Americans all around the United States are gearing up to celebrate America’s birthday this Wednesday, July 4th. To many, this national holiday means barbecues, alcohol, and a day off of work. However, with all the parties and firework extravaganzas, we can’t forget the real reason we celebrate! America declared independence from England 242 years ago. From 13 original colonies came 50 states, all unique in their own way. Today, we celebrate how far we have come and show our patriotic spirit. To get you in the American spirit, we have compiled some people, places, and things that make America…America.
1. Baseball
Baseball is also known as America’s pastime. There was some argument over who really “invented baseball” however baseball is fundamentally an American sport since it began on American soil as early as the 18th century. The first ever American baseball team is known as the New York Knickerbockers founded September 23, 1845. Today there are 30 Major League Baseball teams around the country.
2. Apple Pie
Apple pie has become an unofficial symbol of the United States representing prosperity and national pride. During World War II soldiers often told journalists they were fighting for "Mom and apple pie." 1 out of 5 Americans prefer apple pie over any other.
3. Statue of Liberty
Lady Liberty soars in the New York City skyline and remains a symbol of freedom. The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to commemorate the centennial of the American Declaration of Independence. In 2017, the Statue of Liberty received over 4 million tourists flocking to take in her beauty. She is known as one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks.
4. Walt Disney
It all started with a mouse. Walt Disney was a pioneer in the American animation industry as well as a film producer, and inventor. He expanded the idea of commercialized amusement parks to the United States. His legacy is unprecedented with his timeless movies and creations. Disney World in Orlando, Florida, and Disneyland in Anaheim, California receives over 45 million visitors a year, combined.
This genre of music originated in the early 1920s in the southern United States. Country music a combination of folk music and musical traditions from immigrants. The music gained popularity in the 1940s and has grown into a booming industry today.
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