1

Empire State Building

Image: Afif Ramdhasuma

We’ll begin with what’s perhaps the most famous skyscraper in "The City That Never Sleeps". The Empire State Building speaks to the magnificence and grandeur of New York City: After all, it is named after the State of New York’s official nickname, "The Empire State".

At the time of its construction, the Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world, a title held for almost 40 years. Its exquisite Art Deco design and innovative architecture have turned it into an instantly recognizable icon. Perhaps more famously, it has been featured in unforgettable pictures like "Sleepless in Seattle" and "King Kong". Be honest: Whenever you see a picture of this building, can’t you almost see a humongous ape perched atop its antenna?

2

Flatiron Building

Image: Vidar Nordli-Mathisen

For many, the most remarkable feature of this iconic building is its unusual name, which comes from its also rather unusual shape. The Flatiron is considered a New York City institution, and its history is almost as inspiring as its groundbreaking design.

In its early years, the Flatiron was known by the derisive nickname "Burnham's Folly", since detractors believed that architect Daniel Burnham’s design was a laughable idea. History would prove Burnham right though, since the Flatiron is still one of the most instantly recognizable skyscrapers in the world.

3

Willis Tower

Image: Gardhy Granados

For any Chicagoan who might be reading this, we know that you probably still call this building the "Sears Tower", but we thought it would be appropriate to include the official new name of this iconic skyscraper. Located in the heart of the "Loop", the Willis Tower is a 110-story, 1,451-foot building that has truly earned its place in Chicago’s skyline.

Since its opening in 1973, Willis Tower has proudly held the title of the world’s tallest building for close to 25 years. Regardless, this juggernaut is still an American landmark and one of Chicago’s most visited tourist attractions.

4

Transamerica Pyramid

Image: Chris Leipelt

While most pictures of San Francisco’s skyline are usually dominated by the Golden Gate Bridge, visitors of "The City by the Bay" are frequently dazzled by this unusual yet breathtaking building. Completed in 1972, the Transamerica Pyramid was San Francisco’s tallest building until 2018, when it was surpassed by the Salesforce Tower.

Without a doubt, the most striking aspect of this building is its groundbreaking design: Just like San Francisco’s carefree spirit of independence, this building seems effortlessly innovative. It has been compared to other revolutionary designs, most notably to "the Shard" building in London.

5

Columbia Center

Image: Anthony Alexander

Formerly known as "the Bank of America Tower" (or BOAT for short), the Columbia Center was constructed in downtown Seattle in the early ‘80s: At the time, this imposing black skyscraper was the highest building on the West Coast. While most of this skyscraper is leased for private usage, it does house the highest public viewing area west of the Mississippi River.

The Columbia Center’s design produces a rather interesting effect: Since the building is composed of 3 separate segments joined by 2 setbacks, viewers from the street might believe the Columbia Center is made from 3 different towers set side to side.

6

The Chrysler Building

Image: Anthony Fomin

As you probably expected, many iconic skyscrapers from "The City That Never Sleeps" will be featured in this article. The Chrysler Building is an art-deco masterpiece located at the intersection of 42nd Street and Lexington Avenue, which holds the distinction of being the world’s very first supertall skyscraper.

This building was commissioned by (and named after) Walter Chrysler, head of the Chrysler Corporation, and its construction was marked by a friendly competition with the Empire State Building for the title of the world’s tallest building. In that sense, the Chrysler Building’s remarkable 1,046 feet height gave it this impressive title, albeit only for 11 months.

7

Wells Fargo Plaza

Image: Franky Magana

If you ever find yourself taking a stroll through Downtown Houston, you’ll definitely come across a gorgeous all-glass skyscraper. You can’t miss it: After all, the Wells Fargo Plaza is the tallest all-glass building in the entire Western Hemisphere, standing at an impressive 992 feet.

This skyscraper was formerly known as the Allied Bank Plaza and in, 1988, it was renamed to the First Interstate Bank Plaza. However, when in 1996 First Interstate Bancorp was bought by Wells Fargo, this skyscraper changed its name once again to the Wells Fargo Plaza we all know.

8

John Hancock Center

Image: Jonathan J. Castellon

Founding Father John Hancock truly deserves all the praise it can receive from the American people, so it stands to reason that he should have his name honored by a 1,128-foot supertall skyscraper. Located in the iconic "Magnificent Mile", the John Hancock Center was for a while the tallest building in Chicago, surpassed by the previously mentioned Willis Tower.

This skyscraper was completed in 1969 and it has remained a Chicago staple ever since. It houses several restaurants and offices, as well as approximately 700 condominiums. Interestingly, the John Hancock Center is the background on which the 1988 horror film "Poltergeist III" takes place: Posters for this film featured this skyscraper, with a menacing lighting bolt crossing the night sky behind it.

9

Bank of America Plaza

Image: Luis Negron

Just like the Empire State and the Chrysler buildings, the Bank of America Plaza is another wonderful example of Art Deco architecture located between Midtown and Downtown Atlanta. This gorgeous skyscraper is instantly recognizable thanks to its unusual color palette, and it holds the distinction of being the tallest building of any U.S. state capital.

If you are lucky enough to visit "the City in a Forest", try to visit the Bank of America Plaza at night. You’ll quickly notice that the stunning golden spire at the top of the building (which is actually shaped like the Plaza itself) glows alongside a gorgeous pyramid of girders, in a lovely orange hue that tries to resemble old street lights.

10

Home Insurance Building

Image: Александр Македонский

We’ll end this article by honoring an iconic skyscraper that, while it is not still standing, lives on in the proud history of our country. Standing at 138 feet, the Home Insurance Building might not seem remarkably tall by today's standards but, at the time of its construction in 1885, this Chicago historical landmark became the world’s very first skyscraper.

Due to a decrease in its occupancy, the Home Insurance Building was demolished in 1931, alongside 5 other buildings, to make way for the site on which the Field Building now stands. However, this landmark’s legacy still stands, earning its well-deserved place in history as the father of the skyscraper.

1

The Supremes

Image: Namroud Gorguis

The ‘60s gave us The Supremes, which was not only one of the most successful girl groups ever but also had the iconic Diana Ross among its members.

Have you heard "Stop! In the name of love / Before you break my heart / Think it over / Think it over"? But that unforgettable 1965 hit was not the Supremes' only success. They created many other hits, such as the famous "You Can't Hurry Love" from 1966. In fact, the group had 12 number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100!

The influence of this successful group was so deep that it inspired and contributed to the flourishing and recognition of many other girl groups in the decades that followed, some of which are also on this list.

2

The Jackson 5

Image: Markus Spiske

The Supremes were not the only musical group that gave rise to an iconic solo star. The Jackson 5 appeared in 1964, featuring a very young Michael Jackson and his four brothers: Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon.

In the late ‘60s and ‘70s, the Jackson brothers achieved great success. In fact, one of their first singles, "I Want You Back," from 1969, became a number-one hit. When that song was played all over America, Michael Jackson was only 11 years old! Tunes like "The Love You Save" and "I'll Be There" are just a few of the other hits that followed.

In addition, The Jackson 5 had their own TV show, "The Jacksons" (from 1976 to 1977), and they were even inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997!

3

The Monkees

Image: Austin Prock

If you hear, "I thought love was only true in fairy tales..." you know how the lyrics of that song go on, right?

The Beatles' film A Hard Day's Night inspired an American series called The Monkees , televised from 1966 to 1968. If you watched it, you probably remember the musical band of the same name, created specifically for the show. Originally composed of Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Davy Jones, The Monkees achieved great musical success, particularly with the hit we just mentioned, "I'm a Believer," which remains famous worldwide.

4

The Ronettes

Image: Gayatri Pandkar

The '60s were prolific in musical groups, and one of the most popular was The Ronettes, a girl group formed by sisters Veronica Bennett (later known as Ronnie Spector) and Estelle Bennett, along with their cousin Nedra Talley. Have you listened to some of their hits, such as "Be My Baby," "Baby, I Love You," and "Walking in the Rain"?

In addition to their catchy tunes, what distinguished The Ronettes was their style, characterized by dramatic makeup, beehive hairstyles , and iconic outfits.

Despite their influence, many years passed before they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007 .

5

The Pointer Sisters

Image: Haley Lawrence

Pop, soul, R&B, jazz, country, and even dance music were some of the genres played by The Pointer Sisters, the girl group from Oakland, California, that rose to fame in the 70s. Their talent and versatility kept them going for several decades!

As their name suggests, The Pointer Sisters were a trio made up of sisters Anita, June, and Ruth Pointer. "I'm So Excited," "Jump (For My Love)," and "Fire" were some of the most famous hits of this three-time Grammy Award-winning group. Have you listened to them? You probably have!

6

New Kids on the Block

Image: Florian Schmetz

NKOTB was the coolest way to refer to the legendary New Kids on the Block (in fact, their fan base called themselves "NKOTB Nation"). Formed in 1984 in Boston, Massachusetts, this boy band triumphed in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s.

NKOTB paved the way for other boy bands that emerged in the '90s, reshaping our concept of pop music. "You Got It (The Right Stuff)," "Hangin' Tough," and "Step by Step" were just a few of their many hits, which made them winners of several American Music Awards during their peak years. They also sold more than 80 million records worldwide!

If you want to remember NKOTB, you can listen to their songs, of course, but you can also visit their star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where they've been honored since 2014.

7

Salt-N-Pepa

Image: Ben Wiens

In 1985, Queens , New York, saw the birth of Salt-N-Pepa, a legendary hip-hop group that became one of the first female groups in the genre.

Did you ever dream of forming a band when you were in college? We did! So did the members of Salt-N-Pepa. They not only made it happen, but they also became a huge success.

With hits like "Push It," "Shoop," "Whatta Man," and many others, these girls were everywhere. They had so much flow and rhythm that, in 2005, they were inducted into the Dance Music Hall of Fame!

8

Backstreet Boys

Image: Steve Johnson

If someone says, "Tell me why," many of us would probably respond with, "Ain't nothing but a heartache." And that's just one of the many ways the Backstreet Boys have left their mark across generations.

As one of the best-selling boy bands, Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean, Brian Littrell, and Kevin Richardson were a sensation in the late '90s and early 2000s . Their music was everywhere, and fans were desperate to meet them.

As you know, they had several hits that we still remember, such as "I Want It That Way," "Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)," and "As Long As You Love Me." You've probably danced to the beat of some of these hit songs, right? Did you have a favorite?

9

Destiny's Child

Image: Rob Sarmiento

Beyoncé Knowles, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams were the final and best-known members of a girl group called Destiny's Child. Do any of these names ring a bell?

Big hits like "Say My Name" and "Bills, Bills, Bills"—which won them a couple of Grammy Awards, by the way—launched these women to total stardom. Destiny's Child was a constant presence on the charts during the late ‘90s and early 2000s, and had us all singing catchy lyrics like "Say my name, say my name / If no one is around you, say baby I love you."

In addition to several major hits that still live on in many people's minds and hearts, Destiny's Child gave us the incredible, iconic, record-breaking Beyoncé . What more could we ask for?

10

'N Sync

Image: Alphacolor

This list could never be complete without mentioning the unforgettable 'N Sync.

Not only was this one of pop's most legendary boy bands, but it also featured one member who eventually became a solo superstar. Yes, you guessed it— we're talking about Justin Timberlake! He, along with JC Chasez, Chris Kirkpatrick, Joey Fatone, and Lance Bass, formed 'N Sync in 1995. Their first album, released in 1998, sold over 10 million copies in the U.S. alone and included hits like "I Want You Back."

The faces of the 'N Sync members were everywhere: on posters, T-shirts, dolls, and all sorts of merchandise, selling out not just in the U.S. but also in other parts of the world. Remember their performance at the 2001 Super Bowl ?

1

Rocky IV

If you want to see late Cold War patriotism condensed into a two-hour blockbuster, look no further than Rocky IV . Written, directed by, and starring Sylvester Stallone, the 1985 sequel details the rivalry between self-made American underdog Rocky Balboa and Ivan Drago (Dolph Lundgren), a state-sponsored Soviet boxer.

The film serves as an allegory for the geopolitical tensions between the USA and the USSR. With Rocky stepping into the Moscow ring wearing the late Apollo Creed's iconic stars-and-stripes trunks, his eventual victory symbolizes a triumphant win of Western individualism over Soviet collectivism.

2

Neil Diamond's "America"

Patriotism is not just about defending borders, it’s also about celebrating our country’s diverse mosaic of people. Neil Diamond proved it with his 1980 hit "America", written for The Jazz Singer soundtrack.

With its optimistic beat and soaring chorus, the track serves as an anthem celebrating the immigrant experience. Diamond's lyrics honor the millions of people who braved the seas to find freedom and opportunity, and has become a constant at political rallies, naturalization ceremonies, and sporting events.

3

George Washington’s suit

Did you know America’s very first president used his attire to send a message of national independence? For his 1789 inauguration, George Washington rejected the luxurious, imported silks favored by the European aristocracy. Instead, he arrived wearing a simple, American-made brown broadcloth suit crafted from wool produced at the Hartford Woolen Manufactory in Connecticut.

Featuring custom metal buttons engraved with the Great Seal of the United States, Washington's suit was an intentional statement meant to promote domestic industry, reject European economic dominance, and symbolize democratic equality.

4

Captain America

Comic books have long relied on patriotic superheroes to protect the innocent, but none achieved the legendary status of Steve Rogers. Created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby, Captain America made his debut in March 1941, nearly a year before the United States officially entered World War II.

The iconic cover of Captain America Comics #1 featured the star-spangled hero delivering a right hook straight to Adolf Hitler’s jaw. Representing the ultimate underdog story, Captain America became an enduring symbol of anti-fascist determination that remains a multi-billion-dollar cinematic powerhouse today.

5

Catherine Malandrino's "Stars and Stripes" dress

Fashion and patriotism collided at the dawn of the 21st century. Following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the American flag evolved from a standard national symbol into an emblem of resilience and unity. French designer Catherine Malandrino captured this cultural shift perfectly with her flag-print chiffon shirtdress.

Originally debuted by Halle Berry just days before 9/11 at a movie premiere, the "Stars and Stripes Dress" quickly became a post-tragedy uniform for Hollywood's elite. It was worn by icons like Julia Roberts, Sharon Stone, and Madonna to signal solidarity, hope, and patriotism on the red carpet.

6

Kid Rock's "Born Free"

Kid Rock’s 2010 single "Born Free" brought a raw energy to patriotic music. Blending elements of southern rock, country, and blues, the track was inspired by Kid Rock’s travels playing for American troops stationed overseas.

The musician has said that he penned the song as a tribute to liberty and personal freedom. The tune has been played at major sporting events, auto commercials, and has been adopted as a political campaign anthem.

7

The Americans

Instead of waving the flag openly, the critically acclaimed drama The Americans (2013-2018) examined American patriotism from a different perspective. The series follows Philip (Matthew Rhys) and Elizabeth Jennings (Keri Russell), two undercover KGB spies living as a typical American family in suburban Virginia during the 1980s. As Philip increasingly finds himself seduced by the genuine freedom and lifestyle of the "American way", the series serves as an endorsement of democratic values.

8

Patton

Biographical films often examine patriotism through a complex lens, and the 1970 masterpiece Patton is proof. Starring George C. Scott as General George S. Patton, the film opens with a legendary, six-minute monologue delivered in front of a colossal American flag.

The film, directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and written by Francis Ford Coppola and Edmund H. North, perfectly captures Patton's fierce love for his country alongside his military genius. Released during the height of the divisive Vietnam War, Patton managed to resonate across the entire political spectrum, even becoming a favorite of President Richard Nixon, who watched it repeatedly before making critical military decisions.

9

Toby Keith's "Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue"

In 2002, Toby Keith aptly captured the raw emotion of the post-9/11 era with his "Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue." Written in a burst of intense emotion following the terrorist attacks and the recent passing of his military veteran father, the song became a patriotic anthem.

With its lines promising that America would "put a boot in your ass," the song resonated deeply with a grieving public. It dominated the country charts, fueled troops overseas, and cemented its place as one of the most defining musical examples of early 2000s nationalism.

10

Yankee Doodle Dandy

During the uncertain early days of World War II, Hollywood became a critical tool for boosting national morale. No film captured this era's patriotic fervor quite like Yankee Doodle Dandy , a 1942 biographical musical drama directed by Michael Curtiz.

Starring James Cagney in his Oscar-winning role as vaudeville legend George M. Cohan, the film celebrates the life of the patriotic showman who penned iconic wartime anthems like "Over There" and "The Yankee Doodle Boy". Released just months after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the film's tunes and celebration of American resilience served as a perfect cinematic cry for a nation entering a massive global conflict.