1

Jesse James

Image: Jaye Haych

Born in 1847 and raised in western Missouri , Jesse James and his brother Frank earned a reputation robbing banks, trains, and stagecoaches, and committing other offenses throughout the Midwest .

After gaining national fame as an elusive criminal, Jesse James's illegal career came to an end in 1882 . He was betrayed by one of his own, Robert Ford , who had met with the governor of Missouri to make a deal and bring James down.

Jesse James lived only 34 years, but the wild story of his life is full of infamous acts that seem like something out of a movie. And here's a fun fact: his son, Jesse James Jr., starred in two silent films playing his father!

2

Billy the Kid

Image: rod m

Ever heard the name Henry McCarty ? Maybe the alias William H. Bonney? If the answer is "no," you probably recognize him by his nickname: Billy the Kid .

In addition to committing robberies and assaults, this 19th-century outlaw gained notoriety for his role in New Mexico's Lincoln County War. Billy, born in 1859 , was arrested several times throughout his life but consistently managed to escape. However, his luck ended in the 1880s.

In the year 1881 , to be exact, Billy the Kid was caught by Sheriff Pat Garrett. That same year, a few months after his last escape, he was struck down at the young age of 21 by Garrett.

3

Butch Cassidy

Image: The National Library of Norway

You've probably heard of the Wild Bunch , a gang that intimidated the American West during the late 19th and early 20th centuries . Often considered the most successful train robbery gang in history, its members were feared guys, but the most notorious was its leader: Butch Cassidy.

Cassidy, born in 1866 , started his criminal career very early. Many historical sources state that he committed his first minor crime—store robbery—when he was only 14 years old !

However, as with most outlaws, his luck ran out. Escaping the law, he traveled to Latin America. The tales say he was in Argentina and then Bolivia , where he met his end in a shootout in 1908 .

4

Sundance Kid

Image: Ady TeenagerInRO

Another iconic figure in Cassidy's gang was Harry Alonzo Longabaugh, more famously known as the Sundance Kid .

Born in 1867 , his distinctive nickname originated during his time in the Sundance, Wyoming, jail, where he landed for one of his early crimes, horse theft. Legend has it that the Sundance Kid was a man of many skills, known particularly for his talent for poker and his ability to escape the law.

The tales suggest that Longabaugh traveled with Cassidy to Bolivia, where he met the same fate as the gang leader. Another theory says that the Sundance Kid returned to the U.S. under another name and lived in a small town in Utah.

5

Black Bart

Image: Joanna Kosinska

While crime and poetry might seem like an unlikely pairing, the outlaw known as Black Bart managed to blend these two things very well.

Probably less famed than the other names on this list, Black Bart was born Charles E. Boles (or Bolton) in England in 1829 . However, he relocated to New York with his family when he was just a toddler.

Between 1875 and 1883, Boles is believed to have robbed about 28 stagecoaches in Northern California and southern Oregon. But one thing distinguished this outlaw: on several occasions, he left behind poems at the robbery sites!

6

Al Capone

Image: Ashim D’Silva

It might be hard to believe, but before Al Capone became synonymous with organized crime, he actually worked at a candy store ! Can you picture him among candies and lollipops?

Definitely one of the best-known gangsters of the Prohibition era , Al Capone was born in New York as Alphonse Gabriel Capone in 1899 . Born to Italian immigrants, Capone moved to Chicago at a young age. By the 1920s , he had already made a name for himself among the city's criminals, smuggling and selling alcohol.

In 1931, his luck ran out, as he was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison for tax evasion. He was released in 1939 and passed away 8 years later.

7

Bonnie and Clyde

Image: Tengyart

Some say love's power knows no bounds, and the story of this couple seems to prove this.

Bonnie Elizabeth Parker and Clyde Chestnut "Champion" Barrow, known worldwide as Bonnie and Clyde , were two outlaws who committed a wide range of crimes across states such as Oklahoma, Texas, and Missouri during the Great Depression era . Literally partners in crime, they became popular icons over the years.

These two were recurring names in the headlines of their times, gaining notoriety for their robberies, both to banks and small stores. Together until the end, Bonnie and Clyde were fatally wounded in a police ambush in 1934 , when they were still very young. At the time, she was 23 and he was 25.

8

John Dillinger

Image: Tim Evans

John Dillinger , a mobster born in 1903 , led what was known as "the Dillinger Gang." During the Great Depression , Dillinger and his crew demonstrated their criminal prowess, accused of robbing more than 24 banks !

In 1934, John Dillinger became the first person to be declared "Public Enemy Number One" by the FBI. He was imprisoned multiple times throughout his life and, as the stories go, managed to escape jail twice using fake weapons made out of wood!

After a final attempt to escape, the criminal was gunned down by the authorities at the age of 31 as he exited the Biograph Theater in Chicago.

9

Pretty Boy Floyd

Image: Pepi Stojanovski

During the turbulent Great Depression era, a couple of outlaws were not only robbing banks and trains but also the national spotlight. Among them was Pretty Boy Floyd , born Charles Arthur Floyd in 1904 .

Floyd, who operated in the Western and Central U.S. , wasn't seen as a villain by many. Why? Besides robbing banks , he also used to destroy mortgage documents , something that helped many people, relieving them of their debts. Far from the sloppy appearance of many criminals, Floyd had a clean-cut and youthful look, which earned him his characteristic nickname .

His life met an end in his 30s in a shootout with the Bureau of Investigation's agents in Ohio.

10

John Gotti

Image: Jacob Spence

Known as " Teflon Don " for his slippery ability to evade justice, John Gotti was born on October 27, 1940 , in The Bronx, New York. He's widely considered one of the most dangerous crime bosses in U.S. history.

Known for his charisma and trademark hairspray look , Gotti began his life of crime when he was still a teenager. By the mid-1980s, he had become the head of the Gambino Crime Family, and throughout his life, he was accused of multiple crimes of varying severity.

Despite evading convictions many times, he was finally convicted in 1992 . He passed away ten years later while still in prison.

1

#15 - Die Hard (1988)

Image: Jodie Walton

Is it a Christmas movie? That’s a long-held debate surrounding the famous action thriller. But the truth remains: rewatches of Die Hard spike around the holiday season, making it the 15th most-watched movie annually.

After all, John McClane’s heroics to defend Nakatomi Plaza from Hans Gruber do take place during a holiday party . Even the sequel is set, once again, on Christmas Eve.

2

# 14 - When Harry Met Sally (1989)

Image: JESHOOTS.COM

A beloved rom-com featuring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan: some argue it’s not strictly a holiday film, but hey, it does have a pivotal New Year’s Eve scene . That’s enough to make it a cozy, rewatchable option for the season.

When asked about his favorite quote from the movie, Crystal said, "When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible."

3

# 13 - Scrooged (1988)

Image: LILLIT

Of course, Bill Murray's modern-day take on A Christmas Carol made the list. This '80s satire brings laughs to the timeless story of redemption.

In this version, a TV executive transforms from selfish to sincere after encountering a particularly violent Ghost of Christmas Present. A memorable moment from the movie is Frank’s heartfelt broadcast, "It’s Christmas Eve. It’s the one night when we all act a little nicer ."

4

# 12 - White Christmas (1954)

Image: David Beale

White Christmas is a musical that blends romance, humor, and, of course, iconic songs like the titular tune and "Sisters."

Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye star as two showbiz buddies who team up with singing sisters—played by Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen—to save a struggling Vermont inn. Audiences keep returning to this classic for its Technicolor charm and a touch of holiday nostalgia.

5

# 11 - The Holiday (2006)

Image: Annie Spratt

The holidays, as told from a small English village and L.A. simultaneously. This 2006 movie, in which Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz swap homes across continents , quickly became a beloved classic.

With its cozy English countryside setting, dreamy L.A. vibes, and plenty of holiday cheer, The Holiday is a festive favorite for anyone who believes in personal growth and serendipitous love stories.

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# 10 - Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

Image: Alicia Slough

In this 1947 film, Kris Kringle, played by Edmund Gwenn, must prove in court that he is the real Santa Claus . The movie also features a young Natalie Wood as Susan, a precocious girl whose belief in Santa—and magic—is eventually restored.

A feel-good story that questions the existence of Santa, this classic beautifully intertwines a court case with holiday charm and a message of faith.

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# 9 - Frosty the Snowman (1969)

Image: Earl Wilcox

One of the most recognizable Christmas characters, Frosty the Snowman—the hero of the titular song—was brought to life in animated form, complete with his pipe and iconic hat.

A gem released in the late ‘60s, this TV special tells the magical story of the jolly snowman brought to life by a hat , who, aided by children, embarks on a quest to avoid melting.

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# 8 - The Santa Clause (1994)

Image: Mitya Ivanov

In this well-known comedy, a divorced dad—played by Tim Allen—transforms into Santa Claus and must take on his role to preserve the Santa mythos .

Of course, this comedy holiday feature wouldn’t be complete without heartfelt father-and-son moments. Or hilarious sleigh ride scenes!

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# 7 - How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Image: Alex Stone

Jim Carrey is a mean one in this portrayal of Dr. Seuss’s anti-holiday hero ! Although the actor has shared many stories about how grueling it was to film the entire movie wearing the heavy costume—especially during the hot months—no one can argue that this film has become one of the most memorable and rewatched Christmas comedies.

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# 6 - National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)

Image: Inna Lesyk

Chevy Chase stars in this comedy about a disaster-prone dad trying to create a perfect family Christmas. From setting up over-the-top house lights to dealing with the chaotic Cousin Eddie, people love returning to this classic for its laugh-out-loud moments.

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# 5 - A Christmas Story (1983)

Image: Erica Marsland Huynh

Simple: Ralphie wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Is he going to get it? This movie, set in 1940s Indiana, is full of nostalgia , humor, and iconic scenes like the infamous leg lamp and triple-dog dares.

Fans adore A Christmas Story for its dry humor and the way it captures childhood anticipation during the holidays.

12

# 4 - The Polar Express (2004)

Image: Matt Flores

All aboard! This animated film, featuring Tom Hanks in several adult roles, has become ingrained in the memories of millions of kids and their families.

Based on the beloved book, the movie follows a child who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole , where, hopefully, he will start believing in the magic of Santa Claus again.

13

# 3 - It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

Image: Josh Harrison

This wasn’t an immediate hit, but it became a holiday icon through the magic of TV reruns. In this classic, James Stewart plays George, a man who discovers his worth after an angel shows him what life would be like if he had never been born .

Everybody loves the yearly reminder of the impact that one’s life can have—and of the power of kindness.

14

# 2 - Elf (2003)

Image: Rajesh Kavasseri

Will Ferrell’s elfish character takes second place as the most-watched holiday movie every year. In it, a human raised by elves heads to New York to find his biological father.

Slapstick comedy meets wholesome Christmas charm in this holiday staple. Audiences love it for its whimsical humor and quotable lines.

15

#1 - Home Alone (1990)

Image: Juliana Malta

Did you guess it? The first place on this list goes to the adventures of young Kevin McCallister. He is left behind when his family goes on holiday and has to set up endless booby traps to defend himself and his home from burglars .

This holiday classic eventually became a franchise, but it was the original Home Alone , starring Macaulay Culkin, that became a perennial favorite.

1

Tri-State tornado

Image: Greg Johnson

In 1925, the Tri-State Tornado carved a path of destruction across Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana. With winds exceeding 300 mph, it remains the deadliest tornado in U.S. history, claiming more than 700 lives and leaving thousands homeless.

This record-breaking F5 tornado—classified as such by modern standards—traveled over 200 miles in just three and a half hours, leveling entire towns. Its unprecedented speed and longevity exposed the limitations of early warning systems, prompting significant advancements in tornado research and forecasting.

2

The Dust Bowl

Image: Sophia Simoes

The 1930s Dust Bowl was a man-made disaster exacerbated by a severe drought across the Great Plains. Decades of over-plowing and unsustainable farming practices had left the farmland highly vulnerable to erosion.

When the drought struck, winds swept loose soil into colossal clouds that darkened cities and devastated remaining crops. These massive dust storms, known as "Black Blizzards," choked the skies and forced thousands of families to abandon their homes . Eventually, the disaster led to significant agricultural reforms under the New Deal.

3

Lake Michigan's seiche wave

Image: Silas Baisch

On the morning of June 26, 1954, a 10-foot-high seiche wave crashed onto the Chicago shoreline , sweeping away eight people and injuring many others. But what exactly is a "seiche wave"?

According to researchers, seiche waves are large, sudden standing waves that form in enclosed bodies of water due to extreme atmospheric changes, such as abrupt shifts in air pressure or strong winds. This rare event shocked the Midwest and prompted scientists to study lake oscillations and their connection to storm systems.

4

Great Alaska earthquake

Image: Joris Beugels

In 1964, Alaska was struck by a devastating earthquake with a magnitude of 9.2, making it the most powerful ever recorded in North America and the second most powerful worldwide. Lasting four minutes and thirty-eight seconds, the earthquake triggered massive tsunamis and landslides across the state, along with significant geographic changes —some coastlines sank while others rose dramatically.

The destruction it caused led to major updates in seismic safety protocols and infrastructure standards throughout the U.S. This event emphasized the need for better preparedness and stricter building codes , to handle similar future events, especially in earthquake-prone areas.

5

Hurricane Katrina

Image: NASA

In 2005, Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans and the Gulf Coast, claiming more than 1,300 lives and leaving millions homeless, sparking an urgent humanitarian crisis. The storm caused an estimated $125 billion in damages, making it one of the costliest hurricanes in history , tied with Hurricane Harvey in the Atlantic basin.

Katrina exposed critical flaws in the region's levee systems and emergency response efforts, prompting widespread criticism and driving essential reforms in disaster preparedness and infrastructure.

6

The Peshtigo firestorm

Image: Tim Mossholder

On the same day as the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, a catastrophic firestorm near the small town of Peshtigo, Wisconsin, scorched approximately 1.2 million acres, making it the deadliest wildfire in recorded history . The uncontrolled blaze claimed over 1,500 lives, though the exact number of fatalities remains uncertain.

Since 1883, there has been speculation that the simultaneous outbreaks of major fires across Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin, including the Peshtigo and Chicago fires, were not coincidental but caused by burning fragments from Biela's Comet . However, this theory remains unproven.

7

Superstorm Sandy

Image: Matt Hardy

Nicknamed "Superstorm" by the media, Hurricane Sandy wreaked havoc on the Caribbean and the coastal Mid-Atlantic region of the United States in late October 2012. While it affected 24 states, the most severe damage was concentrated in New Jersey and New York .

The storm caused an estimated $70 billion in damages, flooding New York City's subway system and displacing thousands of residents. It also ignited a nationwide debate about the role of man-made climate change in amplifying the intensity of seasonal storms.

8

Death Valley heatwave

Image: Johannes Plenio

Death Valley recorded the world’s hottest temperature —134°F—in 1913. A testament to America’s climatic extremes, the region’s unique topography traps heat, effectively turning it into a natural furnace.

While the record remains a point of fascination for meteorologists and tourists alike, some recent researchers have challenged the accuracy of the 1913 measurement. Regardless, the region has come close to this temperature in recent years, indicating that a new record-breaking summer may be in the cards.

9

The Great Blizzard of 1888

Image: Jan Canty

The "White Hurricane" of 1888 buried the Northeast under as much as 55 inches of snow, crippling major cities and resulting in over 400 fatalities. Railroads were shut down, and many residents were confined to their homes for up to a week.

As one of the most severe blizzards in American history , the storm compelled New York City to bury power lines and redesign its transportation systems to better withstand future extreme weather events.

10

Mount St. Helens eruption

Image: Tetiana Grypachevska

On May 18, 1980, Mount St. Helens erupted in Washington, triggering massive landslides and pyroclastic flows, killing 57 people and causing over $1.1 billion in damages. The violent blast also reduced the mountain’s height by more than 1,300 feet and sent a plume of ash 80,000 feet into the atmosphere, disrupting air travel for weeks.

This volcanic event, the first in the contiguous United States since the much smaller 1915 eruption of Lassen Peak in California, is considered one of the most disastrous volcanic eruptions in U.S. history. Its aftermath raised awareness of volcanic hazards and underscored the importance of geological research in the country.