The most famous road in the world is probably Route 66, a road that traverses America, passing through eight different states from Chicago to Santa Monica. Spanning almost 4,000 kilometers, this road is often called the "Mother Road" and stands as a symbol of the American Dream, facilitating the movement of millions of people across the country.
Route 66 was part of the first Federal highway system, launched in 1926 shortly after automobiles became more common. Like other highways in the system, Route 66 was pieced together from existing local, state, and national roads. The highway gained rapid popularity due to its marketing as "the shortest, best, and most scenic route from Chicago through St. Louis to Los Angeles." Vintage motels, diners, and gas stations emerged along its length, each contributing to the iconic Americana aesthetic that Route 66 represents.
The route's rise in traffic ultimately led to its downfall. In 1956, President Eisenhower, who had observed the military advantages of the German Autobahn during World War II, supported the passage of a law to construct a new system of high-speed, limited-access, four-lane divided highways—today's interstates. As a result, various highways replaced portions of Route 66, leading to its official decommissioning in 1985. Today, only some segments remain as tourist attractions.
Route 66 is more than just a road; it's a lens through which we can explore the evolving American narrative. It has weathered the Great Depression, served as a route for Dust Bowl migrants, and witnessed the Civil Rights Movement. By traveling this road, we're not merely covering miles; we're traversing history itself.
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