1

Teddy bear

Image: Oxana Lyashenko

We’ll start with the surprising origins of a global icon. While there is some debate as to the country of origin of the teddy bear, there’s absolutely no doubt as to where the furry companions of our childhood got their names. And, considering that the source of the teddy bear’s name comes from the highest office in the United States government , we think we can safely state that this toy is truly an American icon.

In 1902, President Theodore Roosevelt was invited on a hunting trip to Mississippi, on which his group cornered and tied a black bear to a tree for the president to shoot. Displeased by what he thought was unsportsmanlike behavior, the President refused and the bear was freed. This story was published in many national newspapers, and it quickly became extremely popular. So much so, that a Brooklyn businessman designed a small, cuddly bear and advertised it on his shop as "Teddy’s bear" . And just with that, our 26th President unwillingly named this quintessential toy.

2

Super Soaker

Image: Steward Masweneng

If you were a kid during the 80s or 90s, you probably played with the extremely refreshing Super Soaker on a hot summer day. This reimagined water gun featured an innovative design that added pressurized air for longer and stronger water bursts. Showcasing a futuristic design, the Super Soaker felt like shooting a sci-fi laser gun, which seems only reasonable considering it was created by a former NASA engineer.

In 1982, engineer Lonnie Johnson, who specialized in aerospace design, came across the idea of the Super Soaker while conducting an experiment in his house. Johnson’s prototype combined household items like a PVC pipe and a two-liter soda bottle. While rudimentary, this first design successfully shot powerful streams of water. The rest is history: Johnson was able to mass-produce his design, and the Super Soaker became the summer toy for millions of American children.

3

Slinky

Image: Adam Valstar

Just like with the Super Soaker, the man behind this iconic toy was a successful American engineer. In 1943, while investigating a way to suspend sensitive equipment aboard ships, naval engineer Richard T. James accidentally dropped a torsion spring he was working with. James noticed the curious way in which the spring kept on moving after hitting the ground, and with that, the idea of one of the most beloved toys of the 20th century was born.

Richard and his wife Betty initially made 400 "Slinkys", which were first carried by a department store in Philadelphia for Christmas 1945. This first production was sold in less than 90 minutes , and the Slinky quickly proved to be an instant success. To this day, approximately 300 million Slinkies have been sold all over the world.

4

Rubik’s cube

Image: Olav Ahrens Røtne

Let’s deal with the elephant in the room first: No, the Rubik’s Cube is not an American invention. However, just like the rest of the world, this tricky puzzle took the United States by storm during the 70s and 80s, so it seemed only fair to add this beloved toy to this list. In the 1970s, Hungarian architecture professor Ernő Rubik designed the first prototype of the Rubik’s cube, as a way to create a system with parts that could move independently. However, he realized he had built a rather entertaining puzzle when he tried to restore the sides of his cube. Rubik applied for a patent in Hungary and started selling his "Magic Cube" by 1975.

By the 1980s, the Rubik’s Cube became a global sensation. It is reported that over 200 million cubes were sold between 1980 and 1983. In America, this puzzle immediately gained status as a cultural icon: In 1981, the Museum of Modern Art in New York exhibited a Rubik’s cube, while the 1982 World's Fair in Knoxville, Tennessee featured a six-foot version of the toy.

5

G.I. Joe

Image: Justin Wilkens

In 1963, Manhattan inventor and licensing agent Stanley Weston came up with the idea of a military action figure . Perhaps unbeknownst to him, Weston’s prototypes would soon inspire G.I. Joe, the first toy to teach American children about how every U.S. soldier can be a superhero to treasure and admire.

Produced by Hasbro, the G.I. Joe series encompasses countless action figures throughout their almost 60 years of history. Most of the toys feature the titular "G.I. Joe Team", a league of military heroes that defends the world from the evil deeds conducted by the "Cobra" organization.

6

Frisbee

Image: Patrick Reynolds

If any kid playing around with a cool stick they found lying can teach you anything, it doesn’t take much to make a fun toy that children will enjoy. Case in point: In 1937, Walter Frederick Morrison and his future wife Lucille realized how fun it was to toss a popcorn can lid back and forth. After WW2, Morrison worked on several designs until, in 1955, he designed "the Pluto Platter" , the very first version of what we now know as the Frisbee.

The story behind the name of this iconic toy is rather interesting. Wham-O, the company behind the commercialization of the Pluto Platter, realized that Yale University students were calling their product by another name. Since the plastic discs resembled empty pie tins , they called them "Frisbies" after the Frisbie Pie Company, a pie supplier for the university.

7

Barbie

Image: Elena Mishlanova

Barbie truly needs no introduction : She’s definitely the world's most famous doll, selling over six billion units in its 60-year history. She has been featured in a myriad of TV shows and movies, including an Academy Award-winning live-action film in 2023. With such a prolific and wondrous career, it’s easy to forget how Barbie's story started: With an innovator watching her daughter play.

One evening in the 1950s, businesswoman Ruth Handler noticed that, whenever her daughter played with paper dolls, she enjoyed pretending they were adults. At the time, most dolls depicted infants and babies, so Handler created the prototype of an adult-bodied doll, which she named "Barbie" after her daughter Barbara. On March 9, 1959 (a date which is now Barbie’s official birthday), the very first Barbie doll was presented at the American International Toy Fair in New York City.

8

Hula hoop

Image: Patricia Prudente

The hula-hoop is definitively the oldest toy on this list: Archaeologists believe that children and adults played with hoops of some kind since at least 500 BC. However, in 1958, a plastic hoop launched by American toy company Wham-O became insanely popular, and with that, the hula-hoop mania was born.

Named after its resemblance to the hip movements of the traditional Hula dance, the hula-hoop is still a remarkably popular toy . Not only that, hooping is considered an excellent and fun exercise, promoted as an excellent way to improve cardiovascular health.

9

View-master

Image: Girl with red hat

Just like the Slinky, the View-Master wasn’t originally conceived as a kid’s toy. And, to be perfectly honest, at its core it is truly an entertainment experience for all ages: An innovative and fresh way of enjoying beautiful images and scenery. However, it wouldn’t be right not to include this wonderful device in this list, since it has touched the hearts of thousands of American children since 1939.

Created by pharmacist Edwin Mayer in Portland, Oregon, the View-Master was introduced at the 1939 New York World's Fair. While its original intent was to provide an alternative to postcards, over time it included cartoons and short stories aimed at children. Famously, the View-Master’s most popular reels featured Disney and Hannah Barbera characters.

10

Legos

Image: Xavi Cabrera

We’ll end this list with an absolute classic . With over 75 years of history and no sign of slowing down, Legos have truly shaped the lives of millions of children around the world. The true beauty of these colorful bricks is that they are only limited by children’s imagination which, we are sure you’ll agree, is definitively limitless. In the right hand, a single plastic brick can be the start of a giant dinosaur, a spaceship, or a bell tower.

The humble beginnings of Lego come from the town of Billund, Denmark, where a carpenter named Ole Kirk Christiansen started making wooden toys in 1932. Christiansen named his company "Lego" after the Danish phrase leg godt , which translates to "play well". By the end of the 1940s, the company was already producing an early version of its iconic interlocking bricks, now considered a completely ubiquitous cultural icon.

1

Ohio: Birthplace of aviation

Image: History in HD

Ohio proudly claims the title "Birthplace of Aviation," being the home state of the Wright brothers. While the first successful flight actually took place in North Carolina, above the sand dunes of Kitty Hawk, most of the brothers' ideas were first developed back in their bicycle shop in Dayton, Ohio.

Their achievement made headlines worldwide, and soon the brothers secured their first military contract for the aircraft that would become the first practical airplane sold commercially. As symbols of American ingenuity, these two Ohioans are remembered for their innovative spirit and determination to succeed—qualities central to the Midwest spirit.

2

Michigan: Freshwater coast

Image: Jeff DeWitt

Michigan is home to the largest freshwater coastline in the United States, thanks to its proximity to four of the five Great Lakes. This vast "unsalted" coast is a crucial part of America’s natural heritage. In fact, Michigan has the highest percentage of water area among all states, with a whopping 41.5% of its surface covered by water!

Its 3,288 miles of freshwater shoreline offer stunning scenery and numerous recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for tourists. As part of the nation's natural legacy, the Great Lakes also serve as a vital resource, providing freshwater and transportation for neighboring states and industries.

3

Wisconsin: Dairyland legacy

Image: Josh Turner

As the nation’s leading producer of cheese and other dairy products, Wisconsin is rightly known as "America’s Dairyland." Furthermore, the Badger State's dairy industry dating back to the 19th century, is deeply intertwined with its cultural and economic identity.

The commitment of Wisconsin's farmers to quality and innovation has made the state a cornerstone of American agriculture. Wisconsin cheese, renowned for its variety and excellence, is a staple of the American diet, enjoyed by millions across the nation.

4

Illinois: Land of Lincoln

Image: Naomi August

Illinois is often referred to as the "Land of Lincoln," honoring its deep connection to Abraham Lincoln, one of America’s most revered presidents. Though Lincoln was actually born in Kentucky, he spent his formative years in Illinois.

It was here that he began his political career and developed the ideals that would guide the nation through its most challenging period. Illinois honors Lincoln’s legacy through numerous monuments and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, which houses the largest collection of Lincoln-related documents and artifacts in the world.

5

Indiana: Racing capital

Image: Andrew Roberts

Indiana is home to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the world-famous venue for the Indy 500, a race that epitomizes America’s love for speed, engineering, and sportsmanship. Since its inaugural race in 1911, the Indy 500 has been a symbol of innovation and endurance.

These racing events are a key part of the region's identity, attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators annually, both nationally and internationally. Interestingly, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is also one of the largest sports venues in the world, with a seating capacity of over 250,000.

6

Minnesota: The land of 10,000 lakes

Image: Laura Kessler

Minnesota, known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," actually boasts over 11,000 lakes, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and a cornerstone of America’s biodiversity. The state's unwavering commitment to preserving these natural wonders has made these lakes a vital resource for both native wildlife and tourism.

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area, a wilderness area with over 1,000 pristine lakes, is one of the most visited natural attractions in the United States, drawing nearly 150,000 visitors annually. These lakes also play a crucial role in supporting diverse ecosystems, providing habitats for over 200 species of birds and countless other wildlife.

7

Missouri: The gateway to the West

Image: Intricate Explorer

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, stands as a monumental symbol of America’s westward expansion and the pioneering spirit that built the nation. Located at the site of St. Louis's founding in 1764, on the west bank of the Mississippi River, the towering monument was designed by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen and completed in 1965.

The 630-foot-tall arch represents the "gateway to the West," honoring the daring pioneers who ventured into the unknown to expand the nation’s borders. The Gateway Arch is also the tallest man-made monument in the United States and is part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, which commemorates not only the pioneers but also the Louisiana Purchase—a key moment in America's territorial expansion.

8

Kansas: America’s breadbasket

Image: Josh Redd

Often called the "Breadbasket of America" due to its vast wheat production, Kansas's wheat fields are a cornerstone of American agriculture, feeding millions both in the United States and around the world. With its rich, fertile plains, the state has been a major agricultural hub since the 19th century.

Kansas consistently ranks among the top wheat-producing states in the country, contributing approximately 15% of the total U.S. wheat supply. Other leading crops include alfalfa, hay, oats, barley, and corn. This significant output supports not only domestic food production but also exports to international markets, making Kansas a key player in global food security.

9

Iowa: First-in-the-Nation Caucuses

Image: Clay Banks

The Iowa caucuses have been the starting point for presidential campaigns since 1972, often setting the tone for the national race. This unique role gives Iowa outsized influence in American politics, as candidates focus their early efforts on winning over the state’s voters.

Although caucus-goers may not fully represent the nation’s overall demographics, the Iowa caucuses are still seen as a strong indicator of a candidate’s potential performance in subsequent contests. Candidates who perform poorly in the Iowa caucuses frequently drop out in the following days.

10

South Dakota: Mount Rushmore

Image: Nils Huenerfuerst

Mount Rushmore, located in South Dakota, is one of the most iconic symbols of American history, featuring the carved faces of four U.S. presidents. Completed in 1941, Mount Rushmore celebrates the leadership and vision of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

This monumental sculpture represents the nation’s ideals and the enduring legacy of its leaders. Carved into the Black Hills, the granite faces on Mount Rushmore each measure about 60 feet tall. No wonder the entire project took 14 years to complete! Nowadays, the site attracts over 2 million visitors annually, making it a central landmark in American cultural heritage.

1

Oprah Winfrey

Image: Ilyass SEDDOUG

If it wasn't for a professor's advice, we might have never got to meet the incredible Oprah Winfrey!

After graduating with honors from high school, Oprah attended Tennessee State University to study Communication. During her college years, she already participated in several different radio shows. While in one of her classes, she received a call that changed her life: CBS Channel Five offered her a very important job. At first, Oprah said no, as her father always insisted that she complete her studies. Accepting the position would mean putting her education on hold, so it was a difficult choice for her.

Winfrey told the situation to her Scenic Design professor, who immediately encouraged her to take the job. "This is what you study for, to get a call from CBS!" he allegedly said.

2

Bill Gates

Image: Tadas Sar

Bill Gates' work, intelligence, and journey as an entrepreneur to become the famous co-founder of Microsoft are admirable. Maybe that's why many are surprised to learn that Gates dropped out of college.

He began his education at a private school in Seattle, Washington. It's said that he demonstrated high capacities in math and science. During the early years of his education, he came into contact with computers, awakening his passion at a young age.

When he was 18 years old, Gates enrolled at Harvard to pursue a degree in computer science. During his time there, he became interested in programming languages. In particular, he wanted to design one for the Altair 8800, an early personal computer developed by MITS. In 1975, Gates decided to leave Harvard to create BASIC, which later evolved into the well-known Microsoft, co-founded by Gates and Paul Allen.

3

Steve Jobs

Image: Sumudu Mohottige

A similar path to Gates was that of Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple Inc.

Jobs attended elementary and high school in Cupertino, California. In the 1970s, while he was still in high school, he met Steve Wozniak, an engineering student who would join him in creating Apple.

Jobs was said to have a free and rebellious nature. Perhaps it was that spirit that led him to leave Reed College in Portland, Oregon, after the first semester in order to have more time to pursue his true interests: technology and design.

Although he didn't pursue what we know as a formal education, Jobs educated himself in numerous fields in different parts of the world.

4

Mark Zuckerberg

Image: Deeksha Pahariya

Jobs and Gates aren't the only tech geniuses who decided to drop out of college to take another path. Mark Zuckerberg joins this list.

Zuckerberg already stood out during his elementary and high school years for his mathematics and computer science skills. But it was at Harvard University that he really explored his potential.

Mark Zuckerberg enrolled at Harvard in 2002 to study computer science and psychology. There, he developed a number of applications and platforms, but one gained him all the fame. We're talking about Facebook, one of the most famous social networks in the world today. Two years after entering the university, he left to fully dedicate himself to his company, which was growing in success every second.

5

Ellen DeGeneres

Image: Ioann-Mark Kuznietsov

Not all the names on this list belong to the tech world. There are also some other showbiz figures. One of them is Ellen DeGeneres, the unmistakable comedian, actress, and TV host who has won the hearts of many Americans.

Her comedy and acting talents shone during her high school years in Atlanta, Texas. After high school, Ellen enrolled at the University of New Orleans in 1976 to study communications. However, after a couple of months, she dropped out in order to concentrate on her entertainment career. During those years, she did comedy and stand-up shows, gaining fame first locally and then nationally, eventually having her first sitcom, "Ellen," and then her successful daytime talk show, "The Ellen DeGeneres Show."

6

Steven Spielberg

Image: George Patient

Steven Spielberg is a talented and successful American film director whose name reached the ears of the whole world thanks to such classics as Jaws (1975), Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982), Jurassic Park (1993), and many others.

In 1965, Spielberg enrolled at California State University Long Beach to pursue a career in film production. There, he started to work on many projects, and in 1968, he decided to drop out of college to pursue his passion.

In the 2000s, the famous director returned to college and completed his degree, presenting the iconic Schindler's List !

7

Brad Pitt

Image: César Guadarrama Cantú

The art of acting is truly admirable, and we can say, without a doubt, that the best actors and actresses in the world have a great mix of natural talent and hard work. A perfect example is Brad Pitt, who also has one more ingredient: his spectacular appearance.

After graduating from high school in 1982, Pitt enrolled at the University of Missouri to study Journalism and Advertising. There, he became interested in acting and participated in different creative and theatrical projects.

Two weeks before graduating, Pitt made the decision to quit college and move to California, where he would evolve as an actor into the world-renowned superstar he is today.

8

Larry Page

Image: Greg Bulla

Lansing, Michigan, was the birthplace of Larry Page, the co-founder of one of the world's largest technology companies. But before becoming the CEO of a huge corporation, Page also walked the halls of college, earning several degrees before his dropout.

Page earned a Bachelor of Science with a major in Computer Engineering with honors from the University of Michigan in 1995. He then enrolled at Stanford University, where he earned his Master's degree in 1998.

During his years at Stanford, he met Sergey Brin, with whom he would later co-found none other than Google! The success of their co-creation led Page to not complete his PhD, which he was pursuing during those years.

9

Ashton Kutcher

Image: Nathan Dumlao

When it comes to talented, hard-working, and handsome actors, Brad Pitt isn't the only one. Another one with all those attributes is Ashton Kutcher.

Kutcher is really smart. His hard work and intelligence led him to enroll at the University of Iowa in 1996, where he pursued a degree in biochemical engineering. But his student life was cut short when a talent agency discovered him.

In 1998, he decided to drop out of college to pursue his growing modeling and acting career. A few years ago, the actor famously declared, "I pursued something I was passionate about [...] So, that was the right decision for me."

10

Alicia Keys

Image: Soundtrap

Another artist on this list is none other than Alicia Keys, a major name in the entertainment world.

From a very young age, Alicia was encouraged to pursue her talent and artistic interests. She attended elementary and high schools specialized in arts, where she developed many of her musical talents.

After graduating from high school at 16, Keys was accepted into the Juilliard School in Manhattan, which is proof of her immense talent. However, the singer and songwriter decided to drop out of college a few months after being accepted in order to pursue her dreams as a singer. She signed her first record deal shortly after, and the rest is history!