Abroad In America

Written by Caroline Faubert | Graphic by Emily Snisarenko | Designed by Thalia Lauzon

5 International Sensations in American Culture and Their Origins

America: the great melting pot where cultures from all over the world can merge and flourish. Though this country was founded on international customs and immigrants, over the centuries the United States has come to develop its own distinct culture. Things like football and beer are deemed “so American,” but many bits and pieces of American culture have international roots. Here are five things people in the United States go crazy for that are derived from other parts of the world.

Matcha

This delicious and healthier alternative to coffee has a hold on the health and wellness-crazed population of Americans who also rely on their daily dose of caffeine. Even chains like Starbucks and Dunkin’ have begun to offer their own variations of matcha in recent years. The drink originally comes from ancient China, where it was so rare it was considered an item of luxury. The popularity of matcha tea quickly spread all over the continent of Asia, and then spread all over the world, reaching the U.S.

Marathons

Marathons are one of the most popular and intensive sports in the U.S. The training, fundraising, and actual events take months or even years to gain participation in a single marathon. Races are held in virtually every corner of the United States, with some of the biggest races being the Boston, New York, and Chicago marathons. These triumphant events date back to ancient Greece, where the first marathon was run in the small town of Marathon (hence the name), outside of Athens.

Hot Dogs

Hot dogs are one of the most stereotypical American foods. They can be found at pretty much any patriotic holiday, such as Memorial Day and Independence Day, or at any American barbeque. This grilling essential is actually an American version of the popular German dish of frankfurters, which were brought over to the U.S. by German immigrants in the nineteenth century.

Yoga

The practice of yoga is deeply integrated into American culture. Used for athletic reasons, de-stressing, or to improve flexibility, it is a very popular form of exercise, and is even sometimes offered in public education across the country. Yoga is an ancient Indian practice and can be traced back from over 5,000 years ago. While modern yoga in the U.S. typically doesn’t have any secular ties, its origins come from Hinduism.

Amusement Parks

Amusement parks in America attract hundreds of thousands of tourists every year, both domestic and international. They are a hub for thrilling rides, comfort food, and fascinating attractions. While these parks draw influence from the many fairs and parades that could be found all over mid-century Europe, the first amusement park was reportedly opened in Denmark in the sixteenth century.

In America, we all benefit from learning something from people of different cultures and backgrounds. It makes us better citizens, neighbors, and people. Our country was founded on the ambition and ideas of immigrants, and those roots can still be found here today. So next time you go to grab a matcha latte at Starbucks or grill up some hot dogs for a Memorial Day barbeque, notice how deeply America’s customs are connected to the rest of the world.