12 Things That Wouldn’t Be Nearly as Popular if It Wasn’t for the United States

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Today, America is undoubtedly one of the most influential forces in global culture. Whether we’re talking about fashion, music, art, or food, our country has left an indelible mark on style preferences across the globe. 

While many elements that have become part of our collective obsession can be traced to other regions and cultures, some truly unique American ingredients are responsible for stirring up a worldwide frenzy. 

From burgers to baseball caps and blue jeans to Big Macs, let’s look at 12 iconic American creations that every corner of the planet is clamoring for!

1. Hollywood Movies

No matter how much time passes, the glamour and power of Hollywood movies have remained an enduring source of fascination. 

From star-studded classics like The Wizard of Oz to revolutionary blockbusters like Avatar, moviegoers can’t seem to get enough of Tinseltown’s creative output.

2. Deep Fried Everything

America’s diet may not be the healthiest, but that doesn’t stop people from all over the world wanting to try it out!

From deep-fried Oreo cookies to chicken nuggets and French fries, Americans have perfected the art of frying food. 

And as a result, they’ve created some truly mouthwatering treats that have become wildly popular around the globe. 

3. McDonald’s

If the world has a fast-food problem, countless people will rest the blame on McDonald’s shoulders.

The iconic fast-food chain had humble beginnings in the United States in 1940 and has become a global food juggernaut. As one of McDonald’s most loyal customers, I’m glad the trailblazing company has enjoyed success on a global stage.

4. Professional Basketball

Basketball is currently enjoying massive popularity worldwide for one reason: The United States.

Thanks to the success of the NBA and its roster of marketable, larger-than-life stars, professional basketball has become a global phenomenon. In fact, the sport has enjoyed appreciating popularity in Europe, rivaling soccer’s fervent fanbase in recent years. 

5. Reality Television

Pat yourself on the back, America. Because of you, reality television shows have become a worldwide phenomenon.

In 2023, it’s showing no signs of slowing down! “I must say, Americans have truly perfected that specific genre of garbage television,” deadpans one diehard fan of Temptation Island.

6. Democracy

As one of the democratic superpowers in the world, the United States’ influence on foreign countries’ politics, culture, and legislation is unparalleled.

“Obviously, we didn’t invent it, but the American Revolution and the United States Constitution were blueprints for a lot of other countries,” explains one woman. Unfortunately, this has also led to the U.S. being involved in many arguably unnecessary wears on foreign soil over the years. 

7. Sink Garbage Disposals

Leave it to America to concoct a household device that can dispose of food down your sink’s drain if you use it correctly — and cut off your fingers in seconds if you’re not careful!

“They are not allowed by default according to European Union regulations, but individual countries can allow them,” reveals one European. “It has to do with older treatment plants and infrastructure.”

8. Jazz Music

Contemporary music has roots in American jazz music, making it one of the most influential musical styles in the world.

The American South has given the world many gifts (Creole cuisine is my favorite), but jazz may be the most timeless. World music like R&B, hip-hop, and electronic music would have never been invented if it weren’t for some enterprising musicians in New Orleans generations ago.

9. Blue Jeans

It doesn’t get more American than a pair of denim jeans, does it? Since 1873, jeans have enjoyed massive popularity.

Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis were on to something when they added rivets to men’s work pants. Denim commands a high price, and the pants’ popularity in the United States means overseas customers must pay a premium to enjoy comfortable American jeans.

10. Propane Grilling

The great state of Texas has given the world two things: Delicious barbeque and propane grilling! Before propane grills exploded in popularity, they were never found in Europe and Asia.

Thanks to its stratospheric popularity in the United States, the rest of the world finally came around to the greatness of grilling with propane.

11. Pickup Trucks

I take back what I just wrote — oversized pickup trucks are arguably the most significant contribution to society on a global scale that America has given.

Large trucks scream, “I’m American!” and other nations have co-opted the vehicle to give their citizens a way to show their pride despite not living in the United States.

12. High School Proms

Thanks to television, many teenagers in foreign countries confess to being utterly jealous of American high school culture, especially proms. “I lived in Europe in a few different countries, and the amount of people I met who are so jealous of the typical U.S. high school life is unreal,” reveals one man.

“Things like having school teams, Friday night high school football, clubs after school, prom, and pep rallies. I’ve met many Europeans who say they wished they could’ve gone to school in America.”

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This thread inspired this article.