1

Mark Zuckerberg

Image: Kenny Eliason

Mark, the co-founder and CEO of Facebook, was named TIME’s Person of the Year in 2010. He earned this honor for his remarkable influence on the social networking landscape and the way people connect online.

At just 26 years of age, Zuckerberg forever changed communication , with Facebook amassing over 500 million users worldwide!

TIME recognized him not only for his technological innovation but also for his role in reshaping social interaction and the digital economy. His vision and impact extended beyond technology, influencing politics, business, and society at large. He quite deserved the recognition, didn’t he?

2

Barack Obama

Image: History in HD

The 44th president of the United States was named Person of the Year not once, but twice! His first recognition came as he made history by becoming the first African American president , symbolizing a profound change and a hopeful future for many Americans. Obama’s message of "hope and change" resonated globally.

The second time, in 2012, he won the recognition as we secured a second term in office . His presidency was marked by significant accomplishments, including the passage of the Affordable Care Act. Both titles reflect his impact and influence on the American people.

3

Jeff Bezos

Image: Christian Wiediger

The founder and CEO of Amazon was named TIME’s Person of the Year in 1999 . He was recognized for his groundbreaking work in e-commerce, transforming Amazon from an online bookstore into a global retail powerhouse. Under his leadership, Amazon revolutionized the way people shop , setting new standards for convenience and customer service.

TIME acknowledged Bezos for his visionary approach and relentless drive, which significantly impacted the retail industry and consumer behavior. His innovative strategies and focus on long-term growth positioned Amazon as the leader in the digital economy it is today.

4

Wallis Simpson

Image: Annie Spratt

TIME’s recognition was not always about diplomacy, politics, or innovation: Love and drama were also acknowledged. Wallis Simpson was an American socialite and she was named TIME’s Person of the Year in 1936 for her role in one of the most dramatic love stories of the 20th century, which led to the abdication of King Edward VIII of the United Kingdom. Edward’s decision to relinquish the throne to marry Wallis, a twice-divorced American, rocked the British monarchy and captivated the world.

TIME honored Simpson not just for her personal story, but for the profound political and social impact her relationship with Edward had on the era . Even if the British monarchy didn’t think alike!

5

The Good Samaritans

Image: Katt Yukawa

2005 was one of those years when the title "Person of the Year" wasn’t enough. Back then, three people collectively known as The Good Samaritans were named "Persons of the Year," and two of them were American.

We are talking about Bill Gates, Melinda Gates, and Bono who was also part of the group. Bill and Melinda Gates, through their foundation, had been tackling major global health issues, such as eradicating diseases and improving education worldwide . Bono, the U2 frontman, was recognized for his activism in fighting poverty and HIV/AIDS, particularly in Africa, using his fame to advocate for social justice.

Their significant contributions led to improving lives and addressing critical global challenges and exemplified the power of using wealth and influence for the greater good.

6

Ted Turner

Image: Rubaitul Azad

Ted Turner is a visionary media entrepreneur, and he was named Man of the Year in 1991. He earned this distinction for his transformative impact on the media landscape, most notably through the creation of CNN, the world’s first 24-hour news network .

Turner's innovative concept forever changed how people access news, ensuring that information is available at any hour. His approach redefined television journalism and set new standards for news delivery globally.

Beyond his media ventures, Turner's dedication to philanthropy and environmental causes further demonstrated his commitment to positive change. TIME recognized Turner not just for his media achievements, but also for his broader societal contributions .

7

American Women

Image: Jen Theodore

That’s right, there was one time when the influential group was so big, that they had to honor a whole gender. In 1975, American Women collectively were named TIME’s Person of the Year. This landmark recognition celebrated the influence women had in several aspects, including politics, business, and social movements. The honor was a tribute to the growing momentum of the women's liberation movement, which was challenging traditional gender roles and advocating for equal rights.

TIME’s goal was to highlight the diverse achievements of women across the nation, from l eaders in government to activists fighting for justice and gender equality. This selection acknowledged the key role women played in shaping the country’s cultural and political landscape during a transformative period.

8

John F. Kennedy

Image: History in HD

Most Presidents of the United States were honored with the title of Person of the Year and Kennedy was not the exception. As the 35th president, he was awarded the title in 1961 due to his inspiring leadership and vision during a crucial time in American history.

His charisma, youthful energy, and policies resonated with a nation that was ready for a change .

The recognition came not only for his political achievements but also for his ability to energize the American spirit. Kennedy’s legacy continues to influence American politics and culture today so the recognition was just one more testament to his powerful impact.

9

David Ho

Image: Marcelo Leal

In 1996, Dr. David Ho, an influential Taiwanese-American AIDS researcher, was granted this recognition due to his groundbreaking work on the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) which helped the medical community understand and treat AIDS. His extensive investigation led to the development of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).

His findings meant giving patients the possibility of living a quality life through treatment for a chronic condition instead of a fatal disease.

Dr. Ho’s dedication and scientific advancements have had a profound impact on public health and this recognition acknowledged the importance of scientific innovations in addressing global health crises.

10

Taylor Swift

Image: Rosa Rafael

This article ends with TIME’s most recent "Person of the Year." Taylor Swift is a 34 American singer-songwriter who was given the title in December 2023.

During that year, Swift broke quite literally all the records: The most streamed album, the highest-grossing world tour, the biggest-selling record of the year, and more. Taylor Swift was granted the title because it became a whole phenomenon. It was the first person in the arts to be recognized with this title.

Whatever country she visited with The Eras Tour the local economy went crazy, not to mention the fans. Her music has inspired millions of people around the world, deeply influencing cultures, economies, and more on her way.

1

Seattle Underground City

Did you know the remnants of Seattle's original streets are still accessible? Beneath the bustling streets of modern-day Seattle lies the Underground City , a network of subterranean passageways that formed the ground level in the 1800s.

By the end of the 19th century, after the Great Seattle Fire, it was decided to rebuild the city at a higher elevation to combat frequent flooding . So, these original streets, sidewalks, and storefronts were buried, and with it, much of their history.

Guided tours take people through tunnels and ladders and retell real and eerie stories about the history of the Underground City.

2

Luray Caverns

Image: Robert Thiemann

Have you ever heard of the underground Stalacpipe Organ ? Not only is it a one-of-a-kind interaction between keyboards and cavern stalactites, but it is also the largest musical instrument in the world, according to Guinness World Records.

This instrument lives in the Luray Caverns, Virginia. It consists of an electric console that taps on these ancient stalactites of varying sizes to produce musical tones. A subterranean wonder, these caverns are also known for their extraordinary size , housing towering stalactites and stalagmites, mirrored pools, and delicate drapery-like calcite formations.

3

The Underground Gardens of Baldassare Forestiere

Image: Adrian Botica

This stunning subterranean retreat was built entirely by hand. Tucked under the sun-scorched landscape of Fresno, California, lie the Underground Gardens of Baldassare Forestiere . They are the life’s work of Baldassare Forestiere, a Sicilian immigrant who started digging in the early 1900s to escape the Central Valley's oppressive heat.

Over 40 years, drawing inspiration from ancient Roman catacombs , Forestiere carved an elaborate network of underground rooms, passageways, grottoes, and courtyards that span 10 acres.

A unique masterpiece, the gardens are open with guided tours that lead guests through beautifully designed spaces featuring skylights, arches, and alcoves. This oasis also boasts an array of fruit trees, including citrus, figs, and olives.

4

Ruby Falls

Image: Goodfreephotos_com

Colorful and breathtaking, the Ruby Falls is a geological wonder located inside Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Hidden over 1,000 feet below the mountain's surface, this waterfall cascades 145 feet into a pool , making it one of the tallest underground waterfalls open to the public.

Visitors enter the mountain and descend via elevator. Then, they walk through stunning cave formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone. At the waterfall chamber, multicolored lights –powered by renewable energy– illuminate the falls. Lantern-lit tours are also offered as a chance to visit the marvel with a different charm.

5

The Catacombs of Green-Wood Cemetery

Image: Joy Ernst

Arched tunnels of tranquil, sacred vaults lie beneath the Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, New York. Built in the mid-19th century, these catacombs were designed as a prestigious resting place for the city’s elite , prominent families.

While the catacombs are typically closed to the public, special events are sometimes organized to welcome visitors, such as art expositions, guided history tours, and candlelit tours seasoned with live music and storytelling.

Outside, where the sun does reach, await the serene landscapes and remarkable monuments of the cemetery, which is itself a National Historic Landmark .

6

The Lost Sea

Image: Roberto Nickson

The largest underground lake in America is in Tennessee. Hidden within the Craighead Caverns in Sweetwater, this enormous body of water lies in a cave system filled with fascinating formations, such as stalactites, stalagmites, and rare anthodites, also known as "cave flowers."

A National Natural Landmark, this lake marvels scientists, who are yet unaware of the exact extension of its waters. Those who visit can embark on a boat ride called "The Lost Sea Adventure," first walking inside the cavern before reaching a boat to navigate these ethereal sights.

7

Mammoth Cave National Park

Image: Sherin Jacob

The Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the longest cave system in the world . Located in central Kentucky, it extends over 420 miles of explored passages and many more likely undiscovered. Enormous chambers, underground rivers, a labyrinth of tunnels, and gypsum crystal formations can all be found at this site.

The park has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve. It also includes over 52,000 acres of protected land on the surface, renowned for its lush forests and diverse wildlife.

8

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Image: Cason Asher

A large bat colony lives in the Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico, but that’s not its only charm. The park boasts over 100 caves, with its centerpiece being the immense Carlsbad Cavern.

The cavern includes the Big Room, one of the largest underground chambers in North America, spanning 8.2 acres. Visitors can descend via an emblematic natural entrance or by elevator, dropping 750 feet underground. Stalactite formations like the Giant Dome, the Hall of the White Giant, and the Chandelier are some of the caves' breathtaking highlights.

9

Indian Echo Caverns

Image: Magda Ehlers

The Indian Echo Caverns, which have been open to the public since the early 1920s, are carved into the limestone of the Appalachian Mountains. Located near Hummelstown, Pennsylvania, this site gets its name from the echoes heard within the cavern’s chambers , which were once believed to be mystical by Native American people in the area.

Unique, immersive sections of the caverns have names like the "Crystal Palace," the "Echo Room," and the "Wedding Room," where, yes, real weddings are sometimes held!

10

Wind Cave National Park

Image: Francesco Ungaro

Wind Cave National Park, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is one of the world’s largest caves, but that’s not what it’s most famous for. One signature sight here is the boxwork formation , a rare lattice-like pattern formed by calcite deposits.

The cave system stretches for over 140 miles, though much of it remains unexplored. Popular tours take guests through captivating features like the "Ribbon Room" and the "Crystal Palace."

Why is Wind Cave called that? Mainly due to the "wind" phenomenon that occurs at its entrance. The cave's air pressure causes the entrance to draw in or expel air, depending on atmospheric conditions.

1

Thor's Well, Oregon

Image: Eric Muhr

Imagine there is a huge, circular hole in the sea where water seems to fall endlessly into an abyss. Spooky, right? Well, this is what you'll see if you look at the incredible Thor's Well, located on the Oregon coast.

Despite its name, it's not a well but a large, bowl-shaped sinkhole situated on the rocky shore. When you see it, it gives the impression that the ocean is being drained away! The ocean waves flow in and out of the hole, creating a dancing water spectacle. But that's not all; the site is surrounded by rugged volcanic rock that becomes slippery and hazardous when wet. It feels almost like stepping into a scene from a fantasy movie.

2

Devil's Den, Florida

Image: Michael Behrens

When it comes to spooky names, Devil's Den stands out. While its name might not sound very inviting—unless you’re a horror fan—this is actually an incredibly beautiful place with a charm that is hard to match.

Devil's Den is a prehistoric underground spring and cave system. Picture yourself walking through the state of Florida when suddenly you find a big, mysterious hole in the ground. When you look down, you discover a cave with a bright blue body of water inside. Scientists believe that the roof of an underground river collapsed here, exposing the water surface and creating what we now know as Devil's Den Spring.

If you haven't visited this spot yet, this is your invitation; you won't regret it!

3

Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness, New Mexico

Image: John Fowler

Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness is an incredible landscape filled with reddish-purple rock formations on eroded terrain . The site has amazing geological structures sculpted from sedimentary rock.

While this scene looks like something out of a science fiction movie set on some distant planet, this extraordinary place is not only on Earth but also right here in northwestern New Mexico.

Want to know what its name means? Bisti and De-Na-Zin are Navajo words that can be translated to "a large area of shale hills" and "standing rock," respectively.

4

Bumpass Hell, California

Image: Quentin Burgess

Lassen Volcanic National Park in northeastern California has something to surprise visitors: a geothermal basin.

We're talking about Bumpass Hell, a place with a name that has an interesting history. This spot owes its name to Kern Bumpass, a miner who, in the 19th century, was one of the first to explore this little-known wonder. Bumpass suffered injuries and burns due to the geothermal activity, which gave rise to the ingenious name that the area has today.

What you see upon arrival is a series of steam vents reaching temperatures of up to 200°F , rising from bubbling hot springs. And as if all this weren't enough, Bumpass Hell is framed by the beautiful Cascade Mountains.

5

Havasu Falls, Arizona

Image: Cara Fuller

While the Grand Canyon in northern Arizona is one of our country's best-known natural landmarks, it also holds a special spot that many overlook. Although a permit is required and access is a bit tricky, the effort is well worth it to find the beautiful Havasu Falls. The most common way to reach Havasu Falls is by hiking , but you can also get there by helicopter.

The waterfall is an impressive 100 feet high and splashes against the unique rocky backdrop. This spot is mesmerizing, and this fact is reflected in its name: Havasu translates to "blue-green water" in the Havasupai language.

6

Turnip Rock, Michigan

Image: Cody Doherty

The Great Lakes are well-known for their beauty and size, but there's a hidden gem among them that has been overlooked for a long time.

Picture yourself standing on the shore of a lake and suddenly spotting a large rock formation that appears to be balancing on the water. If you experience this, you're probably in the state of Michigan, precisely standing by Lake Huron, witnessing the incredible formation called Turnip Rock.

Its name comes from its strange shape: over the years, the action of the waves has eroded the base of the rock, making it narrow while leaving the top wide. As a result, the rock now resembles a giant turnip. The best way to reach this site is by kayak, so if you like that activity, Michigan is the perfect place for you!

7

Apostle Islands Sea Caves, Wisconsin

Image: Spencer Fitzgerald

Wisconsin boasts some of the most beautiful natural areas and holds unexpected scenery.

If you enjoy museums and art, don't miss Apostle Islands Sea Caves in Wisconsin. Here, nature is the main work of art, with water as the star sculptor!

In this spot, the water has drastically affected the cliffs, carving out wonderful rock formations with incredible shapes. However, all of this becomes even more amazing in winter when the site is covered with ice water and adorned with icicles hanging like spikes!

8

Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho

Image: Chris Bair

If you are someone who has always dreamed of traveling to space and stepping foot on the moon , this place might become your new favorite spot.

While it's not actually in outer space, Craters of the Moon National Monument in Idaho makes you feel as if you were there. As the name suggests, the landscape here resembles lunar craters. These pits and fissures in the dark, hardened ground are the result of volcanic activity that has occurred in the area over the past 15,000 years.

If you enjoy hiking, exploring caves, and taking in spectacular views, don’t miss the chance to visit this remarkable place!

9

Lost River Cave, Kentucky

Image: Bruno van der Kraan

As if descending into the dark depths of a cave weren’t enough, imagine the sensation of navigating an underground river! If you're not afraid of that scenario, then you can visit Lost River Cave in Kentucky.

After passing through a dramatic entrance, you'll enter the cave system, a mysterious world adorned with stalactites and stalagmites that decorate the entire space. But the highlight is the river flowing through it. Visitors can experience this adventure by taking a boat ride along the underground river with other guests. It’s an experience you definitely won't want to miss!

10

Providence Canyon, Georgia

Image: Shelby Cohron

Yes, the Grand Canyon is absolutely impressive and beautiful, but it's not the only canyon in our country. Right here in the US, we also have the Providence Canyon, located in southwestern Georgia.

Sometimes called "Georgia's Grand Canyon," this stunning place is approximately 120 miles southwest of Atlanta and covers about 1,000 acres. The rock formations here delight visitors with a varied color palette, ranging from pink to red, orange, and even purple.

In addition, the canyon's depth ranges from 15 to 50 feet, offering magnificent views to enjoy during the hike. If you love to explore, make sure to visit Georgia!