There's nothing worse than being called a "fly-over state", and frankly, it's an insult to the Buckeye State.
Here in Ohio, there are plenty of unique places you simply won't find anywhere else in America—and the entire world. And if you think Ohio is a follower, think again. From important steps in American history to common services we take for granted every day, Ohio was often at the forefront of many significant changes in society. The following are 14 reasons why Ohio is the most unique state in America.
1. First off, Ohio paved the way for mankind.
Man may have never conjured up the courage to walk on the moon if it wasn’t for one brave Ohioan.
2. Eight U.S. Presidents came from Ohio.
We're currently tied with Virginia for which state has the most—but give it time and that will change.
3. Ohio was the first state to enact laws protecting working women.
We've paved the way for mankind in multiple ways.
4. America can thank us for rock n’ roll.
Cleveland is the proud home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame—and you won't find it anywhere else in the world.
5. You also won't find the Pro Football Hall of Fame anywhere else in the world.
Looking at you, Canton.
6. Ohio’s state flag is the only state flag that's not in the shape of a rectangle.
We dare to be different.
7. The largest accessible glacial gloves IN THE WORLD can be found here in Ohio.
Did you know that? Take a trip to Kelleys Island and check it out.
8. We're home to the Roller Coaster Capital of the World.
Face it. No other roller coasters are bigger and badder than those at Cedar Point Amusement Park.
9. We’re also home to the National Museum of the United States Air Force.
You'll find it in Dayton and admission is free.
10. Ohio is believed to have been the first state to have an African American elected to public office.
John Mercer Langston, elected clerk of Brownhelm in 1854, is believed to have been the first African American ever elected to public office.
11. Ohio is also home to the first interracial and coeducational college in the United States.
Pictured is Oberlin College, which was founded in 1833.
12. Here in Ohio, you can find the world’s largest collection of Indian burial mounds at Hopewell Culture National Historic Park...
as well as what’s arguably the world’s most unusual mound, the Great Serpent Mound (pictured).
13. We're home to "Test City, USA."
Before major fast food chains such as McDonalds, Wendy's and Chipotle release a new menu item to the world, Columbus has first dibs. NPR, Business Insider and several other news outlets have reported extensively on this throughout the past few years.
14. Without Ohio, America would have no "heart of it all."
OUR COUNTRY WOULD HAVE NO HEART.
So, what do you think? Would America be lost without Ohio? Share your thoughts with us and anything else you would add to this list!
For a list of gems to explore in Ohio, check out our previous article: 16 Underrated Places In Ohio To Take An Out-Of-Towner.
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