1

Bell-Bottom Pants

Image: Annie Spratt

If you're attending a 1970s-themed costume party, what would you wear? Beyond your personal style, no '70s wardrobe could be complete without a good pair of bell-bottom pants.

These pants were everywhere back then. Available in all colors and styles, they were worn by young and old alike. While their stardom spanned from the late 1960s to the early 1980s, bell-bottoms actually emerged much earlier. When? In the 19th century!

The first to wear this style of pants were American sailors in the 1800s. But their purpose wasn't to look trendy. Sailors implemented them because the wide design made it easy to roll them up when it was time to get their feet in the water.

2

Polaroid Cameras

Image: Josh Carter

Your current cell phone camera is probably better than the analog cameras of the 20th century. But let's be honest—there's nothing quite like holding a physical photo you just took, right?

Okay, we admit it: nostalgia is kicking in. But still, who can deny that a picture is a beautiful memory that gives a sweet, homey touch to your house? Thanks to Polaroid cameras, those of us who grew up in the 1970s and 1980s know this all too well.

Although Polaroid cameras first emerged in the late 1940s , it wasn’t until 3 decades later that they reached their peak popularity, becoming an unmistakable symbol of the era.

3

Music videos

Image: Jakob Owens

While music videos existed before the 1980s, that decade turned them into a global sensation.

One song marked a major turning point in the world of music videos. You probably already guessed it: we’re talking about Michael Jackson’s "Thriller." Released in 1983, this was one of the first music videos to feature substantial production value and investment, making it worldwide famous and setting a trend that would influence the industry for decades. Other unforgettable examples from the era include the animated masterpiece "Take On Me" by A-ha (1985) and the vibrant aerobic-themed "Physical" by Olivia Newton-John (1981).

While music videos remain a key part of the music industry today, they’ve evolved to be shorter and more dynamic, often prioritizing quick impact over storytelling.

4

Synthesizer Sound

Image: Orkun Azap

One of the most iconic and recognizable features of '70s and '80s music is the use of synthesizers.

First introduced in the 1960s, synthesizers grew in popularity over the following decades, until they became part of nearly every sound of the era—from rock and funk to pop, disco, and electronic music.

A great '70s example is Stevie Wonder 's "Superstition," which showcases the innovative use of synthesizers. By the '80s, the synthesizer sound had reached new heights, thanks to bands like Depeche Mode and Duran Duran , who helped define the decade's musical identity.

5

Disco Balls

Image: Greyson Joralemon

If there's one thing that screams 1970s, that's undoubtedly disco music. With icons like the Bee Gees, KC The Sunshine Band, and Donna Summer, disco emerged in America and quickly got the whole world onto the dance floor.

In addition to platform shoes and satin shirts, one of the objects that went hand in hand with this type of music was the famous mirror ball, also called the disco ball. Discotheques often showcased spectacular disco balls, and famous artists included them in their music videos, making those shiny spheres the stars of the era.

6

Roller Skates

Image: Nick Fewings

Disco wasn’t the only sensation of the era—roller skates were a big deal, too. In fact, the two often combined: during the '70s and '80s, roller discos became a hit, where people danced on wheels!

Roller skates were so popular at the time that they made their way into films and music videos, including the 1980 cult classic Xanadu and Cher’s iconic 1979 music video for "Hell on Wheels."

Although roller skates were invented in the 18th century, it was the 20th century that catapulted them to the height of their fame. Were you lucky enough to strap on a pair and join the fun?

7

Arcade

Image: Carl Raw

If you were young in the '80s, you probably had a joystick or an arcade token in your hands, as arcades were the ultimate hangout spots for teenagers back then.

We bet you remember titles such as "Space Invaders," released in 1978, or the legendary "Pac-Man," which arrived to revolutionize the entire industry in 1980. Other unforgettable classics included "Donkey Kong" and "Frogger," both released in 1981.

So, what was your high score? Did you dominate the leaderboard or keep coming back for just one more game?

8

Atari 2600

Image: Senad Palic

What do you usually do when you're bored at home? For most of us, it's watching a movie or scrolling through our phone screens. But a few decades ago, the entertainment industry looked entirely different.

In 1977, home recreation changed forever with the arrival of the Atari 2600, one of the first home gaming consoles. From that moment on, gamers could enjoy their favorite games without ever leaving the comfort of their homes.

9

Slang

Image: Buse Doga Ay

But it wasn't just about fashion, music, and games. We can't forget the prominence of slang during these two emblematic decades.

One of the first terms that comes to mind is "groovy," remember that one? It was used to describe something cool or excellent. Maybe you remember a friend saying, "I love your outfit, super groovy!" Another memorable expression from the era was "Gag me with a spoon," used to convey disgust or displeasure, as in "That's so cheesy! Gag me with a spoon!"

Other unforgettable slang words included "bummer," "rad," "hip," and "tubular," each capturing the spirit of the '70s and '80s in its own unique way.

10

Cabbage Patch Dolls

Image: silvia trigo

If you didn't have one at home, you probably knew someone who did—or maybe even had more than one. We're referring to the famous Cabbage Patch Dolls, the toy that caused a sensation during the early 1980s.

Launched in 1982, the Cabbage Patch Dolls quickly made their way into most American homes. Their popularity was so massive and abrupt that they are remembered as one of the most iconic trend crazes of the 20th century. People would form long lines outside toy stores just to hug one of these dolls. In fact, the craze was so intense that the media dubbed it the "Cabbage Patch Kid Frenzy."

1

American Bison

Image: Chloe Leis

The American bison once roamed the Great Plains in vast herds, a true icon of the American West. These massive mammals can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and stand 6 feet tall at the shoulder. Due to overhunting and habitat loss in the 1800s, their numbers dwindled dangerously low, with the species being driven to the brink of extinction.

Fortunately, thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, bison populations have rebounded miraculously and now roam freely through many of the United States' national parks, particularly in Yellowstone, where they have lived continuously since prehistoric times.

2

California Condor

Image: Kacie Long

The California condor is North America's largest flying land bird, boasting an impressive wingspan of nearly 10 feet. In the 20th century, populations dramatically declined due to various threats, including DDT and lead poisoning, poaching, and habitat loss. By 1987, only 27 individuals remained, with the species facing near-extinction.

Rigorous conservation efforts, including captive breeding programs, have increased the condor's numbers, and many individuals have been reintroduced to their natural habitats near the Grand Canyon area, Zion National Park, and the coastal mountains of California.

3

American Alligator

Image: David Clode

The American alligator, a formidable reptile, is native to the southeastern United States. As apex predators, they consume a wide range of prey, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. These powerful creatures can grow up to 15 feet long and weigh over 1,000 pounds.

Once hunted nearly to extinction for their hides, American alligators have made a remarkable comeback thanks to strict protection laws. Today, they thrive in swamps, marshes, and rivers, where they play a crucial role as ecosystem engineers. By constructing small ponds known as alligator holes, they create both wet and dry habitats that support a variety of other organisms.

4

Bald Eagle

Image: Ingo Doerrie

The bald eagle is not only America's national bird but also a powerful symbol of freedom all over the world. An opportunistic feeder that primarily subsists on fish, it is classified as a type of sea eagle, closely related to the European white-tailed eagle. Found throughout North America, this majestic bird has a wingspan of up to 7.5 feet and uses its sharp talons to snatch prey from the water.

Despite its name, the bald eagle is not actually bald. The name comes from an older use of the word "bald," which used to mean "white-headed." This bird of prey is also known for building the largest nest of any North American bird—a structure that can be up to 13 feet deep, 8 feet wide, and weigh almost 1 metric ton on average.

5

Gila Monster

Image: David Clode

The Gila monster, native to the southwestern United States, is one of the few venomous lizards in the world. These brightly colored reptiles are slow-moving and rarely attack humans, but they can deliver a powerful bite if threatened or mishandled. Gila monsters are a unique part of America's desert fauna, often inhabiting burrows or sheltering under rocks where conditions are favorable.

The name "Gila monster" refers to the Gila River Basin in Arizona and New Mexico, where these lizards were once abundant. Because the species has remained relatively unchanged morphologically since at least the Miocene, they are occasionally regarded as living fossils.

6

Red Wolf

Image: Patrick Fobian

A canid native to the southeastern United States with a size that falls between a gray wolf and a coyote, the red wolf is often classified either as a subspecies of the gray wolf or as a type of coywolf (a genetic hybrid of wolf and coyote). Despite their size, red wolves play a crucial role in their ecosystem as apex predators.

While their original range covered the southeastern United States to as far north as the state of New York, the species is currently critically endangered, with fewer than 20 individuals remaining in the wild. Efforts to save the species include captive breeding and reintroduction programs aimed at restoring their presence in the wild.

7

Florida Panther

Image: Maheera Kulsoom

The Florida panther, a subspecies of the cougar, roams the forests and swamps of southern Florida. Its modern range includes national parks and natural reserves such as the Big Cypress National Preserve and Everglades National Park. With only around 200 individuals left in the wild, these solitary and elusive cats are considered endangered and currently occupy only 5% of their historic range.

Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and reducing vehicle collisions, the leading cause of death for these big cats. Since 1982, this majestic feline has been officially recognized as Florida’s state animal.

8

Hawaiian Monk Seal

Image: Sebastian Coman Travel

Found only in the Hawaiian Islands, the Hawaiian monk seal is one of the only two mammals endemic to the islands, alongside the Hawaiian hoary bat. Its common name comes from the short hairs on its head, resembling a monk's tonsure, but native Hawaiians know it as ʻIlio-holo-i-ka-uaua, which translates to "dog that runs in rough water."

Considered one of the most endangered marine mammals in the world, with a population of about 1,400 individuals, these seals are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act.

9

Pronghorn

Image: Patrick Hendry

The pronghorn, native to North America's grasslands, is the second fastest land animal in the world, capable of reaching speeds up to 55 mph. Often mistaken for antelopes, pronghorns are actually unique to the American continent and are not related to Old World antelope species.

In fact, the pronghorn's closest living relatives are the giraffe and okapi. Remarkably, their incredible speed evolved as a defense mechanism against now-extinct predators, such as Miracinonyx , commonly known as the American cheetah.

10

Black Bear

Image: Robert Thiemann

The black bear, the most widely distributed bear species in North America, is found in forested areas from Canada to Mexico. These adaptable omnivores can weigh up to 600 pounds and are skilled climbers and swimmers.

Not related to grizzly or polar bears, black bears share more genetic similarities with the Asian black bear than with any other species. And before the migration of brown bears to the continent, American black bears were likely the only bear species present in much of North America. Despite their size and strength, black bears are generally shy and tend to avoid human contact whenever possible.

1

$10,000!

Image: Eyestetix Studio

Did you know that, for a time, there was a $10,000 bill? That's right! The bill featured the portrait of Salmon P. Chase, President Lincoln's Secretary of the Treasury, and it was the highest denomination of US currency ever to be publicly circulated! While there was also a $100,000 bill, the latter was only used for large transactions between Federal Reserve Banks.

2

The first President on a coin

Image: Sebastian Enrique

We're totally used to seeing Abraham Lincoln's face on a penny, but that wasn't always the case.

Lincoln's image first appeared on the penny in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of his birth, making him the first US president to appear on a coin, an honor befitting our great Honest Abe! More than 115 years have passed since that addition, and his face is still featured on the iconic penny.

3

Silver pennies

Image: Josh Appel

In addition to featuring Abraham Lincoln's face, pennies are famous for their classic copper color. However, there was one year when the penny took on a different hue.

During WWII, a copper shortage occurred, hindering the usual production of pennies. For that reason, in 1943, pennies were made of steel coated in zinc, giving them a silver color and making them closely resemble dimes.

4

2 and 3 cents?

Image: Towfiqu barbhuiya

Did you know that, in the 19th century, the US had 2- and 3-cent coins? That's right! The 2-cent coin was minted from 1864 to 1873. On the front, it featured a shield symbolizing the Union during the Civil War . On the reverse, it bore the phrase "In God We Trust," making it the first coin to use the motto . The 3-cent coin had two versions: the silver 3-cent coin (1851–1873) and the nickel 3-cent coin (1865–1889).

5

Long lifespan

Image: Shot by Cerqueira

While each coin is used with a different frequency, the average lifespan of a coin can be as long as 40 years ! Just think about all the places and situations it might pass through during that time. Of course, the more a coin circulates, the quicker it will wear down. That’s why the penny has the shortest lifespan , lasting about 25 years on average.

6

In God We Trust

Image: Kelly Sikkema

"In God We Trust" is not only the official motto of the United States (and the state of Florida), but also the phrase that appears on all US currency currently in circulation. But how long has this phrase been there?

"In God We Trust" first appeared on some coins during the Civil War, starting with the aforementioned 2-cent piece. By 1938, the motto appeared on all US coins, but it wasn't until 1955 that President Eisenhower signed a law requiring "In God We Trust" to be included on all US coins and paper money.

7

Precious metals

Image: Jingming Pan

Today, US coins are primarily made of zinc, copper, and nickel. However, back in the early days of the US Mint, things were quite different. In the past, US coins were made not just of copper, but also of silver and even gold!

Over time, using those materials for coins became too expensive, and production shifted to more affordable metals such as zinc and nickel.

8

Safety edges

Image: Joshua Hoehne

When coins were made of precious metals like gold and silver , there was always the risk that someone might tamper with or shave the edges to extract the valuable material. Fortunately, the brilliant Isaac Newton came to the rescue. He introduced the clever idea of adding reeded edges to coins, which helped protect them from opportunistic tampering. With these marked edges, any shaving of the coin would be immediately noticeable. Pretty smart, right?

9

The most coins in the world

Image: Sarbasri Bhaumik

The US Mint manufactures billions of coins each year for circulation, and while that’s nothing new, there’s something about it that might surprise you: the United States is actually the world’s largest producer of coins . No other country makes more!

Pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters are produced in large quantities every day. But that’s not all—dollar coins and special collectors’ coins are also minted, though in much smaller amounts.

10

"Paper" currency

Image: Adam Nir

Our paper money isn’t actually made of paper . It’s composed of 25% linen and 75% cotton. This blend gives US bills greater strength and flexibility, making them not only more durable but also more difficult to counterfeit. Plus, if you accidentally toss a buck in the washing machine, there’s a good chance it’ll come out just fine!