Inspired by Fortune’s list under the same name, here’s our version. All do respect to Fortune, but some items that shouldn’t be there were there and some that should be there weren’t there. So here we go, in no particular order.
71) Old Glory
The American flag is a universal symbol of freedom and safe haven, in addition — of course — to representing the most powerful and proudest nation on Earth.
72) Fireworks
Not invented in America but certainly utilized widely here. Whether it’s the Macy’s fireworks show on television, Disney World, or your own backyard, no Fourth of July celebration is complete without fireworks of some kind.

No airconditioning
73) Our Founding Fathers
George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and their patriotic allies. Great men all.
74) Colonial Williamsburg
The historical site allows you to travel back to colonial America in a non-tourist trap manner. Its buildings actually date from the 17th and 18th centuries, though some have apparently been restored.
75) NASCAR
Come on, no Americana list would be complete without NASCAR.
76) The Florida Keys
Or, the Conch Republic to some.

Via Amazon.com
77) Amazon.com
You can buy just about anything from one website. Based in Seattle.
78) The White House
Owned by no single man, only the American people. Home to every president since John Adams.
79) Emergency Rooms
I speak from experience on this one, unfortunately. If I need to be seriously injured, there’s no place I’d rather be seriously injured.

Via nih.gov
80) The Smithsonian
Founded thanks to an endowment from a British scientist who never visited the United States.


by Stephan Tawney on July 3, 2010