Also did you know the tune to the american national anthem ....was that of an old english beer drinking song .......yes !!!!i know why did i know this ...well fuck i do not know ......you learn shit along the way!........thats 16 things you now know .......
15 Fascinating Facts About the USA
BBQ’s, fireworks, hot dogs, the annual parade, friends and family, 4th of July, American Independence is genuinely a tradition. With 242 years of independence, celebration, and culture, it is America’s most cherished holiday.
However, have you ever wondered why only July 4th is known as the Independence Day or the number of hot dogs consumed that day? Alternatively, what do you know about the US of A and its history?
So, this July 4th, whether you plan to grill with your family or indulge in the scrumptious hotdogs, get yourself entertained with these fascinating facts.
1. Old New York Was Once New Amsterdam
Did you know that New York was known as New Amsterdam 350 years ago? New Amsterdam was a result of 17th Century Dutch Settlement when Dutch people chose to settle in Manhattan (1624). The name, New York only came into consideration in honor of the Duke of York (1664).
After the Second Anglo-Dutch War, England and the United Provinces of the Netherlands agreed for the Treaty of Breda. The English abandoned the island of Run to the Dutch and Dutch gave up their claim to the entire town. So today what is now New York City was once New Amsterdam!
2. Russia Sold Alaska To The United States
Back in the 19th century, Alaska was not a part of the United States. It was a part of Russia until it was sold off to the Americans. Why do you ask?
Well, as the Civil War ended, the U.S. showed up its interest in purchasing Alaska. So around one hundred fifty years ago, U.S. Secretary of State and Russian envoy signed Treaty of Cession, and the U.S. bought Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million. These days Alaska is one of the wealthiest U.S. states. Thanks to its abundance of natural resources, numerous national park, and the tallest mountain called “Denali.”
3. July 2nd Is The Real Independence Day Of The United States
According to Kenneth C. Davis, an American Historian July, 2nd is the real in Independence Day.
During the American Revolution, the separation of Thirteen Colonies from Great Britain occurred on July’2. Moreover, on the same day, the second continental congress made a vote to approve the resolution of independence that declared United States independent from Great Britain rule.
However, it was two days later that Congress accepted Thomas Jefferson declaration that explained the VOTE decision. Congress then debated and finally approved July’4 as Independence Day.
4. July 4th Was Not An Official Federal Holiday
For the first 15 or 20 years, the declaration did get written, but people didn’t celebrate it that much as it was a new concept and a lot was happening around the nation. By 1817, John Adams complained that America seemed uninterested in the past.
Though they began observing July 4th as their Independence Day, the Congress didn’t make it official until 1870 as it wasn’t a part of the passed bill to recognize the state holidays at a Federal Level. Later, in 1938, when the bill granted holiday leave, July 4th got changed into a paid vacation.
5. The Shortest Parade On July 4th Is Held In Aptos, California
During the American Independence Day celebrations, the shortest and oldest parade is done in Aptos, California. The city takes up two city blocks and measures just 0.6 miles. The parade starts from the Rancho Del Mar Shopping Center and ends near the Bayview Hotel. Though the original course of parade ran from Trout Gulch Road and ended at where Britannia Arms is located today. The parade comes with all the decorated trucks, antique cars, and a massive number of walkers. Once the parade takes off, there is a party in the park where you can enjoy food, music, and games.
The Aptos Ladies, Tuesday Evening Society, organized the event until 1992, and then the duties were taken over by Aptos Chamber of Commerce.
6. A Kid designed the Glorious 50-Star Flag
In 1958, a 17-year-old boy Robert G. Heft had no idea that his project on American history would become world famous. While working on the project, Robert thought that Hawaii and Alaska would soon become a new state. So, he crafted a 50-star flag for his project. To accomplish the project, he dissected a 48-star flag that his parents had gotten as their wedding gift and sewed it back together himself.
However, he got a B- because, at that time, there were only 48 states in the U.S.A. When Congress selected his project out of 1,500 others, the teacher changes his grade from B- to an A.
7. No National Official Language
At the federal level, there is no national language in the U.S. Whether or not to adopt an official language is a debate in America since 1750’s. In 1780, John Adams proposed English as the official U.S. language to the Continental Congress which was rejected as “undemocratic and a threat to individual liberty.” Many activist groups still argue for and against the adoption of an official language. However, no efforts were made to establish it as an official language. The opponents of an official language argue that the U.S. is celebrated for its diversity in everything.
The U.S. is a multilingual nation, with English dominating the others but with Spanish catching up fast.
8. The Melody Of U.S National Anthem An English Drinking Song
Ironically, the melody of “The Star-Spangled Banner” is not American. The tune comes from an English Drinking Song-“to Anacreon in Heaven.” Though it had nothing to do with the consumption of Alcohol but the melody originated when Francis Scott Key wrote the song for the praise of wine. Also, this tune is an official ditty of an 18th century London’s men social club known as the Anacreontic society.
9. On July 4th, The Liberty Bell In Philadelphia Is Tapped 13 Times
Every Independence Day, the Liberty Bell is tapped, not rung thirteen times in honor of 13 colonies. The bell weighs over 2,000 pounds and is known as one of the recognized symbols of Philadelphia. Moreover, due to its concerns about cracking of the iconic instrument, the Liberty Bell has not been rung since 1846.
So, at approx 2 p.m. eight children will tap the bell thirteen times and signal the bells across the country to pay respect to the sacrifices of the 13 original colonies.
10. July 4th Is Also Celebrated In Philippines
Moreover, in Rwanda as well! It is celebrated in the Philippines as this country was recognized as in independent nation in 1946. On the other hand, this day is also celebrated in Filipino as the Liberation Day, 4th of July, 1994 marks the end of Rwandan Genocide and birth of the new government.
11. USA Is A Federal Republic
The USA is known as the oldest surviving federation. The nation is made up of 50 states and is also a federal district of Washington D.C. The district includes the capital city, which is located between Virginia and Maryland. The city functions as its separate entity and does not belong to either one of them. Moreover, Washington is a federation that is also divided into states, 48 of them is located on the continent of North America that lies between Canada in the North and Mexican in South. The other two leftover states are- Alaska and Hawaii.
12. There Is A Text Written On The Back Of Declaration
The back of the Declaration of Independence says that: “Original Declaration of Independence dated 4th July 1776” that too backward and upside down. Moreover, it is not known who wrote it or when it was written.
Apart from this, the declaration was written on parchment that is commonly known as the sheepskin. This parchment was rolled during the Revolutionary War Years, and it was probably considered as a message. The declaration was also inked in iron gall ink that is made by combining fermented galls with the ferrous sulfate.
13. Yankee Doodle Is Considered As A Negative Song
The “Yankee Doodle Song” is a staple song of American 4th July celebrations. It is considered a funny and silly song that is sung in honor of America’s birthday. However, this song was originally sung by the British officers for making fun of the backwoods American, also known as the colonial Yankees. However, in 1781, the Britishers surrendered in Yorktown, and since then, this song got transformed into America’s pride from being a funny negative song.
14. Only John Hancock Signed The Independence Declaration on July 4th, 1776
Yes, initially only Hancock signed the declaration on the day of Independence, and others, later on, signed it. It was then signed by a total of 56 men from 13 colonies, and the average age of signers was “45.” The youngest one was Thomas Lynch at the age of 27, and the oldest one was Benjamin Franklin at age 70. However, the lead author, Thomas Jefferson was 33. Moreover, one of them was also Harvard educated.
Furthermore, the final draft was approved on July’4, and after a long dispute, it was concluded that it was signed on August 2nd, 1776.
15. “In Old California” is the First Hollywood Movie
“In Old California” is a silent movie shot in 1910 by Director D.W. Griffith of the Biograph Company. Griffith filmed this melodrama about the Mexican era of California in Hollywood, California. Griffith discovered a scenic little village with friendly people in Hollywood on his trips to California. Impressed by the beauty and humble people of the village, he decided to shoot there.
The movie was screened at the Beverly Hills Film Festival, and it was the first time public could watch the movie in 94 years.
16. There are 27 Versions of the American Flag
The flag of America has gone through 27 official iterations since its adoption on June 14, 1777. The first official version of the flag features 13 stars and 13 stripes for 13 original colonies. The current design is its 27th version. The 48-star U.S. flag remained in effect for 47 years until the new design with 49 stars became official on July 4, 1959. On August 21, 1959, President Eisenhower ordered a 50-star flag which was officially adopted in July 1960. The 50-star version is the longer-used one. It is now used for more than 57 years.
17. It could be Turkey instead of an Eagle
Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers, was displeased when the bald eagle was chosen to be the national symbol of the USA. According to Benjamin, the bald eagle has a bad moral character, and he doesn’t get his living honestly. In a letter to his daughter Sarah Bache in 1784, he wrote that the bald eagle perched on a dead tree near the river and is too lazy to fish for himself.
Benjamin Franklin wanted TURKEY to be the national symbol of the U.S. He referred turkey a respectable and courageous bird. It is the original native of America. Luckily, he lost the vote.
18. The Booziest Holiday
Fourth of July is unofficially popular as the booziest holiday in America. The tradition of boozing started with the second celebration of the American Independence Day in 1778.
Then US President George Washington offered the troops double rum to celebrate the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Since that day, the sales of liquor and beer in the country have eclipsed. Within the last ten years, these sales surpass $1 billion, and that’s not applicable to other types of liquor.
19. The Death Day
Fourth of July was indeed a significant day in the history of America when the global superpower was born. However, coincidently, American lost its second and third Presidents on the same day. Riddled by ill health and debt, Thomas Jefferson dies at his home in Virginia at the age of 83.
The same day, John Adams also passed away at his home in Quincy, Massachusetts at the age of 85. Strangely, James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States, died on July 4, 1831.
20. Pennsylvania Evening Post – first newspaper to print the Declaration
The Pennsylvania Evening Post is famous for being the first newspaper to print the Declaration of Independence in a newspaper. It was printed by Benjamin Towne, a Philadelphia printer, and an ardent patriot. However, he was an opportunist and switched sides many times during the war.
After the evacuation of British Empire, Towne became the sole printer left in the city. So, he easily secured contracts from the Continental Congress as well as the state government in America. He started printing The Pennsylvania Evening Post every day, making it the first daily newspaper in America.
21. It Has The Biggest Economy In The World
The United States economy is the largest one in the world regarding nominal GDP. The U.S. accounts for more than 25% of the world’s nominal GDP. Its economic superpower is attributed to the nation’s large and young population, high average incomes and high consumer spending, technological advancements, moderate unemployment, free enterprising, and abundance of natural resources. The free economic in the country allows massive flexibility in creation and growth of businesses. America’s GDP per capita is nearly $59,609.
22. USA capital was initially New York City
Unusual it may sound; New York City played the role of America’s first capital once the Constitution was ratified.
The City served as the capital for five years between 1785 and 1790. However, the President had to face the issue of a permanent location for the seat of government. After moving the country’s capital to Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia subsequently, Washington, D.C. was the permanent capital of the United States On June 11, 1800.
23. Fireworks Are A Tradition For This Day Celebrations
Since the celebrations of July 4th have started, Fireworks have been a significant part of this day. According to the American Pyrotechnics Association, 268.4 million pounds of fireworks are used in the US each year. Also, almost 6500 fireworks are shot over the National Mall on July 4 for the annual celebration of National Park Service.
After all, John Adams said that he hoped that illuminations, fires, and guns should mark every Independence Day. Moreover, first July 4th fireworks happened in the middle of Revolutionary War, so they are also believed to be the “morale booster.”
24. It was a woman who Almost Started the Revolution
The Revolutionary War of Independence of America almost began early, thanks to a thirty-year-old nurse, Sarah Tarrant. Sarah was a fiery temper woman who lived and grown up in Salem, Massachusetts in 1775. British commander Alexander Leslie arrived in Salem to find cannons hidden by rebels. Upon his arrival, a few younger citizens refused to let his troops enter the town. The Salem militia gathered, armed, and ready. However, Leslie persisted and eventually marched into Salem and made them return to Boston.
At that moment, Sarah Tarrant leaned out the open window of her house and shouted: “Go home and tell your master he has sent you on a fool’s errand, and broken the peace of our Sabbath.” A soldier aimed his musket at her but didn’t fire, or maybe it was possible that the Revolutionary War would have started then and there.
25. Americans Eat About 100 Acres Of Pizza Everyday
According to the Pizza industry trade organization in the US, about 100 acres of Pizza is served in the US every day.
In the US, pizza overpowers merely burgers and other junk food items as the nation’s favorite fast food. There are around 60,000 pizzerias in the country, and America’s oldest pizzeria was opened in 1905, named as Lambardi. The delivery sales spike during the Super Bowl games and October is celebrated as National Pizza Month in the United States. Along with this, a Pizza Expo is held every year in Las Vegas, and world’s largest Pizza was made in Italy. Further, more than 3 million pizzas are sold annually in the USA.
26. Not All The Founding Fathers Wore Wigs
The classic image shows all Founding Fathers signing the Declaration of Independence in big, white wigs. But not every Founding Father wore them. George Washington and Thomas Jefferson wore their hair long and powered it themselves instead of hiding their hair by wearing a wig.
What’s more, the hair was not white, and whiteness was just an effect. The hairstyle was meticulously constructed by Ben Franklin who lent a natural flow to their locks. This hairstyle was inspired by a military look that soldiers or want-to-be soldiers did for appearing manly.
27. The First Place For Independence Day Celebration- Rhode Island
Rhode Island is a tiny town that is home to America’s Oldest July 4 celebration. This city now holds a tradition of celebrating America’s Independence Day for almost a month. Found in 1785 by Rev. Henry Wight, the festivities start on June’14, Flag Day with soap box races, outdoor concerts, firefighters muster, and more at the Independence Park. After a month, these celebrations come to an end on July 5 with an annual parade in the United States.
28. The US Population Has Grown To 290+ Million Since Independence
In 1776, when the Declaration of Independence was signed, the population of America was estimated to be 2.5 million. However, now the population of America is somewhat around 312 million.
Also, the 20% of the American population during the American Revolutionary War were loyalists.
29. Internet Was Invented In The United States
The US government envisioned WWW and started to develop ARPANET- Pentagon’s Advanced Research Projects Agency Network. However, the network did not lead to the internet.
Internet was the work of various researchers from around the world. The initial paper was published at Stanford during 1974 and was implemented in 1975 at BBN, Stanford, and University College, London. However, the initial idea did originate from the US with the ARPANET project.
30. 182 Places in the U.S. With “Christmas” In Their Names
Some of the important places include Christmas, Arizona, Christmas Lake, Washington, Christmas Island, Florida, Christmas, Michigan, Santa Claus, Indiana, and Christmas Valley, Ore.
Other than this, there are various Christmas themed places in Alaska, a Santa’s workshop in New York, and theme park known as Holiday World that is located in Santa Claud. The Holiday Park is one of the oldest theme parks in the world and is divided into the four sections that celebrate Christmas, Halloween, Fourth of July, and Thanksgiving.
31. Thomas Jefferson Wrote The Declaration Of Independence On A Laptop
Thomas Jefferson’s Laptop was a kind of writing desk that could fit into one’s lap. Made of mahogany, it was built by Philadelphia cabinetmaker and included a folding board lined with green baize that is attached to the top. When it is opened, the writing surface grows and is attached with a drawer for inkwell, pens, and paper. Jefferson used this desk for writing the Declaration of Independence, and throughout all his life as an educator, politician, citizen, and a President. Moreover, as the United States grew, the importance of laptop grew too.
32. The First 4th of July Celebration Was Done At The President’s House
It was President Thomas Jefferson who started the 4th of July celebrations at the white house. Although John Adams was the first person to occupy the mansion, Jefferson was the first person who opened the house and greeted the people in the center of oval saloon under the portrait of George Washington with the various festivities like music, fireworks, and more. Now the executive mansion comes as a symbol of enduring dream and plays a vital role in Independence Day celebrations.
33. Thomas Jefferson Changed “The Pursuit of Property” To “The Pursuit of Happiness” In The Declaration Of Independence
According to an article published on History News Network, “The Pursuit of Happiness” is known as the most important phrase in the Declaration of Independence. However, why did it get changed from “The Pursuit of Property?” In an article “The Pursuit Of Happiness” on Huffington Post July 4, 2007, it is said that an eighteenth-century British philosopher John Locke wrote that- “Governments are instituted to secure people’s rights to ‘life, liberty, and property.” Moreover, in 1776, Jefferson wanted to differ a little. When he penned down the declaration, he edited the word property and substituted it with a more American concept: The Pursuit to Happiness.
34. Fifty-Nine Places in the U.S. Have “Liberty” In Their Name
Of the fifty-nine places in the United States that have Liberty in their name, four of them are countries- Liberty County, Texas, Liberty County, Ga., Liberty County, Fla., and Liberty County, Mont. Apart from the country, the most populated one is Liberty, Missouri with 29, 581 residents. Moreover, the Iowa state has four such towns’ names as New Liberty, West Liberty, North Liberty, and Westville. Other than this, Pennsylvania consists of 11 places with Liberty in their name.
35. The Printed Version Of Declaration Of Independence Is Known As Dunlap Broadside
The first draft of Independence Declaration is known as the “Composition Draft, “and the final printed one was known as the “Dunlap Broadside.” It was named as Dunlap Broadside as it was published as a ‘broadside’ printed by John Dunlap. These were the first published copies that were printed on July’4, 1776. One broadside was passed into Congress Journal making it Boyd called as a second official version of Declaration. The broadsides were distributed throughout 13 states. Moreover, upon receiving them, many states issued their broadsides editions too.
36. The Original Declaration Draft (Fair Copy) Was Lost
The fair copy of Declaration of Independence has been missing for over 200 years. Some scholars think that it got accidentally destroyed by Dunlap when he was asked to produce the official broadsides. Another story says that it got intentionally destroyed when many delegates wanted to keep their deliberations a secret. Moreover, several versions of declarations existed, and it is also noted that Thomas Jefferson held two of them. So the copy of Declaration that is now available at the National Archives is known as the Engrossed Copy.
37. Turtle Soup and July 4 Celebrations
It is rumored that John and Abigail Adams celebrated 4th of July in the 18th century with a turtle soup meal. While turtle soup isn’t popular these days, it was once found in abundance in the New England region due to which it was commonly served at that time. The complete meal consisted of salmon, green peas, and some turtle soup; just like Adams supposedly had it on 4th of July.
38. Massachusetts Was The First State To See July 4th As A Holiday
Massachusetts considered 4th of July as an official holiday on July 3, 1781, becoming the first state to do so. It wasn’t until June 28, 1870, that Congress considered it as the Federal Holidays for the employees. The government almost took 50+ years to declare American Independence Day as a holiday. In 1938, the bill passed it as a holiday leave and then this day got changed into a paid leave for all the employees.
39. Pennsylvania Is The State Of Independence
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Pennsylvania is known as the “State of Independence’ as it is the state where the declaration was debated and signed. It is also home to the 33 places with the word “union” in them, 11 places with the word “liberty” in their name, and one place with Patriot in its name.
So yes! Pennsylvania is known as the country’s most patriotic state.
40. It Is Known As The Hot Dog Holiday Of The Year
There is no denying the fact that Americans take their July 4 celebrations very seriously. On this day, Americans reportedly consume 155 million hot dogs. Even according to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, the fourth of July weekend is when the Americans consume most of the hot dogs. They also state that the hot dog consumption is enough to make a line from the Washington D.C. to Los Angeles that too more than five times.
41. Alaska Has The Longest Coastline In The Country
Alaska is the largest state in the United States and the fourth least densely populated among the other 50 states. It stretches for 6,640 miles and has a shoreline of 33,904 miles inclusive of the islands. When combined with the all the inlets, sounds, and bays, the coastline stretches to a total of 47,300 miles. Along with this, it has 17 of the 20 mountains including Mount McKinley. The best part about Alaska is that it has the lowest individual tax burden in the U.S. as it collects neither a personal sales tax nor the income tax.
Also, did you know that Alaska was not taken as United States state until 1959?
42. In 1893, United States Of America Was To Be Named as United States OF Earth
Were you aware of the fact that the Congress and states are allowed to change the constitution through an amendment process? To get approval for the change, it has to be proposed by the 2/3rd of senate and house, and it is up to the states to approve the amendment or not. In 1893, Lucas Miller, a U.S. House Representative proposed that U.S.A should be renamed as “United States of Earth.” He stated that it is possible for the Republic to grow in a way such that new states will be added into the union until every nation on Earth becomes a part of it.
43. One Out Of Eight U.S. Workers Work At McDonald’s Once In Their Lifetime
McDonald’s is one of the biggest employers in the country. According to the statistics in the “Fast Food Nation’ Book, 1 in 8 Americans have been employed by the McDonald’s fast-food chain. The workers also include various successful people and celebrities like pop singer Pink and Amazon founder, Jeff Bezos. Bezos also states that- “one of the greatest gifts that he got from this job is that he can crack eggs with his one hand. Also, his favorite shift was Saturday morning as the first thing he would do is break 300 eggs into a bowl.
44. The Original Capital Of United States Was ‘Philadelphia’
Before establishing the nation’s capital as Washington D.C., the Congress of United States and its predecessors met in Philadelphia, Lancaster, PA, Princeton, Annapolis, MD, NJ, Trenton, NJ, and Maryland, from 1774 to 1790. However, in 1774, the first Continental Congress brought together all the colonies in Philadelphia, which was followed by the Second Continental Congress that met from May 1775 to March 1781.
So, formerly the capital of United States was known as Philadelphia.
45. The United States Has The Maximum Number Of Obese People In The World
According to OECD, the rate of obesity will reach nearly by 50% in 2030. The statistics in the research also states that obesity rates of Americans aged 15 and overcomes up around 32%. Home to the 13% world’s fattest population, 66% of the people in the country are overweight, and 33% of them are obese. After all, forty-five kilograms of chocolates are consumed every second in the United States!
46. Pensacola, Florida Is The Oldest City Of United States
Established in 1559 by Don Tristan De Luna, Pensacola has the title of the most ancient city in the United States. Luna came to this city with people on 11 ships to settle the area, but a giant hurricane came and killed hundreds of people shortly after they landed. It is also known as one of the oldest historical and military towns of the country as the military operations, and Naval Air Station Pensacola is a crucial component of the town’s overall economy. This city has celebrated its 458th birthday in 2017.
47. Harvard Was The First University In United States
Found in 1636 and located in Cambridge, it is the first university in the United States and Second Best University of the world. It is also known as the oldest institution for higher studies in the US, and it certainly got a claim of the first University by others. However, it was mentioned as the University in the Massachusetts Constitution that was first submitted on October 28, 1779. Harvard Museum of Natural History is a favorite tourist spot in the university that has various objects on display like 3000 glass flowers, most large turtle shell, and more.
48. The Drug Regulation Laws Are Applicable In the USA Since Mid-19th Century
From 1860’s to the modern day, there are various facts about drug laws and also have multiple conflicts around them. According to the 1906 Pure Food and Drug Act, there were certain drugs like cocaine, heroin, alcohol, and cannabis that required be accurately labeling and selling only on the prescription. Even new regulations like Prohibition Era were also carried out regularly for banning the alcohol from1920-1933. The laws and rules were continued until President Nixon started a “War on Drugs” in 1970. Drugs were seen as quite dangerous throughout 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s; however, alcohol was started again in 1933 and cannabis got legalized in 2012.
49. 1,000 Tornadoes Comes Down In the USA Every Year
USA experiences very extreme weather conditions like tornadoes, torrential rains, thunderstorms, hurricanes, and more. The most common lousy weather occurrence is Tornadoes, and almost 1000 of them hit North America each year. Even there is a place in the Midwest region of the USA named as Tornado Alley where most of the tornadoes usually occur. Tornadoes also occur commonly in other areas like South Dakota, Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma.
50. The Statue Of Liberty Is From France
The Statue of Liberty (Liberty Enlightening the World) is a neoclassical sculpture that stands on the Liberty Island in New York Harbor, New York City. Designed by the French sculptor, Frederic Auguste Bartholdi and built by Gustave Eiffel, this statue was a gift from the people of France to the United States and was dedicated on October 28, 1886. The designer of this statue was inspired by a French Law professor, Edouard Rene de Laboulaye who said that- any monument that is applicable for U.S. independence would serve as joint building for the U.S. and French people.
51. The Liberty Bell Originally Belongs From London
The Liberty Bell is one of the iconic symbols of American Independence that is now located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. However, did you know that Liberty Bell was made in the same place as the Big Ben in London? Both the bells were made in Whitechapel Bell Foundry, which is one of the private and oldest bell makers around the world.
In the early years, the bell was used to call lawmakers for the legislative sessions and to alert the residents about various public meetings.
52. Hawaii Is The Only Archipelago State In The Country
Established in 1959, Hawaii is the only state that occupies most of the archipelago in the central Pacific Ocean. It is also the only U.S. state that is located outside North America, in Oceania, and comprises mostly of islands. This state has the entire volcanic Hawaiian archipelago that consists of islands that are spread over 1,500 miles. Moreover, the archipelago is both an ethnologically and a physiographical part of the sub-region of Oceania.
Apart from this, Hawaii is the 11th least populated, 8th smallest, and 13th most densely populated of the 50 U.S. states.
53. Iced Tea Was First Served At St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904
Because a British Businessman wanted to increase tea sales in America, Richard Blechynden, a tea plantation owner, made a plan to give away free samples of tea to the fair visitors. However, St. Louis was so hot that visitors hardly seemed interested in it. Now, it is known that the owner added some ice to the tea and created a drink that got hit at the fair. On the first day of the festival, a huge meal was served that included 11,000 pounds of beef and 880 gallons of iced tea.
However, Pat Villmer from the St. Louis World Fair Society wrote that- “Iced tea wasn’t ‘invented’ at the World’s Fair. The good people of the South were serving iced tea in their homes long before the Fair. It was just popularized at the Fair. It was called sweet tea served cool not hot in the summer in the South. Ice, when available, was used. Remember, ice was the premium in the early days before refrigeration, not tea.”
54. The Mall Of America Is Originally Owned By The Canadians
Located in Broadway, Bloomington, MN, USA the Mall is owned by a Canadian Group, known as The Triple Five Group that is based in Edmonton, Canada. Also, it was the Canadian Group that came up with the idea of starting and designing this place. So despite the name and the American principles of e-commerce, this mall can never be considered as an American one. However, Canada comes as a continent of North America.
55. There Is A Candy Desk On The U.S. Senate Floor
Traditions that relate to the Senate desk have continued to evolve since 1965. One of the best examples of this tradition is the presence of candy desk on the U.S. Senate floor. In 1968, Senator George Murphy kept his desk full of candy for the enjoyment of fellow senators despite no eating rule on the floor. Moreover, since then the tradition has continued until now. Currently, the desk is handled by Illinois Sen. Mark Kirk (R) who also keeps the desk full of candies like Jelly Belly, Mars bars, and Wrigley’s gum.
56. The Advertisers created the U.S.A Pledge Of Allegiance
There was a magazine – “The Youth’s Companion” that used to distribute the US flags across the country near the end of 19th century. However, on 8th of September, 1892, the editors published the pledge to promote nationalism, get more subscriptions, and sell more flags. However, this pledge took off across the entire country and also has undergone a few changes over the years. Originally, the pledge involved a salute made after the classic Roman one, but later on, “of the United States Of America” was added to clarify that people were pledging it to the U.S. Moreover, “Under God” was also added to it during the red scare.
“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
57. The word “Pennsylvania” is misspelled on the Liberty Bell
In 1876, the United States did the Centennial celebrations in Philadelphia with the display of a replica of Liberty Bells from each state. However, Pennsylvania’s display bell was made out of sugar. Moreover, Pennsylvania was misspelled as “Pensylvania” on the bell, which came as an acceptable spelling mistake at that time. Also, the single N was also common usage in the 18th century.
58. The Empire State Comes With Its Zipcode
We have always heard that cities, towns, and states have their zip codes, but a building with its code? Yes! The Empire State Building lies within the geographical boundaries of 10001 Zip code that covers the land east of 5th Avenue between the 25th and 35th streets.
So since 1980, the tower has always distinguished itself with a unique pin code of 10118.
59. September 9th Has A Great Significance In The U.S.A History
Apart from July’4, September 9th also holds great importance in the history of the country. Firstly, this day is National Wiener Schnitzel and National Steak Au Poivre Day in the United States. It was the same date in 1776 when the Continental Congress renamed the nation as the United States of America instead of United Colonies. In 1791, the city of Washington D.C. was named after the country’s first president. California was taken as the 31st state on September 9th in 1850, and the U.S. actor who played as the Penguin in the Batman series died on the same date in 1997.
60. There Is A Sleep-Wake Schedule For The U.S.A Flag
According to the Federal flag laws, the flag should be displayed from sunrise to sunset, except during the unfavorable weather. Furthermore, it should also be kept for 24 hours a day as long as it is properly illuminated. There is also a proper way to view the flag that includes by facing the flag with your right hand kept over your heart.
Also, did you know that the flag of U.S.A is the most displayed flag ever?
61. The United States Has The Deepest Lake
The deepest lake in the United States is known as Crater Lake that is a result of a volcanic eruption in Southern Oregon. It is the ninth deepest lake in the world and has a depth of 1,949 feet, which is 594 meters. This lake is significant because no rivers flow into it and the water level in it is a complete balance between groundwater flow, evaporation, and rainfall.
62. There Is A Town In Michigan Named As “Hell.”
Hiland Lake, commonly known as Hell is an unincorporated community in the U.S. state of Michigan. It is near the border of Washtenaw County that is about 24 km northwest of Ann Arbor and three miles southwest of Pinckney by the Patterson Lake Road. It is named as hell for two reasons- once the German travelers stepped out in the afternoon, and one said to another, “So Schon hell!” Moreover, as Michigan got its statehood; help was asked from Reeves, and he replied- “I don’t care, you can name it Hell for all I care.”
63. There Are Three Towns With “Santa Claus” In Their Names
Yes! You heard it right. Along with Christmas, there are towns with Santa Claus in their names. Santa Claus, Georgia- It is a small town in Toombs County and has a population of just 165 people. Santa Claus, Indiana- Known for its Christmas theme, it is a small town that is home to the Santa Claus church, Santa Claus post office, and a Santa Claus statue. Santa Claus, Arizona- Found in 1937, this town initially had some Christmas themed architecture, and then the local businesses started using them as great branding opportunities.
64. The World’s Highest Roller Coaster In New Jersey
Kingda Ka is the world highest roller coaster that is located in Jackson, New Jersey, United States. Built by ‘Stakotra,’ it is the world’s tallest, second fastest, and the second strata roller coaster ever built. This rollercoaster is launched by a launch mechanism that goes up to 128 miles per hours in just 3.5 seconds. Once the track ends, the ride climbs up the height of 456 feet, and spans over 3,118 foot long, i.e., 950 meters as the ride come entirely to an end.
65. The United States Has More Spanish Speakers As Compared To Spain
According to a report, the United States is the second largest Spanish speaking country. The report states that there are 41 million Spanish speakers in the United States along with the 11.6 million people who are bilingual. Moreover, according to the U.S. Census office, they estimate that the United States will have 138 million Spanish speakers by 2050 that will make it the most significant Spanish speaking nation with this language as the mother tongue of almost one-third of its citizens.
66. Ferris Wheel Was Invented In Chicago
Junior George Washington Gale Ferris made the first, original and authentic Ferris wheel for the Columbian Exposition in Chicago. It is a wheel that consists of a wheel with the components that can carry multiple passengers. The first ever Ferris wheel was invented in Chicago, debuted in a World’s fair (1893), and was demolished in 1906. However, a new one also made in its place, which is 150 ft. tall and 15-story high at Navy Pier.
67. The Debt Per Person In United States is $54,000
In 1950, only 80% of men had jobs, while today less than 65% of the men in the United States are employed. Approximately, 48% of the Americans are merely living in poverty or are considered to live in a Low Income Group. There are 46 million people in the United States who only survive on food stamps. According to Federal Reserve Bank of New York estimates that there are around 167,000 Americans who have or are studying on the student loan.
68. Groundbreaking Temperatures Recorded In The United States
The lowest temperature that was recorded in the United States was in Alaska, January 23, 1971, when the temperature went down to -79.6 Fahrenheit (-62 degrees Celsius). The hottest temperature that was every measured in the U.S. was in North America – Death Valley, California on July 10, 1913. On that day, the temperature measured was around 132 Fahrenheit (56 degrees Celsius).
69. San Francisco Has No Cemeteries
Though a significant population of the United States of America believes in reincarnation, there are hardly any cemeteries present in San Francisco. In 1937, there was a law passed by the residents according to which no cemeteries will be built inside the city as they considered their land way too valuable. Even no one is allowed to be cremated within limits of the town. Today, there are only three cemeteries nearby the city, and new of them were made in Colma town that has more dead residents than the living ones. These cemeteries also come as a popular destination for tourists these days.
70. Around 28% Of The Land In The United States Comes Under Federal Government
The Federal Government owns 640 million acres of land in the United States of America, which is 28% of the total land area. It also has 69.1% of Alaska, 84.5% of Nevada, and 57.4 of Utah. However, on the east side, the government only owns 0.4% of Connecticut, Rhode Island, and 0.8% of Iowa. They call this land as the public land and majority of them will be used to make parts, and left over will be used for cattle grazing.
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