1

Original Coke

Image: Deepal Tamang

How it all started. On May 8, 1886, Dr. John Pemberton served the world's first Coca-Cola at Jacobs Drug Store in Atlanta, Georgia, and American life would never be the same again. Based on coca leaf and cola nut, the recipe for the original Coke is one of the best-kept secrets in history. Since its invention almost 140 years ago, this mysterious, dark, sweet, bubbly, and stimulating liquid has become one of the world's most widely known and consumed soft drinks.

2

Vanilla Coke

Image: kkk

Vanilla Coke was first introduced in the United States in 2002. The new drink consisted of original Coca-Cola flavor with natural vanilla extract added to the formula. Shortly after its launch, the vanilla soft drink became a success, selling millions of units. However, by 2006, sales had dropped considerably, and the product was eventually withdrawn from the market.

Yet, Vanilla Coke would not give up so easily. Its fans began to campaign online to make the company reintroduce it. Luckily for them, the drink eventually returned to the shelves in 2007.

3

Coca-Cola with Lime

Image: stevepb

​​Many people add a few drops of lime to their glass of Coke, so why wouldn't the company launch a ready-to-drink product? Coca-Cola with Lime was first introduced in the United States in 2005 during a broadcast of American Idol. As the name suggests, it has the taste of Coca-Cola with the addition of lime flavor. Did you like it, or were you one of the many naysayers?

4

Starlight

Image: Joey Csunyo

A Coke inspired by space? Believe it or not, in 2022, Coca-Cola launched —no pun intended— a variant of the drink to bring the taste of space down to Earth. You're probably wondering what it tastes like, and so are we! According to the company, Coca-Cola Starlight’s taste "includes additional notes reminiscent of stargazing around a campfire, as well as a cooling sensation that evokes the feeling of a cold journey to space." Would you dare to try it?

5

Dreamworld

Image: Marjan Blan

Like Starlight, Dreamworld was a 2022 limited edition. In this case, Coca-Cola wanted people to be able to taste dreams. We have no idea what that means exactly, but it sure has sparked our curiosity. Not convinced yet? According to the company, Coke Dreamworld "bottles up the technicolor tastes and surrealism of the subconscious." If only we could travel back in time to put it to the test!

6

Cherry Coke

Image: Frank Tunder

Based on a mix of cherry syrup and Coca-Cola, Cherry Coke was first introduced in 1982 at the World's Fair in Knoxville, Tennessee. It wasn’t until three years later that the new soft drink officially hit supermarket shelves worldwide. Cherry Coke was the first flavored Coca-Cola, and its success was so great that in the following years not only did Light and Zero versions emerge, but it also has a large and strong cult fan base.

7

Coca-Cola Blāk

Image: himanshu Chaudhary

As if the caffeine already in Coca-Cola wasn't enough to wake up any sleepyhead, in 2006 the company launched Coca-Cola BlāK. This soft drink that blends the taste of Coke with coffee was introduced in response to the overwhelming success of the early 2000s energy drinks and coffee chains. Despite its novel and sophisticated packaging design, consumers didn't quite like the sweetener’s artificial aftertaste, and it was finally discontinued just 2 years after its launch.

8

Coke Plus Coffee

Image: Nikolai Chernichenko

Coca-Cola Wouldn’t give up and, despite Coca-Cola BlāK's fiasco, in 2021 introduced a new product that paired the legendary soft drink with coffee. The difference with its predecessor was that Coke Plus Coffee contained more real coffee, specifically 100% Brazilian coffee. If you think the company got the experiment right this time, you're wrong. Coke Plus Coffee barely lasted a year on American shelves.

9

Coca‑Cola Zero Sugar OREO

Image: Shubham Kumar

Soda that tastes like cookies and cookies that taste like soda? Coca-Cola and Oreo thought this was a good idea and in 2024 launched a limited edition collaboration that included an Oreo-flavored Coca-Cola and a Coca-Cola-flavored cookie. According to the companies, the products are "a delicious duo that celebrates friendship with every sip". Those who have tried them claim that indeed the drink tastes like Oreo and the cookies like Coke —whatever that means. The Oreos even contain popping candy for a real fizzy vibe! Would you be willing to try them?

10

Coke Cinnamon

Image: Alex Bayev

If they tried cherry, lime, and vanilla, cinnamon was the obvious next step. Coca-Cola Cinnamon was introduced in September 2019, just in time for the holiday season. It was supposed to be a limited edition, but it was such a success that it was re-released the following winter. The taste? As expected!

11

Diet Coke Plus

Image: Brett Jordan

With the turn of the century, sugary drinks got a backlash from groups advocating healthier eating. In an attempt to improve its image, in 2007, Coca-Cola launched Diet Coke Plus, a drink that, they claimed, was enriched with vitamins and minerals. The attempt ended up backfiring: the United States Food and Drug Administration wrote a warning letter to the company for violating its guidelines. Coca-Cola stated that Diet Coke Plus didn’t involve any health or safety issues, but the product was eventually discontinued.

12

California Raspberry and Georgia Peach

Image: One Day

Locally inspired by these states' signature fruits, California Raspberry and Georgia Peach were the first new Coca-Cola flavors since 2002. Launched in 2018 to compete with craft sodas, these new drinks promised to " add a pop of local flavor to the timeless taste you love." Although many people actually loved the new beverages, the company pulled them from the market in 2020. Ever got the chance to try them?

1

July 2nd

In a letter to his wife Abigail, John Adams predicted that July 2nd would go down in history. Why? Well, because that's the day in 1776 when the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence from Great Britain. But while the vote happened on the 2nd, the text of the Declaration of Independence wasn't approved until the 4th, so that's the date we celebrate.

2

Secret signers

The signing of the Declaration of Independence wasn't as simple as it might seem. In fact, signatures were added over time, from July to August. In addition, the names of the signers were kept secret from the public for six months. Why? Because if the fight for independence had failed, those who signed the document would have been labeled traitors, and under British law, that meant a punishment of death.

3

Washington invites

In the middle of the Revolutionary War, 1778 marked the second anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. As Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army, George Washington wasn't about to let the anniversary go unnoticed, so he ordered a double ration of rum for his soldiers to celebrate the holiday.

4

Something written on the back

There's actually something written on the back of the Declaration of Independence. This handwritten note appears upside down at the bottom of the back of the parchment, and it reads: "Original Declaration of Independence dated 4th July 1776." Just like we label the files we save on our computers today, it's believed they added the note to help identify the original document from other copies.

5

We are many more now

Many courageous people did everything they could to make the Independence dream a reality and help the nation grow. And it did grow. While there's no exact official data from that time, the US Census Bureau estimates that about 2.5 million people lived in America in 1776. By the most recent census in 2020, that number had grown to about 332 million.

6

John Adams' idea

It's hard to imagine the 4th of July without the classic barbecues, parades, and -of course- fireworks lighting up the sky. But even though these traditions are now staples, there was a first time for all of them. It's said that John Adams himself, in that letter to his wife Abigail, suggested using fireworks and illuminations to celebrate this important day.

7

Busy hospitals

While fireworks are beautiful and help raise patriotic spirit during Independence Day celebrations, it's also true that they can sometimes be dangerous. In fact, it's been reported that hospitals see more patients than usual on July 4th due to fireworks-related injuries.

8

Thomas Jefferson's laptop

Of course, laptops didn't exist at the time of the drafting and signing of the Declaration of Independence, but that's a fun way to describe the lap desk Thomas Jefferson used to write it. That's right: The father of the Declaration of Independence didn't need a grand marble desk or anything fancy to put his ideas into words.

9

Surprising coincidences

The 4th of July isn't just the day America officially declared its independence; it also holds some incredible historical coincidences. On Independence Day in 1826, both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams died, exactly 50 years after the birth of the nation they helped create. Five years later, in 1831, James Monroe became the third president to die on the 4th of July.

But it's not all about endings: President Calvin Coolidge was born on the 4th of July, 1872, making him the only US president born on Independence Day.

10

Millions of hot dogs

It's clear we Americans love hot dogs, and for good reason. This iconic food is closely tied to one of the most important days in our nation's history. According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council (yes, that's a real thing), Americans typically eat around 150 million hot dogs on Independence Day alone.

1

The Crossing (2000)

Image: Emanuel Leutze, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Of course, there had to be a film that reflected at least a small portion of the extensive political and military life of the first president of the United States. The Crossing focuses on the famous Delaware River mission commanded by Washington, a surprise attack against the British that would definitively change the course of the Revolutionary War.

Jeff Daniels' superb performance expertly captures George Washington's bravery and sense of duty, especially in relation to the patriotic vision that drove him to lead America’s independence.

2

Thirteen Days (2000)

Image: Cecil W. Stoughton, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

This historical political thriller dramatizes the intense 13 days during the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962. The film captures John F. Kennedy’s strategic mind and leadership qualities as he navigates diplomatic and military dilemmas to avert a nuclear war with the Soviet Union.

Starring Bruce Greenwood, Thirteen Days showcases a president under immense pressure steering the United States through one of the toughest moments of the Cold War. Greenwood’s nuanced portrayal of Kennedy’s resolve, fear, and commitment to peace offers a riveting glimpse into the decision-making process inside the White House during a pivotal moment in history.

3

Truman (1995)

Image: Greta Kempton, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

This portrayal of Harry S. Truman is a masterful take on an often underestimated president who led our country through the end of World War II and the first years of the Cold War.

In the role of Truman, Gary Sinise effectively captures the 33rd president’s ascent from a modest background to the highest office. Sinise embodies Truman’s integrity and willpower, while bringing up his pragmatic approach to governance, which earned him a well-deserved Golden Globe.

4

The Special Relationship (2010)

Image: Ralph Alswang White House Photograph Office, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The special relationship traces Bill Clinton’s interactions with British Prime Minister Tony Blair between 1997 and 2001, offering viewers front-row insight on power dynamics, how friendship develops in high-level governance, and its impact on global affairs.

Dennis Quaid brings to life the former president’s multifaceted persona, shedding light on his vulnerabilities. He perfectly nails not only Bill Clinton’s magnetic charm but also his ability to navigate complicated political landscapes and balance diplomacy with personal connections.

5

Hyde Park on Hudson (2012)

Image: National Archives and Records Administration, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

This historical drama depicts Franklin D. Roosevelt’s personal life and the complexities of leadership during a weekend visit by the King and Queen of England. Hyde Park on Hudson navigates through the 32nd president’s intimate relationships within his inner circle while working on strengthening the US-UK alliance on the eve of World War II.

Primarily known for his comedic genius, Bill Murray’s portrayal of Roosevelt reveals a lesser-seen side of the former president. Murray manages to capture his charm, wit, and burdens of leadership with a subtle performance blending the president’s public persona with his private vulnerabilities.

6

W. (2008)

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Oliver Stone’s W. explores George W. Bush’s journey from his early tumultuous years to his tenure in the White House. The film delves into his motivations, decisions regarding the Iraq war, and his personal and political challenges.

Josh Brolin successfully embodies Bush’s distinctive mannerisms, speech patterns, and the dynamics of his relationships with his family and advisers. The actor’s take is critical yet empathetic, providing insight into the former president’s character without caricature, and offering a deeper understanding of the man behind the president.

7

All the Way (2016)

Image: Cecil Stoughton, White House Press Office (WHPO), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

This TV biographical drama focuses on Lyndon B. Johnson’s efforts to pass the Civil Rights Act during his first year in office, while showcasing his persuasive tactics, political dexterity, and the moral challenges he had to deal with.

Bryan Cranston remarkably captures a leader committed to transformative social change who is, at the same time, burdened by the legacy of his predecessor, John F. Kennedy. His embodiment of Johnson’s larger-than-life personality, along with conveying intimate moments of vulnerability, earned Cranston much critical acclaim for bringing humanity to one of America’s most consequential figures.

8

Frost/Nixon (2008)

Image: Robert D. Ward, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Centered around a series of televised interviews between Richard Nixon and British talk show host David Frost, this riveting film showcases a battle of wits and wills. Directed by Ron Howard, Frost/Nixon offers a deeply human look at an isolated president struggling with the consequences of his actions.

Frank Langella plays Nixon in the aftermath of his resignation, as he attempts to salvage his legacy while grappling with the guilt and shame of his downfall. Langella’s masterful depiction of one of America’s most controversial figures goes beyond impersonation, which earned the actor an Academy Award nomination.

9

Amistad (1997)

Image: Mathew Benjamin Brady, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Steven Spielberg’s Amistad revolves around John Quincy Adams’ role as an attorney defending African men who revolted aboard a Spanish slaveship. The legendary Anthony Hopkins portrays Adam’s passionate arguments before the Supreme Court and reveals his commitment to justice and equality.

Hopkins also compellingly conveys Adam’s intelligence, determination, and the weight his legacy as both a former president and a champion of the abolitionist cause represented for him.

10

Lincoln (2012)

Image: George Peter Alexander Healy, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Focused on the final moments of Abraham Lincoln’s life, Steven Spielberg’s biopic highlights the 16th president’s efforts to pass the 13th Amendment, abolishing slavery.

The talented Daniel Day-Lewis delivers an absolutely iconic performance as Lincoln. He embodies the former president’s physicality and voice with such authenticity that viewers are transported to the heart of 19th-century American politics. Day-Lewis also manages to perfectly blend the president’s moral gravity, political savvy, and personal turmoil. His commitment to the role is so evident that it earned him an Oscar for Best Actor.