1

Coca-Cola

Back in 1886, an Atlanta pharmacist named John Pemberton mixed up a syrup meant to cure headaches , never guessing it would become the world's favorite fizzy drink. He first sold it at a local soda fountain for just five cents a glass, with bookkeeper Frank Robinson even coming up with the name and script logo.

Early on, the company struggled with recipe secrecy issues and wartime sugar shortages, but it pushed through by leaning into clever advertising, even shaping how we picture Santa Claus today.

2

McDonald's

Richard and Maurice McDonald opened their first burger stand in California in 1940, but it was Ray Kroc's franchising vision in the 1950s that turned it into a nationwide phenomenon . Kroc, a milkshake machine salesman, was so impressed by their speedy "Speedee Service System" that he bought the rights to franchise it nationwide.

Early challenges included supply consistency and skepticism about fast food quality, but standardized systems solved that fast, making McDonald’s one the largest restaurant chains in the world.

3

Levi's

In 1873, Levi Strauss and tailor Jacob Davis patented riveted denim pants designed for gold miners who needed tough workwear . The brand had to overcome fabric shortages and changing fashion trends over the decades, but its rugged reputation kept it relevant.

These days, Levi's is a global fashion staple, with its 501 jeans considered a genuine American classic.

4

Ford

Henry Ford founded his company in 1903 in Detroit, revolutionizing manufacturing with the moving assembly line by 1913 , which made cars affordable for average families. Early struggles included skepticism from investors and competition from established carmakers, but innovation won out.

Ford is now one of the world's biggest automakers, still churning out best-selling trucks and family cars.

5

Kodak

George Eastman founded Kodak in Rochester, New York, in 1888, making photography accessible to everyday folks with simple, affordable cameras . The company later struggled mightily when digital photography emerged, eventually filing for bankruptcy in 2012 despite its historic dominance.

Kodak has since reinvented itself as a smaller, specialized company focused on printing and imaging technology.

6

Harley-Davidson

Founded in Milwaukee in 1903 by William Harley and the Davidson brothers, this motorcycle company started in a small wooden shed in the Davidson family's backyard . It survived the Great Depression and fierce competition from Japanese manufacturers in the 1970s and 80s.

Today, Harley-Davidson remains an iconic symbol of American freedom, cruising highways all over the world.

7

Disney

Walt and Roy Disney started their studio in 1923 in Los Angeles, facing financial setbacks and skepticism before Mickey Mouse's 1928 debut changed everything . Perseverance through early failures shaped the entertainment empire we know today.

Disney has since grown into a massive entertainment powerhouse, owning theme parks, movie studios, and streaming services worldwide.

8

Nike

Founded in 1964 by track coach Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight in Oregon, originally as Blue Ribbon Sports. Bowerman famously poured rubber into his wife's waffle iron to design a better shoe sole for his runners . Nike overcame early cash flow problems and manufacturing hurdles before the iconic swoosh launched in 1971.

Nike is now the world's leading sportswear brand, with athletes everywhere proudly sporting that famous swoosh.

9

Campbell's Soup

Joseph Campbell co-founded this company in Camden, New Jersey, in 1869, later popularizing condensed soup in 1897, which made it affordable and easy to store . The brand overcame supply challenges and evolving tastes, becoming a pop culture icon partly thanks to Andy Warhol's famous artwork.

10

Hershey's

Milton Hershey founded his chocolate company in Pennsylvania in 1894, aiming to make chocolate affordable for everyday Americans rather than a luxury item. Hershey had already failed at candy-making several times before finally striking gold with a caramel business that funded his chocolate ambitions.

The brand weathered the Great Depression and sugar rationing during wartime, emerging stronger each time. Hershey's is now America's largest chocolate manufacturer, and its bars remain a beloved treat in homes nationwide.

1

Frank Sinatra

Image: Dushawn Jovic

Frank Sinatra was one of America’s—and the world’s—most recognized artists, and even today, his name remains an unmistakable icon. We’ll never forget hits like "New York, New York," "My Way," "Fly Me to the Moon," and many others. And his last words were no less poetic than his life: "I'm losing," he allegedly said.

2

Groucho Marx

Image: Alan Hardman

They say humor follows comedians in all aspects of their lives—even to the very end. This was true for the great Groucho Marx, who passed away in 1977 at the age of 86 after bringing laughter to millions during his lifetime. As for his last words, there are two versions of the story, and both are funny! One version claims he said, " Die, my dear? That’s the last thing I’ll do! " while the other has him exclaiming, "This is no way to live!"

3

Buddy Rich

Image: Katherine Hanlon

Bernard "Buddy" Rich was a legendary American drummer renowned for his unique improvisational ability. He passed away at age 69 after brain surgery. Reportedly, his last words were a witty response to a nurse who asked if he was allergic to anything: "Yeah, country music," he said.

4

Donald O'Connor

Image: Nikko Balanial

Some artists never separate themselves from their work. Perhaps that’s what was going through the mind of dancer, singer, and actor Donald O’Connor—famous for his role in Singin’ in the Rain —when heart failure caused his death. His last words were, "I'd like to thank the Academy for my lifetime achievement award that I will eventually get." He still hasn’t received one.

5

George Washington

Image: Priscilla Gyamfi

George Washington will always be remembered as the Father of his Country, who led the Continental Army to victory in the Revolutionary War and served as the first president of the United States. In 1799, George Washington fell ill with respiratory infections that grew more severe over time. He passed away that year at the age of 67 at his Mount Vernon estate. According to historical accounts, his last words were an expression of acceptance: "Tis well."

6

T.S. Eliot

Image: anotherxlife

T.S. Eliot, the famous Missouri-born writer known for works such as The Waste Land and Four Quartets, passed away on January 4, 1965, at the age of 76. It's said that, in his last moments, the poet was reflective and serene, and his last word was the name of his love: "Valerie."

7

Joan Crawford

Image: Noom Peerapong

The great American actress Joan Crawford was much more than a pretty face. Her talent and complex personality were evident throughout her fruitful career, which was crowned with films such as Mildred Pierce . She died in 1977 of a heart attack. According to a biography, while a nurse was praying at her bedside, the actress exclaimed her last words: "Don't you dare ask God to help me!"

8

Humphrey Bogart

Image: JOSHUA COLEMAN

Say Casablanca, The Treasure of the Sierra Madre, and The Maltese Falcon, and one face automatically comes to mind: the iconic Humphrey Bogart. He was 57 years old when he died of cancer in 1957. According to sources, his wife, Laura, was leaving the hospital to pick up their children from school when he uttered his last words: "Goodbye, kid. Hurry back."

9

Eugene O'Neill

Image: Gwen King

Eugene O'Neill, the celebrated American playwright, faced numerous health issues throughout his life, which worsened in his later years. He passed away in 1953 at the age of 65. As one might expect from a talented playwright, his dramatic last words were full of intensity: "I knew it, I knew it! Born in a goddamn hotel room and dying in a hotel room."

10

Emily Dickinson

Image: Gülfer ERGİN

The famous poet Emily Dickinson is one of our country’s literary prides, known for beautiful works such as "Because I could not stop for Death" and "Hope is the thing with feathers." She was born in 1830 and died in 1886 in Massachusetts. Her last words were as poetic as her life: "I must go in, the fog is rising."

1

Pulling out the good china

Image: Zoshua Colah

In the past, people often had a set of special dishes reserved for holidays or important guests to make meals feel more memorable.

Today, many people use just one set of dishes and often eat casually, sometimes even standing over the sink. Taking the time to create a pleasant dining experience can show respect not only for your guests but also for yourself .

2

Good table manners

Image: Noah Samuel Franz

Good table manners are often mistaken for being overly formal or pretentious, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

The true purpose of practicing polite dining habits is to make sure everyone enjoys a relaxed and pleasant meal together , and it’s often easier to practice than most people realize.

3

Not taking off your shoes in public

Image: Beth Macdonald

Recently, there’s been a noticeable trend of people going shoeless in places like airplanes and restaurants. As society grows more casual, some even put their bare feet on seats, armrests, or tables.

However, it's best to keep your shoes on in public unless your host specifically asks you to remove them.

4

Standing when greeting someone new

Image: Musemind UX Agency

When meeting someone for the first time or welcoming someone into a group, it's polite to stand as a gesture of acknowledgment .

This simple act, expected of both men and women, conveys both warmth and respect.

5

Making introductions

Image: Elevate

Making introductions is becoming less common, yet it remains one of the most valuable social skills. Even if you forget someone’s name, it’s always better to ask than to risk letting them feel left out in a group.

Good manners are all about helping others feel at ease , and introductions don’t have to be uncomfortable or awkward when done with a little thought and effort.

6

Thank-you notes

Image: Kelly Sikkema

While everyone enjoys being thanked, it has become rare for people to express gratitude in a lasting way. Any form of thanks, including a text or email, is appreciated, but a handwritten thank-you card remains the most meaningful .

The personal touch of seeing your handwriting shows thoughtfulness, and many people cherish and keep these cards, something that’s much harder to do with digital messages.

7

Asking permission

Image: Dias ^

In a society where people often say, "It’s easier to apologize than to ask for permission," many act without asking, whether it’s hugging someone, posting their picture online, or taking a bite of their food.

However, it’s always more polite to ask before doing anything that involves or affects someone else . A simple question like "Are you okay with this?" can go a long way toward showing respect without taking up much time.

8

Opening doors for men and women

Image: Jan Tinneberg

Chivalry may have some outdated interpretations, but politeness is something everyone can practice, regardless of gender . Simple acts like holding the door open are easy to do and appreciated by everyone.

9

Holding the elevator

Image: Derrick Treadwell

In today’s world, many people are either too wary of strangers or adopt a "not my problem" attitude when seeing someone struggle in public. But as long as there’s no safety concern, it's important to continue practicing simple courtesies, like holding the elevator door for someone in a hurry .

10

Returning phone calls

Image: Hassan OUAJBIR

As society evolves, so does etiquette, especially with the rise of new technology, but some shifts aren't always for the better. A common example is responding to a phone call with a text message.

While some people may prefer texting over speaking on the phone, it’s still considered polite to return a call with another phone call , particularly when someone has taken the time to reach out to you.

11

No sunglasses indoors

Image: Lucas George Wendt

These days, it’s common to see people wearing sunglasses everywhere, even in places like movie theaters, but it raises a question: Are we avoiding others, or simply hiding behind our shades?

Eye contact is essential for effective communication, as it demonstrates respect and facilitates understanding. While it's fine to wear sunglasses outdoors, it’s best to take them off indoors to engage properly with others.

12

RSVP’ing promptly

Image: Artsy Vibes

With the rise of casual invites, often sent by email or social media, RSVPing has become increasingly rare. Failing to respond to an invitation is not only poor etiquette but also inconsiderate.

Hosts put significant time and effort into planning events, from buying food to organizing entertainment. Not RSVPing or waiting until the last minute only makes their job harder.