes multiple USB ports, high-quality sound systems, and advanced driver assistance systems.

With all these advantages, the Escalade became one of Cadillac's best-sellers and also a popular choice in the luxury SUV market!

6

Ford Thunderbird

Image: Maxim Simonov

In 1955 , Ford spiced up the car scene with their Ford Thunderbird , a stylish two-seat sports car. Quickly becoming an icon, this model was Ford's answer to Chevrolet's Corvette.

The " T-Bird ," as it came to be known, evolved over its production run. In 1961, a significant transformation occurred: it became a four-seat model. With its new sleek design, the Thunderbird earned a new nickname and became the " Bullet Bird ."

Over the years, Ford produced 11 generations of the Thunderbird, each with unique features. Unfortunately, Ford decided to stop production of the T-Bird in 2005 due to declining sales. However, its exceptional qualities and profound impact have made it one of America's classics.

7

Dodge Charger

Image: Tim Meyer

A legendary American muscle car , the Dodge Charger appeared in 1966 , right amid the dynamic 60s and 70s era.

You probably remember the first-generation Dodge Charger, which featured hidden headlights , something quite remarkable in its time! Its V8 engines and high-performance capacities also made it a star in the TV series " The Dukes of Hazzard ."

With many variations over the years, Dodge continues to produce the model to this day, always updating its technology but maintaining some of the main features of its iconic design. Are you among the many fans of this amazing model?

8

Pontiac GTO

Image: Vitali Adutskevich

If we talk about muscle cars , we cannot forget the Pontiac GTO . Born in 1963 , it became an instant hit, produced for eleven years until 1974 . It also made a comeback from 2004 to 2006, creating a new chapter in its history.

Considered by many as the perfect muscle car, the Pontiac GTO stood out for its powerful V8 front engine and its attractive design, which included dual exhausts and hood scoops. It was also available in a wide range of colors.

If you're wondering about its name, the abbreviation "GTO" stands for "Gran Turismo Omologato," Italian for "Grand Touring Homologated."

9

Chevrolet Camaro

Image: Tim Meyer

Classified as a pony car , the Camaro appeared in 1966 as Chevrolet's card to compete with the Ford Mustang. While maintaining its efficiency, speed, and powerful performance , the Chevrolet Camaro has seen its engines evolve across generations, ranging from V6s to V8s.

According to the legend surrounding its creation, the name of this famous model was conceived by Chevrolet's merchandising manager, Bob Lund. While flipping through an English-French dictionary, he found the French word c amaro , which translates as "friend, pal, or comrade." And that was exactly what the brand was looking for in its new pony car: to be a reliable companion for its owner.

10

Tesla Model S

Image: Jp Valery

Despite being a relatively new brand, Tesla has proven that it's more than capable of creating iconic cars.

A good example is the Tesla Model S , an all- electric luxury car that's relatively young, debuting in 2012 . Upon its introduction, it caused a sensation with its spectacular design and technology .

One of the most unique features of this model is its incredible speed. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 2.3 seconds! That's the definition of fast. It is also capable of traveling up to 370 miles on a single charge , highlighting its efficiency among electric cars. Of course, the vehicle's functions are controlled through an elegant touchscreen display. Can you imagine yourself driving this model?

1

The Beale Ciphers - Virginia

In the early 1800s, three coded papers surfaced, said to reveal the location of a hidden treasure in Virginia . Only one cipher (the second) has been partially decoded using the Declaration of Independence, pointing to a stash of gold, silver, and jewels.

Treasure hunters and cryptographers have tried for decades to crack the remaining ciphers. Yet, so far, no one has succeeded.

2

The Georgia Guidestones - Georgia

Erected in 1980, the granite monument carried inscriptions in multiple languages , laying out guidelines for humanity’s future. The massive slabs earned the nickname "America’s Stonehenge."

The mystery lies in who commissioned it. The sponsor used a pseudonym and never revealed their identity. Too bad they were destroyed in 2022 after being damaged by an explosion.

3

The "Wow!" Signal - Ohio, 1977

One night in 1977, Ohio State University’s Big Ear telescope picked up a deep-space radio burst lasting 72 seconds . Astronomer Jerry Ehman circled it and wrote "Wow!" beside the data.

The signal has never been definitively explained. Whether it was a passing comet, a reflection, or something else, no one knows.

4

Roanoke Colony’s "CROATOAN" - North Carolina

In the late 1500s, settlers on Roanoke Island disappeared, leaving only the word "CROATOAN" carved on wood . Their fate remains one of the earliest American mysteries.

Some think they merged with local tribes, while others suggest they relocated. Without proof, the vanished colony remains a puzzle historians love to revisit.

5

The Taos Hum - New Mexico

Since the 1990s, some residents of Taos report hearing a low, steady humming sound . It’s described like a distant diesel engine idling in the desert.

Some studies suggest it may be related to low-frequency industrial noise or tinnitus in some individuals. The reality is, scientists have studied the phenomenon but haven’t pinned down a cause.

6

Marfa Lights - Texas

Out in West Texas, glowing orbs have appeared on the horizon for generations . They shimmer, split, and move in ways that seem inexplicable.

Tourists flock to Marfa hoping to catch a glimpse. Some suggest car headlights or atmospheric tricks, but the mystery remains.

7

Bloop-Like Ocean Sounds - Pacific Ocean

In the 1990s, NOAA hydrophones picked up a booming, low-frequency sound in the Pacific Ocean . Nicknamed "the Bloop," it was louder than known whale calls.

Theories ranged from icequakes to giant sea life. NOAA later concluded the sound was likely caused by large icequakes from Antarctic ice breaking apart.

8

The Upton Chamber - Massachusetts

Hidden in Massachusetts is a stone tunnel leading to a small underground chamber . Its age and purpose are still debated.

Some believe it was a colonial root cellar, while others argue it predates settlers entirely. Without records, the chamber remains an enigmatic piece of New England history.

9

America’s Stonehenge - New Hampshire

This site features stone walls, chambers, and standing slabs . Some argue it was built by Native Americans, while others see evidence of pre-Columbian visitors.

While some alternative theories suggest ancient origins, most archaeologists believe the structures are from the colonial-era. Whatever its origin, it’s a fascinating stop for curious travelers.

10

The Great Serpent Mound - Ohio

In southern Ohio lies a massive prehistoric earthwork shaped like a winding serpent . Stretching over 1,300 feet, it curves and coils across the landscape in striking detail.

Scholars agree it was built by Indigenous peoples, but its purpose is unclear. Some suggest it was a ceremonial site or calendar, while others see cosmic symbolism.

11

The Blythe Intaglios - California

Etched into the Colorado Desert, these giant figures depict humans and animals , some over 170 feet long. They’re best seen from the air, raising questions about how and why they were made.

Created centuries ago by Native Americans, their exact age and purpose remain uncertain.

12

Judaculla Rock - North Carolina

This large boulder is carved with hundreds of mysterious petroglyphs . Shapes, lines, and symbols cover its surface, their meanings long lost to time.

The Cherokee connect the markings to Judaculla, a legendary giant. Whether the rock was a sacred site, a map, or something else, the exact meanings of many carvings remain unknown.