1

Mickey Mouse

Image: Kadyn Pierce

We’ll start strong with what’s probably the most famous cartoon character in the world. When you think about it, it’s rather uncanny how instantly recognizable Mickey Mouse is: It only takes drawing three small circles for virtually anyone in the world to identify Disney’s iconic mascot.

However, while nowadays Mickey acts more like a spokesperson for Disney, he got his start as a groundbreaking cartoon character, featured in now legendary shorts like "Steamboat Willie", "The Plow Boy", and "The Barn Dance". Perhaps more famous is Mickey’s short included in the feature film "Fantasia", in which he plays a clumsy sorcerer’s apprentice.

2

Charlie Brown & Snoopy

Image: Joshua Carl

We couldn’t possibly add the main character of the "Peanuts" newspaper strips without including his iconic black and white dog. Charlie Brown and Snoopy have been featured in several TV shows, including many fondly remembered Christmas specials.

Charlie Brown’s "aw-shucks" attitude and Snoopy’s mischievous charisma have truly cemented them as two of the most popular cartoon characters in history. Since their first TV appearance in 1965, this duo is still featured in new specials and films, with their latest show premiering in 2021.

3

Garfield

Image: Jason Yuen

Another newspaper strip-turned-animated character, Garfield is one of the most relatable characters in this list. Now, you might be thinking "What on God’s green earth do I have in common with a cartoon orange cat?" Well, more than you think: Garfield’s smarts, love for food, and utter disdain for Mondays truly turned him into one of America’s favorite cartoon pets.

Garfield’s jump from Jim Davis’ comics to TV first came in the early 80s, through a number of Emmy-nominated specials that included "Here Comes Garfield", "Garfield on the Town", and "Garfield in the Rough". In 1988, our favorite feline debuted in his very own TV show called "Garfield and Friends".

4

Scooby-Doo

Image: Brandon Salabarría

Is your town haunted by strange apparitions, dastardly creatures, or terrifying monsters? Then it sounds like you need the help of four meddling kids and their dog! Scooby-Doo revolutionized cartoons by adding crime-solving to a mostly comedic genre. Every week, the amateur detectives of "Mystery Inc." would solve a mystery, unmasking a no-good villain pretending to be some sort of fantastical creature.

The gang was aided by Scooby, their cowardly yet lovable Great Dane. Although he preferred eating snacks over solving mysteries, he ultimately always helped his friends whenever they needed him. Fun fact: Did you know that Scooby’s name was inspired by a Frank Sinatra song?

5

The Flintstones

Image: Bekir Uğur

Did you know that our favorite prehistoric family was the very first animated series featured in a prime time slot? That goes to show how much America loved the Flintstones : Every week, millions of families turned to their TV screens to laugh away with Fred, Wilma, Barney, and Betty’s adventures.

Set in the fictional town of Bedrock, "The Flintstones" featured a rather imaginative depiction of the Stone Age, mixing prehistoric elements with modern issues. Perhaps most famously, the show depicted prehistoric versions of modern appliances, like an octopus dishwasher or a dinosaur-can opener.

6

The Jetsons

Image: Rock'n Roll Monkey

While in "The Flintstones" Hannah-Barbera showcased the adventures of a Prehistoric family, the iconic animation studio went in the opposite direction with " The Jetsons ": For this show, the studio asked the question "How would the typical Space Age American family be?"

This show follows the everyday life of the Jetson family, comprised of George, Jane, Judy, and Elroy Jetson. Just like "The Flintstones", the show is fondly remembered for reimagining everyday technology: It predicted video calls and automated helpers decades before the first iPhone was produced.

7

Tom & Jerry

Image: Teresa Jang

Who says rivals can’t make up a good duo? If anything, Tom and Jerry’s legacy was built in this constant and neverending bickering, resulting in hilarious and exciting confrontations that don’t usually end up good for this beloved tomcat.

Another animated treasure conceived by the minds of William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, Tom and Jerry made use of these two characters’ insane charisma: Although they were mostly silent, their expressions and resourcefulness truly made them unforgettable. Several "Tom & Jerry" shorts received Academy Awards, including the fan-favorite episode "The Cat Concerto."

8

Popeye

Image: thomas RICHARD

If Garfield made us love lasagna, then Popeye had the slightly more difficult mission of making kids enjoy eating their spinach. And yet, this iconic sailor made such a daunting task look easy by showcasing the Herculean strength this simple vegetable gave him.

Popeye made his big screen debut in 1933 after Betty Boop creator Max Fleischer adapted the character’s adventures into a series of shorts. Fleischer was the first to include Popeye’s love for spinach, turning it into the character’s most famous trait. Whenever he was in trouble, Popeye would turn to a can of spinach that would always give him the strength needed to save his beloved Olive Oyl from the hands of the villainous Brutus.

9

Yogi Bear

Image: Jessica Weiller

If you ever find yourself enjoying a gorgeous day in the beautiful (although fictional) "Jellystone Park", keep an eye on your picnic basket! Just a small lapse is all Yogi Bear (and his trusted companion, Boo-Boo Bear) need to take your delicious refreshments. Created by Hanna-Barbera in 1958, Yogi first appeared as a supporting character in "The Huckleberry Hound Show", but he soon found his way into the hearts of the American public.

Yogi was as charming as he was mischievous: He would often speak in rhyme and come up with elaborate plans that ultimately blew up on his face. Yogi was constantly evading Ranger Smith, the overworked park ranger tasked with keeping visitors' food safe from this beloved bear.

10

Looney Tunes

Image: Portuguese Gravity

We’ll end this article with a bit of a pun since this cartoon series is known for its send-off message " That’s all Folks! " Just like Mickey Mouse and Tom & Jerry, the Looney Tunes come straight from the Golden Age of American animation, and it truly shows: Not only are their cartoons insanely funny, but they have remained relevant and inspiring since their debut in the 1930s.

Looney Tunes introduced the world to iconic characters like Bugs Bunny, Porky Pig, Daffy Dug, Wile E. Coyote, and the Road Runner. Their charming personalities, wacky adventures, and quirky manners truly marked a turning point in the history of American cartoons.

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

Gold Rush myths bubbled up immediately

Image: Tomáš Malík

It didn’t take long for the truth to get buried. As soon as gold was discovered, the stories started to shimmer. Tales of instant wealth, golden boulders, and rivers gleaming with nuggets.

Letters home were often exaggerated, and newspapers sensationalized every find. These myths fueled the frenzy and caused proverbial FOMO all over the world. People wanted to see it for themselves.

2

The best Western business wasn’t in fact gold

Image: Stefan Münz

If you wanted to get rich during the gold rush, you had better chances opening a store than mining. That was the golden rule for smart entrepreneurs like Levi Strauss, who didn’t strike it rich in a streambed, but in a sewing room. Another legend, Samuel Brannan, made a fortune selling picks, pans, and shovels —not gold.

3

The "49ers" were actually latecomers

Image: Emilie

The famed "49ers," the nickname for those swept up in the gold frenzy in 1849, weren’t the first on the scene. There’s a plot twist. Gold was discovered in January 1848 at Sutter’s Mill.

But the news spread slowly . By the time the world caught on, most of the easily accessible gold had already been plucked from riverbeds by locals, soldiers, and early arrivals.

4

Thousands came from China and South America

Image: rc.xyz NFT gallery

The Gold Rush was a global stampede . Tens of thousands of Chinese immigrants crossed the Pacific, some bringing generations of mining knowledge with them. Others came from Chile, Peru, and Mexico, arriving in San Francisco to find opportunity.

5

Women were there not just as camp followers

Image: Michael & Diane Weidner

Women were there too, not just as wives, but as businesswomen, cooks, hoteliers, and even miners. Take Luzena Wilson, a widow who hauled her children west and set up a boarding house for miners. Her clean beds and hot meals turned into a booming business.

Others ran laundries, tended bar, or staked their own claims. In a lawless land where survival meant creativity, many women found fortune in hard work.

6

Some came from Hawaii, Russia, and Europe

Image: Trey Hollins

They called them " Argonauts ," a romantic nod to the Greek myth of Jason and his quest for the Golden Fleece. And like the legend, the real Gold Rush was international. Adventurers came not just from the American East, but from as far as Russia’s Pacific coast, the Hawaiian Islands, and every corner of Europe.

7

Gold Rush towns became ghost towns

Image: Stefan Münz

Take Bodie, for example. A lawless hotspot where saloons outnumbered schools. At its peak, it had over 10,000 residents. A few decades later, it was all tumbleweeds and creaky wood .

Once the gold ran out, so did the people. Tools were abandoned and whole towns vanished almost overnight, leaving behind eerie remnants.

8

The "Gold Fever" spread worldwide

Image: suradeach saetang

Once word of gold reached distant shores, "gold fever" spread around the world . Australia had its own rush by 1851. The Klondike in Canada followed in the 1890s, and South Africa’s rich deposits turned Johannesburg into a boomtown in the 1880s.

Prospectors chased hope, not just gold. Each new report of found gold sparked a fresh migration, with fortune-seekers packing up and heading to the hot spots.

9

Gold mining required team effort

Image: Elena Mozhvilo

Forget the image of the lone prospector whistling by the river . That only worked for a short time.

As surface gold dried up, miners turned to hard labor, which involved blasting rock, diverting rivers, and eventually using powerful water cannons in a process called hydraulic mining. It was expensive. Teams of men pooled resources, hired help, and invested in equipment.

10

Many "Gold Seekers" never even made it to California

Image: James Lee

Getting to California in the 1840s was no stroll through the prairie. Hundreds of the hopefuls who set out never arrived. Some perished on the overland trails due to disease, accidents, or exhaustion.

The sea route around Cape Horn was no solution; it was just longer and colder. Some turned back. Others settled in Oregon or Utah. A few found fortune far from the gold fields.

11

The "Gold Rush" fueled California's statehood

Image: Emre Ayata

In 1848, California was a sleepy outpost with little U.S. oversight. By 1850, it had boomed into a booming, brawling land with more than enough people.

The rush had brought merchants, farmers, lawyers, and politicians. With them came the push for schools, railroads, and laws. California skipped the usual phase of being a U.S. territory and leapfrogged straight into statehood.

12

Women and children wrote some of the best eyewitness accounts

Image: The Cleveland Museum of Art

Some of the most vivid details of this era came from women and children who chronicled the chaos . Their letters and diaries tell of lonely cabins, muddy streets, makeshift schools, and the daily drama of camp life.

Women like Louise Clappe (aka "Dame Shirley") wrote witty, unfiltered dispatches from the Sierra Nevada. Young girls described the thrill of arriving in San Francisco and the terror of crossing the plains.

13

The Gold Rush didn't end in 1850

Image: Michael & Diane Weidner

By the time most folks arrived, the easy pickings were gone, and the story was just getting started.

The gold fever didn’t vanish in a year. Prospecting surged well into the 1850s and beyond. Some of the biggest strikes, like Nevada’s Comstock Lode in 1859, came after the main rush was supposedly over. By then, mining had evolved into an industrial enterprise, with machinery, corporations, and deeper digs.