1

Apple Pie

Image: Patrick Fore

No dessert is more synonymous with American culture than the humble apple pie. Dating back to the colonial era, this sweet treat has evolved from simple fruit-filled pastries to an unofficial symbol of the United States. Whether served à la mode with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, apple pie remains a beloved classic for Americans of all ages.

2

Cheeseburger

Image: Christian Wiediger

While the two basic ingredients that make a hamburger—bread and beef— have been present in the cuisine of most cultures for millennia, historical evidence suggests that the first country where the two were combined into a "hamburger sandwich" was the United States.

However, it was the addition of cheese that catapulted this culinary creation to legendary status. Whether topped with cheddar, American, or blue cheese, the cheeseburger represents the spirit of affordability and innovation that defines American cuisine.

3

Clam Chowder

Image: Louis Hansel

Consumed by Americans at least since the early 19th century, clam chowder is a creamy soup brimming with fresh clams, potatoes, and onions. Although the most popular version of this dish hails from the shores of New England , there are many other regional variations like the Manhattan or Rhode Island clam chowder.

Served in a bread bowl or alongside oyster crackers, this comforting dish has warmed the hearts of generations, earning its place as a regional favorite.

4

Fried Chicken

Image: Shardar Tarikul Islam

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, fried chicken is a Southern staple that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of food lovers nationwide. The origin of this popular dish in the Southern states has been linked to similar recipes from Scottish and West African cuisines.

Today, thanks in part to brands like Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) and Popeyes, fried chicken has become a beloved classic enjoyed across the country and around the world, while still retaining its deep-rooted popularity in the South.

5

Jambalaya

Image: stu_spivack, CC BY-SA 2.0

Hailing from the Louisiana bayou, jambalaya is a flavorful one-pot dish that combines rice with an array of meats, seafood, and vegetables. According to linguists, its curious name comes from the Provençal language —spoken in modern southeastern France—meaning something like a mixup.

While there is some evidence that points to the origin of this dish being the French Quarter of New Orleans, what is certain is that it reflects the complex cultural tapestry of the South , with influences from French, Spanish, and West African cuisines.

6

Pot Roast

Image: charlesdeluvio

A quintessential Sunday supper, pot roast is a slow-cooked marvel that transforms tough cuts of beef into melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Simmered alongside hearty vegetables—often carrots, potatoes, and onions—in a savory broth, this comforting dish has been bringing American families together for generations.

Similar recipes are found in many cultures, but the origin of the "Yankee pot roast," is often thought to be a local variation of the French dish boeuf à la mode ****, also influenced by German sauerbraten and traditional Jewish cuisine.

7

Shepherd's Pie

Image: JIP, CC BY-SA 4.0

Shepherd's pie, with its comforting layers of seasoned ground meat, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, has long been a staple of American comfort food. Originally hailing from the British Isles—where it was made of lamb meat— this hearty dish found its way to American tables, where it quickly became a timeless classic.

Whether enjoyed on a cold winter's night or as a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, shepherd's pie warms the soul with its hearty flavors and rustic charm.

8

Cornbread

Image: Nik Owens

Cornbread holds a special place in American cuisine, particularly in the South, where it's considered a culinary cornerstone. Made from a simple mixture of cornmeal, flour, milk, and eggs, cornbread is a versatile accompaniment to countless meals , from barbecue ribs to fried chicken.

With origins in Native American cuisine , the role of cornbread as a pillar of the Southern diet emerged mostly out of necessity, as the heat and humidity of the region made it almost impossible to store wheat for long periods of time.

9

Macaroni and Cheese

Image: Ronaldo de Oliveira

Few dishes evoke nostalgic memories quite like macaroni and cheese. By simply combining tender pasta with a creamy cheese sauce, this childhood favorite has been delighting taste buds for generations.

While its origins can be traced back to Europe, macaroni and cheese became an American household staple during the 20th century , thanks in part to its convenience and affordability.

10

Meatloaf

Image: 4marknelson, CC BY-SA 4.0

Meatloaf, with its hearty blend of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and savory seasonings, is the epitome of classic American food. Originating in traditional German, Scandinavian, and Belgian cuisines , the dish as we know it today was likely first prepared in colonial Pennsylvania, using a mixture of ground pork and cornmeal.

This humble but nourishing dish has graced dinner tables all across the nation, and to this day remains a favorite for its simplicity and budget-friendly ingredients.

1

Origin of the name

Image: Brady Bellini

Contrary to what you might think, the name "Hollywood" has nothing to do with the film industry. The origin of the name of the city that would later become the Mecca of cinema is surrounded by many myths. One comes from the personal diary of a real estate developer named H. J. Whitley. Whitley recounts encountering an Asian man carrying logs on a dolly. When asked about it, the man reportedly replied, "hauling wood," which, to Whitley, sounded something like "holly-wood."

As colorful as this story may be, it is unlikely to be true. The legend that likely comes closest to reality involves Harvey Henderson Wilcox and his wife, Daeida, who purchased 120 acres of land west of Los Angeles. According to different theories, Daeida may have overheard the word on a train or picked it up from the estate name of an acquaintance from Illinois. Whatever the case, since the name was first written on Wilcox's 1887 land deed, it seems plausible that Daeida was the one responsible for naming the area.

2

Movie theaters were prohibited

Image: Arthur Rothstein, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

H. J. Whitley may not have christened the area, but he did a lot to promote its development. He invested heavily in installing electricity, built the Hollywood Hotel to attract land buyers, and developed the residential neighborhood of Whitley Heights. The area began to flourish, and by the early 20th century, the new municipality boasted a post office, a local newspaper, and two markets.

The inhabitants of Hollywood, by majority vote, decided to forbid the sale of liquor within the city, including in restaurants and hotels. Movie theaters were also banned . However, when Hollywood was incorporated into Los Angeles in 1910, which had no such restriction, history changed forever.

3

The motion picture industry conquers Hollywood

Image: Bain News Service, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

​​In the early 1900s, most film production companies were based in New York and New Jersey. However, the so-called "patent wars" encouraged them to move to the West Coast. At the time, the industry was virtually monopolized by Thomas Alva Edison, who owned the majority of the camera equipment patents.

Many companies rebelled against the abusive rates and decided to relocate to Los Angeles, where they could more easily evade these restrictions. In addition, the weather there was better and the days were longer, which allowed them to work more hours and spend less on electricity. If we add the low land prices to the mix, it’s no surprise that Hollywood became the ideal location to establish the capital of the motion picture industry.

4

The first film

Image: See page for author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The prolific film director D. W. Griffith, who had already made around 50 short films in New York, was one of the many who migrated to Hollywood to get rid of patent restrictions. In fact, he directed the first film shot entirely in Hollywood. In Old California is a 17-minute western set during California’s Mexican era.

Later, in 1915, Griffith would release The Birth of a Nation , one of the most important and controversial films in the history of the seventh art. This film, also shot in Hollywood, solidified Griffith’s reputation as one of the pioneers of narrative filmmaking .

5

The first studio

Image: masbet christianto

The first permanent motion picture studio established in Hollywood was the Nestor Motion Picture Company, a subsidiary of the Centaur Film Company from New Jersey. In 1911, brothers David and William Horsley built a rudimentary stage behind the Blondeau Tavern, at the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Gower Street. Production started immediately, with films such as Her Indian Hero and The Law of the Range .

Despite their pioneering efforts, the Nestor Company faced the same fate as many other small studios of the era: its lifespan was short . In 1912 it was absorbed by the emerging Universal Studios, although it kept its name until 1917. In the 1930s, the original building was demolished to build the Columbia Square facility.

6

The truth about the Hollywood sign

Image: waterandpower.org, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The Hollywood Sign is a cultural icon not only of Los Angeles but of the entire United States. Do you know how it ended up on top of Mount Lee? In 1923, a publicist erected the famous 50-foot-tall white uppercase letters to promote a local real estate development called "Hollywoodland." The sign was originally intended to last only a year and a half, but the booming movie industry ensured its longevity.

With the great economic crisis of the 1930s, the company went bankrupt and the famous sign was neglected—even losing the "H," leaving it to read "Ollywoodland" for several years. In the late 1940s, the city decided to restore it, but the Chamber of Commerce ordered the last 4 letters to be removed so that it would no longer be associated with the company but with the town.

7

First Oscars ceremony

Image: Engin_Akyurt

Everyone knows that the Oscars are the world's most prestigious film awards. But did you know that the ceremony has been held annually for almost 100 years? On May 16, 1929, as talkies were just beginning to rise in popularity, 270 film industry personalities gathered at the Roosevelt Hotel. That evening, 15 statuettes were awarded to give the booming film industry an air of prestige and glamour.

The inaugural night was filled with interesting curiosities. For instance, the recipients of the awards were announced publicly three months before the ceremony . Additionally, the event was not broadcast in any form of media. Another fun fact: In the early years, the Academy Awards included a banquet. However, in 1942, due to increased attendance and the impact of World War II, the banquets were replaced with more modest theater ceremonies.

8

Walk of fame

Image: Neelix at en.wikipedia, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Every high-profile artist has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame—even the Muppets have one! Along 15 blocks in Hollywood Boulevard, approximately 2,800 five-pointed terrazzo-and-brass stars honor some of the world’s most beloved celebrities, including actors, directors, musicians, athletes, and even fictional characters.

In 1953, the head of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce came up with the idea of creating a publicity stunt to promote those whose names stand for glamour and prestige. Finally, in 1960, the first star prototypes were installed, honoring icons such as Joanne Woodward and Burt Lancaster. Today, this popular landmark is visited by millions of tourists every year.

9

Time capsule

Image: StockSnap

Few people know that beneath the mythical stars lies a very special treasure. To commemorate the Hollywood Walk of Fame's half-century of existence, the Chamber of Commerce buried a time capsule beneath the spot where it originated, at the corner of Hollywood Blvd. and Highland.

The 16 x 16 x 18-inch capsule holds an array of artifacts that celebrate Hollywood’s enduring mystique. Among its contents are the screenplay of Casablanca , recordings of Oscar ceremonies from 1960 to 2010, programs from the musicals Wicked and The Lion King , and messages from various Academy members. These priceless mementos are set to resurface during the Walk of Fame's 100th anniversary celebration in 2060.

10

The Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Image: Judyfan1922 at English Wikipedia, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

With its legendary sign, iconic Walk of Fame, and countless beloved films and celebrities, Hollywood truly has it all. For this reason, it is only fitting that the city also boasts a peaceful and beautiful resting place for stars after their deaths. Founded in 1899, the Hollywood Forever Cemetery is the final resting place of many stars, including Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille, Don Adams, and Peter Lorre.

Located in the heart of Hollywood and adjacent to Paramount Studios, today this cemetery is a tourist attraction visited by many. In fact, on weekends during the summer the cemetery screens outdoor films for everyone to enjoy!

1

Empire State Building, New York City

Image: William Wachter

Undoubtedly, the Empire State is the most famous building in New York City. Every year, about 2.5 million people visit it, and it has been featured in countless movies and TV shows. Designed by American architect William F. Lamb, it was inaugurated in 1931.

For forty-one years, the Empire State Building was the tallest skyscraper in the world. The symmetry, limestone façade, huge windows, and the monumental and luxurious lobby are some of its main features. The design of this Art Deco masterpiece is so spectacular and breathtaking that in 1986 it was designated a National Historic Landmark.

2

The Carlyle, Miami Beach

Image: Luis Erives

Miami has the largest concentration of Art Deco buildings in the world. The city has a remarkable collection of around 800 structures built in this style. Visiting the Art Deco district along Collins Avenue, Ocean Drive, and Washington Avenue is like traveling back in time. And perhaps the Carlyle, for its sophisticated combination of horizontals and verticals, is one of the most emblematic.

It was built in 1939 by German-American architect Richard Kiehnel, and its façade has barely changed since then. Its interior, on the other hand, went from hotel rooms to apartments.

3

Boston Avenue United Methodist Church, Tulsa

Image: Quang Vuong

The Boston Avenue United Methodist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is one of the few examples of an Art Deco church. Beginning in the 1920s, little Tulsa became the oil capital of the U.S., and the sudden influx of resources encouraged investors to build increasingly grandiose buildings. Thus, this church is considered the first ecclesiastical building strictly designed for an emerging automobile culture.

Constructed from Indiana limestone, the church features a steel-frame tower topped with a copper and glass lantern. A seven-pointed star symbolizes seven virtues: patience, purity, knowledge, suffering, kindness, love, and truth. The complex also includes a sanctuary, a small chapel, and offices, while the lobby serves as a social center.

4

Union Terminal, Cincinnati

Image: Fred Copley

Cincinnati Union Terminal in Ohio is one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the United States. Its green terrazzo floors, fine-grained Indiana limestone façade, and vast rotunda adorned with industrial murals by Winold Reiss make the station a true architectural masterpiece. In fact, it is considered the pinnacle work of Alfred T. Fellheimer, who had previously designed Grand Central Terminal in New York.

Unfortunately, Union Terminal began construction in 1928, during one of the worst periods in the country's economic history. The Great Depression was marked by a decline in train travel, and the opulent Union Terminal was considered a white elephant. In 1972, it was finally closed. Years later, however, the building regained its former luster. Today, it is served by Amtrak’s Cardinal line, while the rest of the complex houses several museums.

5

Carbide & Carbon Building, Chicago

Image: Anthony Fomin

The Carbide & Carbon Building, a 37-story skyscraper completed in 1929, is one of Chicago's most striking architectural achievements. A bold example of Art Deco design , the building is clad in black granite and green terra cotta, with genuine gold leaf adorning its tower.

It is so luxurious that the Burnham Brothers architectural firm is said to have designed it to resemble a champagne bottle. In 1996, it was designated a Chicago Landmark, and in 2021, it was renovated and reopened as the Pendry Chicago Hotel.

6

The Guardian Building, Detroit

Image: G + L

This 43-story Art Deco skyscraper is located in downtown Detroit, Michigan. Nicknamed the Cathedral of Finance , it was planned by architect Wirt C. Rowland and completed in 1929. Both the interior and exterior feature numerous modern decorative elements, including mosaics, murals, stained glass, and even a historic Tiffany clock.

Forty craftsmen worked on its design and construction, which required granite, stone, terra cotta, and more than two million distinctive "Union Guardian Orange" bricks. In 1989, the Guardian Building was designated a National Historic Landmark.

7

Chrysler Building, New York City

Image: William Wachter

The Chrysler Building in New York City is one of the greatest examples of the Art Deco style in the world. It was designed by architect William Van Alen at the request of industrial magnate Walter Percy Chrysler and completed in 1930.

The building exhibits great attention to detail, featuring many elements that mimic Chrysler automobile pieces, such as the ostentatious ornamentation of the tower. In the lobby, the ceiling mural—once the largest in the United States—was painted by artist Edward Trumbull. Following the building’s automotive theme, it depicts scenes of progress, transportation, and energy.

8

Eastern Columbia Building, Los Angeles

Image: Jordan Rubin

Located in downtown Los Angeles, this emblematic 1930s building features a striking turquoise terra cotta exterior. The Eastern Columbia Building was designed by renowned architect Claud Beelman, who also created several of the city’s notable Art Deco structures. At the time of its construction, the building was so unique that the city allowed it to exceed the maximum height limit.

Its unique color, majestic vertical lines, iconic clock, and golden ornamentation attracted Hollywood moguls and stars from the beginning. It was first used as office space and was later converted into luxury apartments. In 1985, the Eastern Columbia Building was declared a Historic-Cultural Monument.

9

Circle Tower, Indianapolis

Image: Alejandro, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

The construction of a 14-story skyscraper in Indianapolis was a major news event in the early 20th century. "Circle Tower Is Rising," declared the Indianapolis Times in 1929. Circle Tower stands as a magnificent example of Art Deco architecture.

Built of ornately carved granite and limestone and decorated with Egyptian figures, Circle Tower has a unique, trapezoidal shape. This unusual silhouette was promoted as an icon of luxurious office space. The interior, on the other hand, features marble and terrazzo floors, bronze elevator doors, geometric flowers, zigzags, and concentric swirls. Details in the lavishly marble-clad lobby exude elegance.

10

Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles

Image: David Vives

The Griffith Observatory is one of Los Angeles’ most important cultural attractions. This Art Deco icon opened in 1935 and was designed with a revolutionary idea in mind: the cosmos should be accessible to everyone, not just astronomers.

Built of reinforced concrete on a 3,015-acre site donated by Colonel Griffith J. Griffith, it is a blend of modern design and Greek and Beaux-Arts influences. The building's most emblematic feature? The planetarium in the central dome!