1

Approval voting

Image: Element5 Digital

The approval voting system is an electoral mechanism in which each voter may select any number of candidates, and the winner is the candidate approved by the largest number of voters .

This differs from plurality voting, in which a voter may choose only one option from several, and the option with the most votes wins.

2

Ballot fatigue

Image: Phil Hearing

If you have ever looked at a ballot and felt overwhelmed by the long list of races and issues further down, you have experienced ballot fatigue . This occurs when voters choose not to vote on lower-ballot races or issues.

3

Blanket primary

Image: Mick Haupt

A blanket primary is an election in which voters can select candidates from any party , regardless of their own or the candidates' political affiliation. This contrasts with a closed primary, where only registered party members can vote

4

Canvass

Image: Ernie Journeys

This term has two possible meanings. On the one hand, canvassing refers to the process of aggregating and verifying all valid ballots cast , which includes absentee, early voting, Election Day, provisional, challenged, military, and overseas citizens.

The second definition of this word, in the context of elections, canvassing also refers to the act of soliciting votes .

5

Caucus

Image: Arnaud Jaegers

A caucus can refer to a closed meeting of members of the same political party or faction, typically held to select candidates or decide on policy. It can also mean a group of people united to promote a shared cause . Similar, perhaps, but not the same.

6

Electoral college

Image: Joshua Woroniecki

An electoral college is a body of people known as presidential electors , formed every four years to represent U.S. states, who formally cast votes for the election of the president and vice president .

7

Mixed ticket

Image: Tiffany Tertipes

A concept somewhat similar to the previously mentioned blanket primary, a mixed ticket is a ballot where voters may select candidates of their choice regardless of party affiliation up to the maximum allowed for each race.

8

Dark money

Image: Mathieu Turle

In the context of elections, dark money refers to funds that are donated to a political candidate during an election campaign from organizations that are not required to disclose their donor’s identities . As expected, this money is often used to influence elections.

9

Gerrymandering

Image: Element5 Digital

This unusual word describes the process of manipulating electoral district boundaries to favor one party or candidate over another. Wayne Dawkins, a professor at Morgan State University, explains it as "politicians picking their voters instead of voters picking their politicians."

10

Super PAC

Image: Mockup Free

A Super PAC (Political Action Committee) does not contribute to candidates or parties but makes independent expenditures in federal races , such as running ads, sending mail, or communicating other messages that specifically advocate for the election or defeat of a particular candidate.

11

Air gap

Image: Andrew Neel

Put in simple terms, an air gap is a physical separation between systems that requires data to be transferred manually, using methods like a disc, flash drive, or other portable media.

Election systems use air gaps intentionally to prevent or control access . The election system cannot be connected to the internet at any time.

12

Undervote

Image: Glen Carrie

As the name suggests, an undervote occurs when a voter selects fewer choices than allowed in a contest . Similarly, an overvote happens when a voter selects more choices than permitted.

1

The Mayflower

Image: William Halsall, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

In 1620, about 100 passengers set sail on the Mayflower , a merchant ship that usually carried goods, to start a life in the New World. They left England in September and in November landed in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, putting the first stone in the foundation of the future American Nation.

The trip lasted two long months full of storms and perils. Finally, the ship, which was intended to land in Virginia, spotted the coastline up North in New England. The Mayflower pilgrims decided to stay in the area previously named Plymouth by famous explorer John Smith. During the first winter, the Mayflower served as a source of shelter . Although only half of the Pilgrims survived, they eventually founded the Plymouth Colony, celebrated the first American Thanksgiving with the Pokanoket people, and were able to establish a self-sufficient economy based on hunting, farming, and trading.

2

The Stagecoach

Image: Edward Joseph Holslag, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Before the invention of trains and automobiles, animal power was the main form of transportation. People, goods, and even mail would travel by horse, donkey, oxen, and pulled coaches and wagons, connecting cities with rural parts of the country. In the United States, the carriage era started in the late 17th century and lasted until the early 1900s when the automobile replaced horse-drawn vehicles.

The stagecoach, in particular, was the main public vehicle responsible for the conquest of the American West. It traveled along predetermined routes and had stops every 12 or 50 miles where people could rest and grab a bite to eat and horses could be changed. Moving goods and people throughout the territory meant the growth of cities, the settling of rural areas, and the creation of wealth . In this sense, carriages played a key role in the transportation revolution that transformed American life forever.

3

The Clermont

Image: Samuel Ward Stanton (d1912), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Although steamboats began to be developed in the late 1700s by the Scottish engineer James Watt, and that John Fitch was technically the first to build a steamboat in the United States in 1787, the North River Steamboat would be the one to make it into the history books .

This boat, also known as The Clermont , was designed by American inventor Robert Fulton. On August 17, 1807, this 142-foot-long vessel left New York City for Albany, constituting the first commercial steamboat service in the world . With a group of special guests aboard, the trip up the Hudson River took a total of 32 hours, at about 5 miles per hour. After this inaugural expedition, Fulton continued to build more boats, improving engine and propulsion design and making the steamboat a practical means of transportation. The success of The Clermont certainly changed river traffic and trade on major American rivers for years to come.

4

The American Railway System

Image: Popular Graphic Arts, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

There’s no doubt that trains had a significant role in shaping the landscape of the country. The origins of trains can be found in the ancient world, back when causeways and wooden rails were used to guide wagons. However, it would not be until the invention of the steam locomotive in the early 1800s that the history of transportation would be forever changed , spurring an industrial revolution around the world. And The United States was no exception.

The construction of new factories drove the need for materials to be transported over large distances, and railway travel provided the perfect solution. The concept of constructing a railroad in the U.S. was first conceived in 1812 by Colonel John Stevens. Yet, the first American railroad, the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, was built in 1827 . For the next 50 years, the government would issue grants to build railroads across the country, which became a very lucrative investment for companies, leading to economic growth and the development of new towns and cities.

5

The San Francisco Cable Car

Image: Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Did you know that the cable car was invented in San Francisco in the late 1800s? It was developed by Andrew Smith Hallidie based on mining systems and is a symbol of the city still today. Clay Street Hill Railroad began public service on September 1, 1873, and it was an instant success. Other companies followed suit and launched their versions of Hallidie's patented system in the following years, totaling 53 miles of track across the city.

Later, although the electric street car, a lot cheaper to build and maintain, became the vehicle of choice for city transit, cable cars continued to be better equipped for steep hills. In 1947 the city Mayor urged to "get rid of all cable lines" leading a committee to launch a public campaign to save this iconic vehicle. Even celebrities rallied for the cause and ultimately the cable car system survived the attempt, specifically because of its great cultural value, especially among the thousands of tourists who visit San Francisco every year.

6

The Columbia Bicycle

Image: Boston Public Library, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

In 1878, Civil War veteran Colonel Albert A. Pope, inspired by a British bike he saw at the Philadelphia World’s Fair, hired a sewing machine company to make the first American bicycle . The brand went on to be called Columbia , and by 1888 was manufacturing about 5,000 high-quality bikes a year. However, for a couple of years, it would not be seen as a means of transportation but as pure entertainment.

Later, with the development of the British Rover safety bike, bicycles were no longer limited to athletes and the brave. Pope started selling these easier-to-ride vehicles and the American bicycle industry finally took off in 1890. By the beginning of the 20th century, 1 million bikes were produced in the U.S. yearly and people were even riding them to work every day.

7

The First American Car

Image: Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Few people know that the first successfully American manufactured car was actually developed by bicycle makers. In the Autumn of 1893, brothers Charles and Frank Duryea road-tested the first gasoline-powered automobile in Chicopee, Massachusetts . It was, in fact, an old horse-drawn buggy into which the brothers installed a 4 HP, single-cylinder gasoline engine.

By 1899 there were around thirty companies manufacturing cars in the U.S. One of the most representative staples of the history of automotive manufacturing in the country is, no doubt about it, the Ford Model T . This "affordable" car was intended for the American middle class and it was first produced in 1908 in Detroit. Within days of its release, over 15,000 Ford cars were sold and the popularity of this iconic American company is still relevant today.

8

The Tremont Street Line

Image: Boston Transit Commission, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The first subway in America was built during the second phase of the Industrial Revolution in Boston, Massachusetts in 1897. This cutting-edge mode of transport was possible thanks to the invention of the electric motor by Frank Sprague in 1866 . But, why Boston? In the late 19th century, bustling Boston had a street congestion problem due to overcrowding and frequent blizzards and needed an out-of-the-box solution.

City officials agreed the best thing to do in a city with narrow colonial streets was to build an underground subway. Finally, on September 1, 1897, a four-track subway line between Boylston Street and Park Street was opened to the public . Additional lines and stations have been added throughout the following centuries, ushering in a new era in American public transportation.

9

The 1903 Wright Flyer

Image: John T. Daniels, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

On December 17, 1903, a powered airplane invented by brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright made the first sustained flight over the skies of North Carolina . The Wright Flyer —also known as the _Kitty Hawk_— was a single-place biplane that managed to fly 852 ft on its fourth attempt before it was blown over on landing. The aircraft was later repaired but never flew again —although you can now visit it at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.

After this exceptional achievement by the Wright brothers, the progress of American aviation never ceased to amaze. For example, in 1910 the St. Petersburg–Tampa Airboat Line started to operate and although it lasted only three months, it is now considered the United States’ first airline. By 1918 the U.S. Post Office was using airplanes to transport mail across the country . Finally, in 1958 Pan American ushered in the Jet Age with the iconic Boeing 707.

10

The Apollo 11

Image: Project Apollo Archive, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

From the 1950s onwards, the Soviet Union and the United States embarked on a space race that made possible an unprecedented program of scientific exploration. On April 12, 1961

the Soviets managed to send the first person into space. In response, just 23 days after Yuri Gagarin, the first American man entered space aboard the Freedom 7 Mercury capsule . Alan Shepard’s trip lasted only 15 minutes and 28 seconds but it was more than enough to mark the beginning of an unprecedented revolution. Who would have thought that only 8 years later we would be transporting humans to the moon?

The story of Apollo 11 is well known, yet it deserves a special place in the history of American transportation , which is by no means limited to the Earth. Without the development of space shuttles, it would be impossible to imagine the future of transportation, a future that will surely be defined by the conquest of the unknown.

1

Lassie: TV’s Most Loyal Friend

Image: Kanashi

Lassie is the ultimate hero in a fur coat. The famous Rough Collie first appeared in a 1938 short story before becoming the star of her own TV show. Week after week, Lassie showed audiences how a dog’s loyalty and bravery could save the day.

Maybe she was alerting her family to danger or helping strangers; in any case, she was always there to lend a paw. Lassie’s adventures inspired generations of viewers and cemented her place as a true American icon. She was a devoted friend with a loving nature and a natural instinct to know when to act. She became more than just a dog; she became a family member to millions.

2

Rin Tin Tin: From Battlefield to Box Office

Image: Christoph Schmid

Rin Tin Tin’s journey is one for the history books. He was rescued by a soldier during World War I. This German Shepherd was brought to America and became a Hollywood sensation in no time.

With his expressive eyes and fearless nature , Rin Tin Tin starred in over 25 silent films, performing stunts that left audiences in awe—can you believe that? He helped shape the early days of cinema and became a household name of its own.

Rin Tin Tin was more than a movie star, he was a hero in his own right, and that is what guaranteed his name is still popular today.

3

Toto: The Little Dog with a Big Heart

Image: Paul Cuoco

Toto, Dorothy’s loyal companion in The Wizard of Oz , may have been small, but he was packed with personality. A Cairn Terrier named Terry actually played Toto in the iconic 1939 film, winning hearts with her expressive face and boundless courage.

Toto stuck by Dorothy through all of her Oz adventures. Regardless of his small size, his impact was completely the opposite! And we’re not just talking about the movie. Of course, in each scene, Toto showed loyalty and an instinct for getting into and out of trouble, much like our own beloved pets. But his bond with Dorothy was genuine, and fans could feel that connection. Toto’s spirit made him unforgettable, and he’s still celebrated as one of America’s favorite movie dogs.

4

Old Yeller: The Ultimate Frontier Hero

Image: Caleb Fisher

Only a few dogs stuck and became part of America’s identity like Old Yeller. Set in the rugged Texas frontier, his story was all about bravery, family, and love in a world that was nothing but harsh.

The big, yellow dog feared nothing. He didn’t back down from protecting his family from wild animals, sickness, and any threat that came their way. He taught the family he lived with about sacrifice and courage. And we all learned that too!

When you think of Old Yeller, you think of resilience, even though his tale is bittersweet. Even decades later, people remember Old Yeller as a classic story of love and loss.

5

Balto: The Husky that saved a village

Image: Chalo Gallardo

If a dog has a statue, he certainly must have earned it, right? Balto for sure did. His heroic journey is as inspiring as it is legendary.

Back in 1925, a diphtheria outbreak in Nome, Alaska, needed urgent medicine, and Balto led the sled dog team through snow and freezing temperatures to deliver it. This brave Siberian Husky’s courage in the face of life-threatening conditions not only saved lives but also made him a hero.

Naturally, his success story spread across America, and New York’s Central Park even built a statue in his honor. Balto became the face of courage and teamwork, and his story has been immortalized in books, movies, and history.

6

Benji: Hollywood’s Lovable Underdog

Image: Johannes W

Has your heart melted already? We certainly have, like two dogs ago, but let’s keep it going with the next one on our list: enter Benji.

Benji charmed his way into American hearts in the 1970s with his scruffy, humble looks and sharp problem-solving skills . This mixed-breed dog starred in a series of movies where he often found himself rescuing people or outsmarting bad guys.

Benji wasn’t big or flashy, but he didn’t need that. He made up for it with his resourcefulness and charm. Viewers loved his quiet bravery and knack for getting out of sticky situations. And of course, that little charming face of him, duh!

7

Eddie: Frasier’s scene-stealing sidekick

Image: Egor Gordeev

Regardless of the director’s intention, dogs will always find a way to become the star of the show. Eddie is an example of that! The Jack Russell Terrier from the hit sitcom Frasier stole scenes with his hilarious antics and unforgettable stares.

In the series, Eddie kept Frasier on his toes, and audiences couldn’t get enough of him. His expressions were worth a thousand words, bringing both humor and heart to the show. The show was a hit, but this character made it relatable. Who hasn’t experienced the mischief of a furry friend? For such a small dog, Eddie made a huge impact and is still fondly remembered.

8

Hachiko: Loyalty That Knows No Boundaries

Image: Oskar Kadaksoo

Hachiko’s story isn’t just famous in Japan; it resonated deeply with American audiences, too. An Akita known for waiting for his owner each day at a train station, Hachiko continued his routine for years after his owner’s passing. How moving is that?

His loyalty became legendary and eventually inspired the American film Hachi: A Dog’s Tale , which introduced his story to US viewers.

If there was any doubt concerning the kind of bonds formed between a human and a dog, Hachiko got rid of all of them! Even in America, Hachiko is celebrated as a symbol of unwavering dedication.

9

Buddy: America’s first guide dog

Image: Brands&People

Speaking of special bonds, Buddy, a German Shepherd, changed countless lives in the 1920s by becoming America’s first official guide dog.

Her owner, Morris Frank, helped establish guide dog schools across the country, proving the incredible help dogs could offer to the visually impaired. Buddy’s intelligence and dedication paved the way for service dogs, and her influence continues to shape assistance programs today.

Her gentle guidance provided not only hope but also independence to many people with disabilities. Buddy’s groundbreaking work showed what dogs could do beyond companionship, which was an invaluable gift in itself!

10

Scooby-Doo: The Detective dog

Image: Dinu J Nair

America has more than just 10 beloved dogs, and the ones we’ve mentioned so far were all real-life dogs. But let’s not forget that cartoon dogs also hold a special place in America’s heart. Take Scooby-Doo, for example.

Scooby-Doo is a fun-loving Great Dane who has been solving mysteries with his human friends since the 1960s. Yes, he was a detective. And yes, he was also very much afraid all the time!

Scooby has become a cartoon favorite and has starred in countless TV shows, movies, and comic books. With his human friend Shaggy by his side, Scooby always stumbled upon clues that saved the day—usually with a few treats along the way. Scooby-Doo’s legacy as a cartoon icon endures, and he has lots of fans around the globe!