1

The Crossing (2000)

Image: Emanuel Leutze, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Of course, there had to be a film that reflected at least a small portion of the extensive political and military life of the first president of the United States. The Crossing focuses on the famous Delaware River mission commanded by Washington, a surprise attack against the British that would definitively change the course of the Revolutionary War.

Jeff Daniels' superb performance expertly captures George Washington's bravery and sense of duty, especially in relation to the patriotic vision that drove him to lead America’s independence.

2

Thirteen Days (2000)

Image: Cecil W. Stoughton, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

This historical political thriller dramatizes the intense 13 days during the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962. The film captures John F. Kennedy’s strategic mind and leadership qualities as he navigates diplomatic and military dilemmas to avert a nuclear war with the Soviet Union.

Starring Bruce Greenwood, Thirteen Days showcases a president under immense pressure steering the United States through one of the toughest moments of the Cold War. Greenwood’s nuanced portrayal of Kennedy’s resolve, fear, and commitment to peace offers a riveting glimpse into the decision-making process inside the White House during a pivotal moment in history.

3

Truman (1995)

Image: Greta Kempton, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

This portrayal of Harry S. Truman is a masterful take on an often underestimated president who led our country through the end of World War II and the first years of the Cold War.

In the role of Truman, Gary Sinise effectively captures the 33rd president’s ascent from a modest background to the highest office. Sinise embodies Truman’s integrity and willpower, while bringing up his pragmatic approach to governance, which earned him a well-deserved Golden Globe.

4

The Special Relationship (2010)

Image: Ralph Alswang White House Photograph Office, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The special relationship traces Bill Clinton’s interactions with British Prime Minister Tony Blair between 1997 and 2001, offering viewers front-row insight on power dynamics, how friendship develops in high-level governance, and its impact on global affairs.

Dennis Quaid brings to life the former president’s multifaceted persona, shedding light on his vulnerabilities. He perfectly nails not only Bill Clinton’s magnetic charm but also his ability to navigate complicated political landscapes and balance diplomacy with personal connections.

5

Hyde Park on Hudson (2012)

Image: National Archives and Records Administration, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

This historical drama depicts Franklin D. Roosevelt’s personal life and the complexities of leadership during a weekend visit by the King and Queen of England. Hyde Park on Hudson navigates through the 32nd president’s intimate relationships within his inner circle while working on strengthening the US-UK alliance on the eve of World War II.

Primarily known for his comedic genius, Bill Murray’s portrayal of Roosevelt reveals a lesser-seen side of the former president. Murray manages to capture his charm, wit, and burdens of leadership with a subtle performance blending the president’s public persona with his private vulnerabilities.

6

W. (2008)

Image: d

Oliver Stone’s W. explores George W. Bush’s journey from his early tumultuous years to his tenure in the White House. The film delves into his motivations, decisions regarding the Iraq war, and his personal and political challenges.

Josh Brolin successfully embodies Bush’s distinctive mannerisms, speech patterns, and the dynamics of his relationships with his family and advisers. The actor’s take is critical yet empathetic, providing insight into the former president’s character without caricature, and offering a deeper understanding of the man behind the president.

7

All the Way (2016)

Image: Cecil Stoughton, White House Press Office (WHPO), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

This TV biographical drama focuses on Lyndon B. Johnson’s efforts to pass the Civil Rights Act during his first year in office, while showcasing his persuasive tactics, political dexterity, and the moral challenges he had to deal with.

Bryan Cranston remarkably captures a leader committed to transformative social change who is, at the same time, burdened by the legacy of his predecessor, John F. Kennedy. His embodiment of Johnson’s larger-than-life personality, along with conveying intimate moments of vulnerability, earned Cranston much critical acclaim for bringing humanity to one of America’s most consequential figures.

8

Frost/Nixon (2008)

Image: Robert D. Ward, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Centered around a series of televised interviews between Richard Nixon and British talk show host David Frost, this riveting film showcases a battle of wits and wills. Directed by Ron Howard, Frost/Nixon offers a deeply human look at an isolated president struggling with the consequences of his actions.

Frank Langella plays Nixon in the aftermath of his resignation, as he attempts to salvage his legacy while grappling with the guilt and shame of his downfall. Langella’s masterful depiction of one of America’s most controversial figures goes beyond impersonation, which earned the actor an Academy Award nomination.

9

Amistad (1997)

Image: Mathew Benjamin Brady, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Steven Spielberg’s Amistad revolves around John Quincy Adams’ role as an attorney defending African men who revolted aboard a Spanish slaveship. The legendary Anthony Hopkins portrays Adam’s passionate arguments before the Supreme Court and reveals his commitment to justice and equality.

Hopkins also compellingly conveys Adam’s intelligence, determination, and the weight his legacy as both a former president and a champion of the abolitionist cause represented for him.

10

Lincoln (2012)

Image: George Peter Alexander Healy, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Focused on the final moments of Abraham Lincoln’s life, Steven Spielberg’s biopic highlights the 16th president’s efforts to pass the 13th Amendment, abolishing slavery.

The talented Daniel Day-Lewis delivers an absolutely iconic performance as Lincoln. He embodies the former president’s physicality and voice with such authenticity that viewers are transported to the heart of 19th-century American politics. Day-Lewis also manages to perfectly blend the president’s moral gravity, political savvy, and personal turmoil. His commitment to the role is so evident that it earned him an Oscar for Best Actor.

1

Kool-Aid

Image: Aibek Skakov

Nebraska takes pride in its sweetest invention : Kool-Aid. Created in 1927 in Hastings, the fruity drink became a household favorite. In 1998, Nebraska made it the official state soft drink, much to the delight of nostalgia lovers.

Every August, Hastings hosts the Kool-Aid Days Festival, complete with giant pitchers and endless flavors. The "Kool-Aid Man" himself even made an appearance at the declaration ceremony! Despite some pushback from health advocates, the sugary drink remains an iconic American beverage.

2

Gusty the Cartoon

Image: Afif Ramdhasuma

Oklahoma’s state cartoon character is Gusty , a little weather-forecasting doodle, do you know him? Created by a Tulsa weatherman in the 1950s, Gusty reflected the day’s forecast, holding an umbrella, bracing for tornadoes, or sweating in the heat.

His hand-drawn charm lasted for decades, earning him a place in the Smithsonian. In 2005, Oklahoma made Gusty the official state cartoon character. For Oklahomans, he’s as much a part of the forecast as the storm warnings!

3

Whoopie Pie

Image: Holly Spangler

Maine takes its desserts seriously. So seriously that in 2011, the state named the whoopie pie its official treat . This fluffy confection consists of two chocolate cake rounds sandwiching a creamy white filling.

It’s been a local favorite since the 1920s, though Pennsylvania also claims to have invented it. Maine, however, celebrates its whoopie pie heritage with an annual festival featuring the world’s largest whoopie pie. The origins of the name are debated, but regardless, it’s a nostalgic, delicious bite of history. And yes, it pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee!

4

Tully Monster

Image: Jacqueline Martinez

Illinois’ state fossil sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie: the Tully Monster. This strange, ancient sea creature swam in Illinois’ prehistoric waters about 300 million years ago. Discovered in 1958, its worm-like body, stalked eyes, and pincer-like mouth left scientists scratching their heads for decades.

It wasn’t until 2016 that researchers finally identified it as a vertebrate, possibly related to lampreys, a fish. Named after its discoverer, Francis Tully, this oddball fossil became Illinois’ official state fossil in 1989. How weird is that?

5

Clogging

Image: Ahmad Odeh

Forget the square dance, North Carolina’s official folk dance is clogging , and it’s as energetic as it sounds. This fast-paced footwork evolved from Appalachian traditions and is often performed to bluegrass music.

Clog dancers wear special shoes with taps to create a percussive beat while they move. The style has roots in Irish, English, and African dance, blending cultures into a wonderful American tradition. If you ever visit a North Carolina festival, you’ll likely see folks kicking up their heels to some lively fiddle tunes.

6

Brewer’s Yeast

Image: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Oregon took a microscopic approach to state symbols when it named brewer’s yeast its official microbe in 2013. This tiny fungus, scientifically called Saccharomyces cerevisiae , is the secret behind beer and bread. You like it now, huh?

It ferments sugars, producing alcohol and carbon dioxide, making it essential to Oregon’s craft beer scene. The decision wasn’t just for fun; it’s also that beer contributes billions to the state’s economy. Just to follow the trend, Illinois later named a mold used in penicillin production as its own state microbe. Apparently, microbes deserve their moment in the spotlight, too!

7

Jousting

Image: Casper Johansson

In a move straight out of the Middle Ages, Maryland named jousting its official state sport in 1962. Yes, that jousting you’re thinking of, knights on horseback charging at each other with lances.

While modern jousting is more about precision than knocking opponents off their steeds, it still draws a crowd. Today’s version involves riders aiming to spear small rings while galloping at full speed. Don’t worry, in 2004, lacrosse also became the state’s official team sport, but jousting still holds its title.

8

The Teddy Bear

Image: Izabelly Marques

Mississippi’s official state toy, the teddy bear, has an adorable backstory. It all began in 1902 when President Theodore Roosevelt refused to shoot a bear during a hunting trip. A political cartoon about the event went viral (for its time), inspiring a Brooklyn couple to create "Teddy’s Bear."

The stuffed animal became a national sensation, and the name stuck. A century later, Mississippi made it official, naming the teddy bear its state toy in 2002. It’s a rare example of a state symbol with a direct presidential connection. But cute anyways!

9

Milk

Image: Anita Jankovic

Believe it or not, 22 states claim milk as their official beverage . But it has nothing to do with keeping the bones strong! This dairy dominance started in the 1980s when milk industry lobbyists pushed for recognition.

While it’s a wholesome, calcium-packed choice, it’s not the most exciting. Some states, like Rhode Island (coffee milk) and Alabama (whiskey), took a more unique approach to the state beverage. Now, whether you drink it or not, milk has certainly made its mark on state symbols. And hey, at least it pairs well with cookies!

10

Natchitoches Meat Pie

Image: Patryk Pastewski

When you think of Louisiana cuisine, you probably think of gumbo or jambalaya, but did you know the state also has an official meat pie ? The Natchitoches meat pie is a deep-fried delight filled with seasoned pork and beef.

It dates back to the late 1700s, and it was named after the local Natchitoches Indian tribe. Declared a state symbol in 2003, it’s celebrated every September at the Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival. The festival features music, cooking competitions, and, of course, a meat pie eating contest!

1

Norma Jeane Mortenson

Image: Juliane Liebermann

She’s the iconic blonde from 1950s cinema, famously portrayed by artists like Andy Warhol! Films like Some Like It Hot (1959) and Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953) catapulted her to stardom.

Here’s another hint: This was the real name of the woman who famously sang, " Happy birthday, Mr. President! " You got it?

2

Frances Ethel Gumm

Image: Chau Le

If we say " red ruby slippers, " who comes to mind? Remembered, among other things, for her melodious voice, this actress starred in classics like A Star Is Born (1954) and Meet Me in St. Louis (1944). But the role that made her truly unforgettable was Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz (1939). Have you guessed it yet?

3

Marion Robert Morrison

Image: Ashim D’Silva

A true gem of Hollywood’s Golden Age, this actor became a legend in Westerns and war films. His commanding presence and deep voice made him the perfect fit for roles like Ringo Kid in Stagecoach (1939) and Ethan Edwards in The Searchers (1956). His birth name was Marion Robert Morrison, but in our hearts, he'll forever be "The Duke."

4

Bernard Herschel Schwartz

Image: Jordan Whitfield

With his bright smile and clean-cut style, he was considered one of the most handsome actors of the 20th century. Bernard Herschel Schwartz starred alongside the blonde from our first entry in the legendary Some Like It Hot (1959) . One of the highlights of this blue-eyed star’s career was his versatility, as he showcased his talent in both dramatic and comedic roles.

5

Margarita Carmen Cansino

Image: Brady Bellini

If anyone ever blended talent and beauty to perfection, it was her! One of the most celebrated stars of the 1940s, she rose to fame with the 1942 film You Were Never Lovelier , but her most iconic role was in Gilda (1946) . Her elegant presence and striking red hair made her an unforgettable symbol of the silver screen. In addition, she also had a short marriage to the very famous Orson Welles. Who is she?

6

Issur Danielovitch

Image: Austrian National Library

Maybe his real name might not ring a bell, but his stage name is legendary! His career took off in the 1940s and 1950s, with tough-guy roles that made him stand out, like his performance in Champion (1949), where he portrayed a talented boxer. As a final clue, we can't forget his unmistakable cleft chin!

7

Norma Jeane Mortenson: Marilyn Monroe

Image: Susi Kleiman

Norma Jeane Mortenson was the birth name of the iconic and incomparable Marilyn Monroe! That’s right—the famous actress was born with that name on June 1, 1926, in Los Angeles, California. As her Hollywood career took off, she changed her name to Marilyn Monroe, inspired by Broadway star Marilyn Miller , a celebrated actress and dancer of the 1920s and early 1930s.

8

Frances Ethel Gumm: Judy Garland

Image: Aman

The legendary star we know as Judy Garland was actually born Frances Ethel Gumm on June 10, 1922, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Coming from a show-business family, she received a stage name at the tender age of 13. That's right—by that age, she had already signed her contract with MGM.

9

Marion Robert Morrison: John Wayne

Image: Eniko Polgar

Marion Robert Morrison was the birth name of one of Hollywood's most beloved and famous actors—the incredible John Wayne . He changed his name when he was still young in the early 1930s , at the start of his career, something that was very common at the time. And who chose his legendary stage name? That would be Fox Studios !

10

Bernard Herschel Schwartz: Tony Curtis

Image: Levi Meir Clancy

Bernard Herschel Schwartz may be a difficult name to remember, which is why this iconic actor changed it to Tony Curtis. Born in New York in 1925, he had a passion for acting from a young age. However, Hollywood wasn't his first career path—before pursuing acting, Curtis joined the Navy during World War II!

11

Margarita Carmen Cansino: Rita Hayworth

Image: Unseen Histories

We all remember the iconic Rita Hayworth , but many don’t know her real name—Margarita Carmen Cansino! Quite different, right? Why did she change her name? Well, when Margarita signed a contract with Columbia Pictures in the late 1930s, the studio believed she needed a shorter, more artistic, and memorable stage name. And so, Rita Hayworth was born—a star who would become an indelible part of American film history.

12

Issur Danielovitch: Kirk Douglas

Image: Natalie Parham

"Issur Danielovitch" may sound exotic, but it was the birth name of the legendary star we know as Kirk Douglas . Before rising to fame as an actor and film producer, Issur worked various jobs to help support his family. In 1940 , he made the bold decision to move to Hollywood and pursue his dream career: acting. It was then that his great stage name was born.