The Peace of Westphalia in 1648 marked the end of the Eighty Years' War between the Spanish and the Dutch, and the end of the German portion of the Thirty Years' War. During these peace talks, world powers signed treaties and divided up the land, creating the modern state system as we know it.

The amount of countries in the world has continued to grow since Westphalia, and today we have almost 200. Over the centuries, new countries are typically created in the wake of conflict, war, and colonization. Presidents, prime ministers, and other relevant parties present proposals, negotiate terms, and divide up territory in some cases. In other cases, particular groups of people attached to a geographical area seek independence.

Sometimes proposals fail, involved parties don't like the terms, or the rest of the world doesn't support independence. Below, you will find four countries that almost existed.

Arab Islamic Republic

During WWI, the British promised Arabs, especially those in Egypt, a single Arab state if they rose up and fought against the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans were defeated, but the British never fulfilled their promise. Ultimately, the U.K. and France, with assent from Russia and Italy, created the nations of today's Middle East. Unhappy with the way borders were drawn, Arabs continued to hope for a single state. One of the biggest proponents was Muammar Gaddafi, the late Libyan dictator. He spent much of his early years trying to form a unified Arab state.

Gaddafi began close to home and tried to get Tunisia's dictator, Habib Bourguiba, to agree to merge Tunisia and Libya into one in the early 1970s. Bourguiba was worried Egypt would become too powerful because of their relationship with Libya, so he initially rejected the idea. Eventually, Bourguiba agreed and signed a declaration of the unification at a meeting with Gaddafi on the island of Djerba in 1974. Under the new Arab Islamic Republic, Bourguiba would be president of the country and Gaddafi would be the head of the military. The leaders scheduled referendums for votes in their respective countries to ratify the agreement, but internal opposition prevented the deal from ever coming to fruition.

Quebec

Quebec is Canada's largest province by area and second-largest by population, and it almost existed as its own country. Quebec's beginnings are rooted in New France, established by the French in the early 1600s. Since the British acquired New France in 1763, those native to the area have fought to maintain recognition as a founding group within Canada. During this period, the British allowed the French settlers to live under French law and practice Catholicism in an event to avoid revolution like that which occurred in the Thirteen Colonies.

In the 1960s, Quebec's French-speaking community began to organize as a Québécois majority, building their own state apparatus to protect and "enhance their social, cultural, demographic, political and economic power." Ultimately the Québécois attempted to secede from Canada to form a new country in 1995. During a province-wide vote, 49.4% of residents voted for independence from Canada, and 50.6 percent of residents voted to keep the status quo. Today Quebec maintains its French roots and language, and the fight for independence has gone by the wayside.

North American Technate

The Great Depression was a difficult time for U.S. residents, causing a wide variety of economic and political philosophies to emerge around the globe. In the U.S. and Canada, the new philosophy at the time was technocracy, which hinged on the idea that politicians, who they viewed as corrupt and ineffective, needed to be replaced with economists, scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs. People were looking for relief and a better way. President Franklin Roosevelt's answer to the Great Depression was the New Deal, another economic pathway. Once this series of reforms were signed into law, technocrats lost their appeal to most. Canada went as far as to outlaw the movement.

The most active group that advocated technocracy was Technocracy Incorporated, the brainchild of founder Howard Scott. The group wasn't very popular, but they did offer many proposals. One, in particular, was to combine Central and North America into a "technate." The group argued that the natural boundaries of this large landmass provided a foundation for an independent, self-sufficient superstate, similar to the Soviet Union, making North American Technate a country which almost existed. As the economy recovered after the New Deal, the ideas of the technocrats faded into oblivion.

Intermarium

World War I left the globe fearing Germany and doubting Russia's intentions, creating a desire to keep both countries in check. The original Intermarium plan was for a large country to act as a buffer between Russia and Germany, and protect those who lived in the area between and could easily fall victim to either side during war. Jozef Pilsudski, the Polish leader, developed this geopolitical strategy involving the land stretching from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea, which included Ukraine, Lithuania, and Belarus, in addition to Poland. After the Russian Empire dissolved at the end of WWI, these countries went through a brief period of independence. Pilsudski believed if they acted together, they could protect their sovereignty.

Most of the world's major powers believed that an Intermarium alliance wouldn't last, or they were fearful of a new large country becoming too powerful under Polish leadership. France was the only country to support the creation of the new state. Intermarium never formed. Many researchers, academics, and survivors of WWI question what might have been if Intermarium had become a country who had the capability and resources to defend from Germany and Russia. The Intermarium Project faded for some time but reemerged periodically throughout the century. The Soviet Union censored discussion of the project in Central and Eastern Europe during the Cold War, ultimately causing the original idea to fade. Yet, since the fall of the USSR and Russia's aggression towards Ukraine, talks about Intermarium have increasingly resurfaced as having potential in the near future. Intermarium almost existed, but all hope is not lost.

In 1959, Alaska and Hawaii became the two most recent U.S. territories to gain statehood. However, they may not be the last. Below, we reveal five places that could realistically become U.S. states in the near future.

Puerto Rico

The U.S. has had a presence in Puerto Rico since it claimed the island for its own during the Spanish–American War of 1898. Initially, the U.S. relied on military governance to police the island, but its main goal was to Americanize its new territory. Through the Jones-Shafroth Act, the U.S. was able to grant U.S. citizenship to Puerto Rican residents in 1917. The symbiotic relationship, which has only grown over the last century, makes it feasible that Puerto Rico could become a U.S. state.

In 1951, the residents of Puerto Rico voted for commonwealth status after President Truman signed the Puerto Rico Commonwealth Bill. This gave the island more autonomy to create its own constitution. Yet, Puerto Rico has faced decades-long financial struggles. Today, it continues to receive aid from the United States. Additionally, the relationship between the U.S. and Puerto Rico has remained a hot topic in Puerto Rican politics, which has led to a handful of referendums over the years.

In the most recent referendum in 2012, a majority of voters indicated they were not happy with Puerto Rico's status as a U.S. territory. When given the choice to become a U.S. state, an independent country, or a "sovereign free associated state," more than 60% of Puerto Rican voters voted for U.S. statehood.

Guam

This tiny island in the western Pacific also came under U.S. control in 1898 as a result of the Spanish–American War. Guam has long served as a strategic location for the United States. During the Second World War, both Guam and the Philippines served as important vantage points for U.S. military engagements in Asia.

Under War Plan Orange, the U.S. utilized Guam's advantageous geographic location to coordinate intelligence-gathering operations in Asia.

When the U.S. took control of Guam, it also made the island an official territory. However, the native residents of Guam (the Chamorros) were not U.S. citizens until the 1950 Organic Act of Guam was signed into law by President Truman. Over time, the people of Guam have moved toward self-government. However, they have not ceased petitioning the U.S. for a more mutually advantageous Commonwealth Act. Unfortunately, each successive U.S. administration has rejected amendments considered detrimental to American military advantage in the region.

Still, the most likely reason Guam could become a U.S. state is the military flexibility the island affords the U.S. in terms of its relations with Japan, North Korea, and China. If the U.S. allows Guam to become a commonwealth and move towards complete autonomy, it will likely lose its defense advantages. So, it's mutually beneficial to both Guam and the U.S. for the former to become a U.S. state.

New York City

Talk of New York City becoming its own state has been a hot topic on and off over the years. However, the idea has received scant support across the continental plain and in Congress, as well. The most recent mention of secession came from New York state senator Daphne Jordan in early 2019. She introduced legislation to examine the costs of allowing the Greater New York City area to become its own state.

Jordan proposes that the new state should include all five of New York City's boroughs plus the counties of Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, and Rockland. This state would be separate from the 53 counties in upstate New York. This would divide the state of New York into two separate regions. One would encompass all of the New York City boroughs and four counties. Meanwhile, the other would comprise the 53 counties in upstate New York.

Proponents of the new state highlight the political and economic differences between New York City and upstate New York. Meanwhile, detractors argue that revenues generated in New York City also benefit the upstate economy. So, will New York City become a U.S. state? Doubtful, but it could happen if Jordan and the New York legislature have their way.

U.S. Virgin Islands

In the 17th and 18th centuries, the U.S. Virgin Islands were part of the Danish West Indies. For many years, the Danes oversaw the sugar plantations on the island and profited greatly from the sugar trade. When sugar prices fell, they found it a challenge to manage the financial fallout. In the 1860s, U.S. Secretary of State John Hay began to explore the possibility of a peaceful acquisition of the islands. Yet, acquiring the U.S. Virgin Islands didn't become a priority for the United States until World War I.

The U.S. was concerned that Germany was setting its sights on Denmark, which would give them control of the islands and easier access to the United States. This prompted the U.S. to pressure Denmark to sell. After a payment of $25,000,000 worth of gold coins, Denmark transferred its ownership of the Virgin Islands to the U.S. in 1917. The U.S. finally granted citizenship to U.S. Virgin Island residents in 1927 and 1932.

Today, the U.S. Virgin Islands have no formal constitution, even though they are self-governing in nature. Also, residents can't vote in U.S. elections. This state of affairs led the United Nations Special Committee on Decolonization to urge legislators to help residents understand their options for self-determination. Past referendums on the issue were hampered by low voter turnout, however. Yet, as both Guam and Puerto Rico contemplate U.S. statehood, it's very likely that the Virgin Islands will follow suit.

District of Columbia

The District of Columbia was created as a federal district. However, throughout the years, residents have pushed for statehood in order to receive the same right to legislative representation as other U.S. citizens. In 2016, almost 80 percent of voters in the District of Columbia approved petitioning Congress for statehood. The measure for statehood included stipulations about a state constitution and congressional representation. Also, District of Columbia residents want their new state to be called New Columbia.

So, what initiatives have been implemented so far? The most important is the New Columbia Statehood Commission, which was formed to coordinate the region's statehood initiatives. In September 2019, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser led rallies ahead of the House of Representatives hearing on statehood for the District of Columbia.

If the House approves the statehood initiative and the President signs the bill, the District of Columbia could become the 51st U.S. state.

While we now have the ability to fly to many destinations all over the U.S., we shouldn't take for granted the roads that can get us from here to there and give us the chance to have a big adventure at the same time. Overall, our highway infrastructure is quite impressive, no matter how infuriating your L.A. commute might be. So let's take a look at eight of the longest highways in the United States and see where they can take us.

U.S. 1 (2,593 Miles)

It seems fitting that we start with U.S. 1, but that's really just a coincidence. This highway is a part of the U.S. highway system which formed out of existing named roads. To create some order from the chaos, highways were numbered generally with odd routes going from north to south and even roads going from east to west. And while there are always exceptions to the rule, usually the numbers increase from east to west. So U.S. 1 is the highway that stretches from Fort Kent, Maine, to Key West, Florida. The road used to stop in Miami but made its way even farther south to Key West when they were able to repair the Overseas Highway in the 1930s.

U.S. 2 (2,643 Miles)

U.S. 2 goes from Houlton, Maine, to Everett, Washington. Road Trip USA dubs this route the Great Northern Road Trip. If you follow it, you're sure to see plenty of wide-open spaces and even take a journey through Canada. Notable stops along the way include Acadia National Park in Maine and the Big Nickel (which is precisely what it sounds like) in Canada. You can also see the Roadside Giants (larger than life, quirky statues) in North Dakota, and Glacier National Park in Montana. Now, if you are really trying to get from Maine to Washington, I-90 is the quicker route. But if you're looking for an epic road trip, U.S. 2 will do the trick.

I-80 (2,899.59 Miles)

Interstate 80 is a transcontinental roadway, stretching from San Francisco, California, to just a few miles west of the Hudson River in New Jersey. It travels through 11 states, and since it's an interstate, the speed limits are high. A notable feature of I-80 is the elevation of the highest pass. The highest point is in Wyoming between Laramie and Cheyenne at 8,640 feet. Because of the high elevation and treacherous Wyoming winds, the road is often closed during the winter, much to the chagrin of truckers and other travelers.

U.S. 50 (3,007 Miles)

Sometimes called "The Loneliest Road," U.S. 50 takes travelers from Sacramento, California, to Ocean City, Maryland. According to Road Trip USA, it passes through four state capitals as well as the nation's capital. And while the start of the highway takes you right through Silicon Valley, much of the road passes through small towns that still hold onto pieces of the past. It travels through three incredible mountain ranges — the Sierra Nevada, the Rocky Mountains, and the Appalachian Mountains. The "Loneliest Road" portion refers specifically the part of the highway passing through Nevada.

I-90 (3,020.44 Miles)

Interstate 90 is the longest interstate on our list. It clocks in at just over 3,000 miles and goes from Boston, Massachusetts, to Seattle, Washington. Fun fact — I-80 and I-90 combine for a bit between Indiana and Cleveland. Roadtrippers shares some highlights to hit along the way if you're planning a road trip. If you're on I-90 in New England and love roller coasters, you've got to go to Six Flags New England. This theme park dates back to 1870. But don't worry, they've updated all the rides since then. If you're a big superhero fan, you can stop at the birthplace of Superman in Cleveland. Visitors make the pilgrimage to the home where a teenage boy named Jerry Siegel first dreamed up the concept of this hero with superpowers.

U.S. 30 (3,073 Miles)

U.S. 30 spans from Astoria, Oregon, to Atlantic City, New Jersey. This highway is actually lucky to be alive since it has long stretches that are concurrent with other interstates or highways. It's quite confusing to follow since it merges and diverges from so many other roads. Some states have more prominent sections of U.S. 30, such as Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Ohio. In other states such as Nebraska, it simply runs parallel to I-80, making itself obsolete.

U.S. 6 (3,227 Miles)

Coming in as the second-longest highway in the nation, U.S. 6 takes drivers from Bishop, California, to Provincetown, Massachusetts. While this highway seems desolate, there are still many places to stop that are worth seeing. Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest in Sparks, Nevada, is a beautiful place that protects the beauty of canyons and mountains. In Denver, Colorado, stop for a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheater, a spectacular outdoor music venue. And later on in Cleveland, you can pay homage to all the great rockers at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

U.S. 20 (3,365 Miles)

And now for our longest highway — U.S. 20 at 3,3,65 miles. From Boston, Massachusetts, to Newport, Oregon, you can see the nation and stop at some great spots along the way. Insider suggests riding some roller coasters at Cedar Point in Ohio. You can also see the one-and-only Carhenge in Nebraska, which is a replication of Stonehenge made out of — you guessed it — cars. And if you take on an extensive road trip like this, you'll get to enjoy many unique and quirky national treasures that most people never get to see.

While the population of the United States continues to grow, some states are especially on the rise. According to the World Population Review, while the population increase in the U.S. between July 2017 and July 2018 was 0.6%, the growth in the two states with the highest growth was 2.1%. That adds up to a pretty massive leap in population.

Here are the 4 fastest-growing states in the U.S.

Arizona

Why Arizona? You may think of Arizona as home to snowbirds and cacti. But there are many reasons why Arizona is the fourth fastest-growing state in the country. Today, Arizona has over 7 million residents. But just 40 years ago, there were less than 2 million people who called Arizona home. So why are so many people flocking? Arizona has lots of job opportunities right now, which is a significant driving factor, according to AZ Big Media. Another reason is the excellent public transportation in Phoenix, the largest city in the state. Often people who live in a city with poor public transit look for a place with better transportation options when they move. And although the weather can be scorching hot in the summer — think 120 degrees Fahrenheit — there is warm weather, sunshine, and low humidity all year.

Utah

One thing bringing people to Utah, especially from California, is the lower cost of living and more affordable houses, according to California Movers. Also, schools are good in Utah, and residents generally feel safe. While there is some crime in Salt Lake City, the rest of the cities and towns can boast 80% less crime than the national average.

Aside from all of these number and stats, the landscape in Utah is beautiful. The Rocky Mountains cut through Utah, and the Great Salt Lake and the salt flats are fascinating sights to behold. Also, Utah has what many people consider to be a perfect climate. Utah has mild yet snowy winters so people can enjoy skiing and other winter sports in places like Park City. And the summers are warm, but not too hot or humid like other places around the country. And while not all of Utah is mountainous, nearly 80% of Utah residents live in Salt Lake City or the surrounding metropolitan areas, so most people are near the good stuff. It's Utah's growth rate of 1.64% that places it in third place on this list.

Idaho

Much of the migration to these four states comes from priced-out Californians. California is the most populous state in the nation. And yet with the cost of living beyond what many people can handle, more and more Californians are heading out and making new homes in places like Idaho. According to East Idaho News, the cost of living in Idaho is 7.8% lower than the national average. Not only that, Idaho has one of the lowest tax burdens in the nations — 29.6% below the national average. For a family coming from California or another pricey state, moving to Idaho means the chance to improve their quality of life quite a bit.

Much like Utah, the majority of Idahoans live in the urban area of Boise with much of the state still fairly remote and underpopulated. And believe it or not, a good chunk of Idaho is very much desert lands. But the parts that aren't are stunning, with vast mountain ranges and expansive wilderness. And for all of these reasons and more, Idaho's population rose 2.1% between July 2017 and July 2018. And the population over the last 30 years has nearly doubled, with an estimated 1,790,182 people living in Idaho currently.

Nevada

Nevada and Idaho tied for the largest percentage of growth at 2.1% growth from July 2017 to July 2018. But since Nevada has a larger population, with an estimated 3,087,025 people living there today, it claims the title of the state with the fastest growth.

What is causing people to move to the state of Nevada en masse? The biggies are low housing costs and lots of job opportunities, according to the Pahrump Valley Times. But another large chunk of people moving to Nevada, 29% to be exact, are making their way to the state for retirement. And who could blame them? Legal gambling, great weather, and ample opportunities to sit by the pool — sounds like an ideal retirement to us.

Two solstices occur every year, and this remarkable phenomenon has dramatic impacts on the regions of the world located at the northernmost and southernmost points. When the winter solstice occurs for the northern hemisphere in December of each year, several cities are plunged into ongoing darkness. Some locations are positioned in such a way that inhabitants (and visitors) will spend the entire winter without ever seeing a sunrise. Travelers who are interested in an extremely long night can visit these places to get their fill.

The Finnish Lapland

The northernmost part of Finland is sparsely populated and has fully embraced its winter wonderland reputation. Its official travel website even boasts that it is "the home of Santa Claus." The residents (approximate 180,000 of them) are outnumbered by the reindeer, and the area boasts many ski resorts to attract tourists to the chilly wilderness. It is also an excellent place to take in the northern lights, which are highly visible across the region. Some areas even have strict rules about turning out lights at night to make the spectacular aurora display even more stunning.

During the winter months, Lapland goes completely dark. Typically, the sun sets sometime in late November and will not rise again until the middle of January. This time is referred to as "polar night," and the residents who live there have to make extra effort to avoid Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) by taking Vitamin D supplements and making sure to stay social and active outdoors when it might be tempting to snuggle up for the night — the night that lasts up to 50 days.

Tromso, Norway

While many people are worried about seasonal blues in places that experience polar night, the city of Tromso, Norway, has remarkably high spirits during their long duration of darkness. The people of Tromso have seasonal depression rates that are much more in line with their sunnier counterparts who reside farther south.

Tromso is a tiny Norwegian island, and about 70,000 people call it home. It has some mainstay amenities like movie theaters and shopping malls, but it is also surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty in the form of mountains and fjords. While the town itself is relatively small, Tromso is known for its bustling and energetic festivals as well as a culture of mindfulness and reflection. Perhaps the latter is helped by the long stretches of darkness that promote quiet contemplation.

Tromso also leans heavily into its identity as a site of the polar night. Visitors can sign up for reindeer sledding, northern lights tours, and skiing. It may be dark outside but that doesn't stop people from taking advantage of the natural beauty the area has to offer. From hiking to snowshoeing to getting an up-close look at the native wildlife to taking walking ghost tours complete with folklore, there's plenty to do and see.

Utqiagvik, Alaska

The northernmost point of the United States is another location that experiences polar night. In Utqiagvik, Alaska, residents, and visitors will see days without any sun from late November through mid-January. This city is a little more difficult to visit than a lot of other polar night locations on the list. It is inaccessible by road because of its remote location, and it is called home by only 4,000 people. Many of these are Alaskan Natives known as the Inupiat community. They're joined by many scientists who find the tundra surrounding the city to be an excellent place to conduct their research.

In addition to the two months of darkness, Utqiagvik's spot "on top of the world," as it is nicknamed, also grants it a remarkable stretch of 80 days of sunshine during the summer months. While visitors will have to be brought in by plane, they may find themselves with some unusual transportation options once they're on the ground. Many of the residents traditionally got around using dog sleds. While the teams of hard-working pups are still in use, a lot of people have switched to the more modern version: snowmobiles.

Svalbard, Norway

Another Norwegian entry on the list announces on its welcome page that it has three seasons: Polar Summer, Northern Lights Winter, and Sunny Winter. If that all sounds a little icy, that's because Svalbard, Norway, is the northernmost year-round settlement on the entire planet. It has a tiny local population of only 2,200 people, but it is an excellent place to view the northern lights and has plenty of polar bears to see, which helps create a robust tourist industry to support cold-loving adventurers.

Svalbard is a group of islands, which means that it is surrounded by natural beauty as far as the eye can see. Like the other spots on the list, Svalbard sees the sun set in late November and will not see it return until mid-January. Since it's such a small and relatively isolated place, there is little light pollution to get in the way of taking in the brilliant views of the aurora borealis. Uniquely, Svalbard boasts the ability to view the celestial phenomenon around the clock.

Hammerfest, Norway

Another great tourist destination for those seeking the polar night is Hammerfest, Norway. This town is rich in history and has a legacy of resilience. It was devastated by a tremendous hurricane in 1856, ravaged by fire in 1890, and trampled by the Nazis in 1945. Despite these obstacles, Hammerfest has continued to be a thriving town perfect for outdoorsy adventures.

Like other places with polar night, a main draw for visitors is the chance to see the northern lights, and tourists will find plenty of opportunities to do so. The town also has hiking, beautiful views, and plenty of cozy accommodations for visitors who want to get a long, long night's sleep.

You know the famous European landmarks such as Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower, and the Coliseum. Yet, Europe has much more to offer and a wide array of hidden geographical features and facts. Here are seven geography facts that will change the way you look at Europe.

Europe Is Home to Six Microstates

When you think of the world's tiniest countries, the island nations of the Caribbean or the South Pacific might pop into your mind, but, in fact, six of the world's smallest countries, or microstates, are located in Europe. The world's smallest country is Vatican City, inside of Rome, which is home to the Roman Catholic Church and is ruled by the Pope. Italy is also home to the microstate of San Marino, the world's oldest constitutional republic and sovereign state. The other four European microstates include Monaco on the French Riviera, Andorra in the Pyrenees Mountains, Liechtenstein sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria, and the small archipelago of Malta, which lies in the Mediterranean.

Europe's Largest City Lies in Two Continents

Turkey's largest city and Europe's largest city, Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe from Asia. Figuratively and literally, Istanbul is where East meets West. Once part of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, the city's rich history is rooted in Christianity and Islam. The "old" city of Istanbul lies on a peninsula with seven hills that were the attraction for the Byzantine Emperor Constantine when he conquered Istanbul as "New Rome," and changed the name to Constantinople. Visitors to the city can travel across the Bosphorus between continents several ways including taking one of the many ferry crossings, driving or riding across one of the world's three largest suspension bridges, driving in a tunnel, or taking a passenger train through a tunnel.

The Mediterranean Sea Was Once a Desert

If you've spent any time on the shores of the Mediterranean, you might find it hard to believe the picturesque seascape you are looking at was once a desert. Scientists believe the sea dried up about five million years ago as a result of upward movement by the earth's crust. This movement caused the Straits of Gibraltar to act as a dam and seal off the Mediterranean from the Atlantic Ocean. This epoch is also referred to as "The Messinian Salinity Crisis." Before the sea was blocked off, saltwater from the Atlantic rushed into the sea and couldn't escape. When the water dried up, layers of salt created a mile high salt-wall and all the sea life died.

Europe Is Larger Than Australia

Maps distort our perception of the world, especially in terms of country and continent size, because it's difficult to project the circular globe onto a flat surface with any amount of accuracy. For example, the common Mercator map has been criticized for exaggerating the size of countries which are closer to the poles, while downplaying the size of countries and continents which are closer to the equator. When you look at the map, Australia appears quite large, making Europe the obvious candidate for the "Smallest Continent Award." To be fair, Australia is a large landmass that would qualify as the largest island in the world, if it wasn't a continent. Yet, Europe is larger than Australia by about 30 percent.

Greenland Is Not Its Own Country

The days of Spanish exploration, the Great British Empire, and European geographic colonization are gone, with many countries gaining fighting for independence from their motherland. Yet, some overseas territories still do exist, and Greenland is one of them. Technically, Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark, and also the world's largest island, three times the size of Texas, when you don't consider the continent of Australia. Greenland is known for its large ice sheet, expansive tundra, and native Inuit residents.

Europe Has a Rainforest

The thought of a rainforest conjures up images of stunning and endless flora and fauna found in the Amazon and other tropical locations; it's likely Europe doesn't cross your mind. If you travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina, however, you will find Perucica, a rainforest and one of two remaining old-growth forests in Europe. The forest lies within Sutjeska National Park and remains protected. Nicknamed "the Lungs of Europe," Perucica is home to more than 170 species of trees and bushes, including beech, fir, spruce, and mountain maple, as well as more than 1,000 species of herbaceous plants. Visitors especially enjoy the panoramic views from Vidikovac, a lookout point for Skakavac Waterfall, which falls 246 feet into a forest-covered valley.

Europe Is Home to the Second Most Active Volcano in the World

Mt. Etna, located in Sicily, is the second most active volcano in the world behind Hawaii's Kilauea volcano. Etna has regular volcanic ash eruptions but hasn't had a major eruption since the winter of 2008 and 2009. In 2013, Mt. Etna made the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Those who visit undoubtedly want to hike to the craters, which can be accessed from the north and south side of Mt. Etna with an experienced tour guide. When Etna's activity isn't high or causing earthquakes, adventure seekers can explore the volcano's ancient lava flows, caves, and active fumaroles as they hike along the sides of the volcano.

The United States boasts a unique past. One of the most iconic symbols of this past sits just offshore in New York Harbor. Whether it's her origins or pop culture significance, there's plenty to learn about the Statue of Liberty, everyone's favorite monument to freedom.

She Wasn't a Gift From the French Government

The Statue of Liberty is often touted as a gift from France to the United States. However, the French government contributed nothing to its construction. The idea for a monument to celebrate the friendship of the two nations was initially proposed in 1865 by French professor Edouard de Laboulaye.

In 1875, Laboulaye became the president of a new civic group called the Franco-American Union. This exploratory committee determined that the French citizenry would pay for the statue itself, while the Americans would pay for the base.

Fundraising began immediately, with France raising its share of the needed funds by 1880. In all, the French raised more than 2 million francs for the statue. The finished statue was exhibited in Paris in 1884, where a deed was signed to bequeath it to the people of the United States. Unfortunately, once the statue had been disassembled and shipped to New York Harbor, it was found that the Americans had yet to raise enough funds to build the pedestal.

Among others, newspaper magnate Joseph Pulitzer came to the rescue. He publicized the project, solicited donations, and increased his own paper's circulation in the process. About $250,000 was raised, and, on October 28, 1886, President Grover Cleveland presided at the inauguration of the finished statue and pedestal.

Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel — Yes, that Eiffel — Designed Her Spine

Even prior to the building of his namesake tower, Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel was already one of France's leading structural engineers in the 19th century. Thus, he was a natural choice for the Statue of Liberty project, especially after the statue's original designer unexpectedly died. Thanks to Eiffel, the statue's interior boasts a more contemporary design.

Eiffel came up with the idea of a central spine in the statue, which functions as a connector for the various asymmetrical metal girders that give the statue its shape. This innovative technique not only provides the framework for the statue but also creates a kind of suspension system that allows the monument to withstand winds and other harsh weather conditions.

Its Full Name Is 'The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World'

Though she's often known simply as Lady Liberty, the monument's official name is "The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World." Lady Liberty represents not only the countries of France and the United States but also the seven continents of the world. You can see this in the seven rays on her crown.

She's Based on a Roman Goddess

No one would have questioned the American commitment to independence in the 18th century; it was the reason for the Revolutionary War, after all.

The Romans also valued liberty. They went as far as to worship liberty as a deity. Their Goddess of Freedom was named Libertas, and she had her own temple in Rome as far back as 238 B.C.

Often shown as a woman in a flowing robe, this image of Libertas was the inspiration for the Statue of Liberty's design. The goddess was no stranger to the realm of American iconography. She's featured on the New York State flag as well.

An Important Date Is Inscribed on Her Tablet

Visitors to the statue's crown may be able to see "JULY IV MDCCLXXVI" inscribed on the tablet in her left hand. This date — July 4, 1776 — refers to the day the United States adopted the Declaration of Independence, a move that inspired our French neighbors and led to a winning coalition during the American struggle for independence.

While the date is the only item inscribed on the statue itself, there's an important plaque mounted inside the pedestal. This plaque contains the text of the poem "New Colossus" by Emma Lazarus. The iconic lines — especially "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free" — have become widely associated with the Statue of Liberty's invitation to immigrants from all over the world.

She Received a Face-Lift for Her Centennial Anniversary Celebration

For the 100th anniversary of the statue in 1986, Lady Liberty received much-needed renovations to transform her look. About $87 million dollars was raised for the effort. It was, in fact, the most successful public-private fundraising partnership in American history. Construction began in 1984. Workers repaired vulnerabilities in the statue's entire framework and replaced its rusting armature bars with stainless steel ones.

The statue's torch received the most pronounced face-lift. It was completely replaced by a 24-karat gold-plated replica in 1985. The original, which was made of copper and weighs 3,600 pounds, is now on display in the Statue of Liberty Museum on Liberty Island.

Feature image credit: AcidTestPhoto/ iStock

South America is becoming a popular destination for tourists. According to BBVA, nearly one hundred million tourists made their way to Latin America in 2015, and the numbers continue to rise. So where are all those tourists headed? MasterCard reports that the most popular destination in South America is Buenos Aires, Argentina. But there are plenty of other incredible places to visit in South America. Here are four underrated locations that need to go on your travel wish list.

Valparaiso, Chile

Chile sits along the western edge of the continent, squeezed between the Andes mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Chile is one of the more popular destination countries in South America. National Geographic even named it one of the best places to visit in 2018. Part of the appeal of the country lies within its natural beauty, with deserts, glaciers, forests, and volcanoes all available within its borders, according to the country's official travel site. The people of Chile are very welcoming to visitors, too, making even inexperienced travelers feel at home there.

Most visitors to Chile will spend their time in Santiago, the bustling capital city. But more adventurous and artistic travelers should head for Valparaiso. This city sits to the west of Santiago along the Pacific shoreline and is nicknamed the City of Artists, according to Intrepid Travel. The city has a thriving street art scene, with daily tours that will take you to all the great highlights. It's also home to the famous poet Pablo Neruda. According to Lonely Planet, the artist drew much of the inspiration for his romantic words from the city itself. The city is also home to major festivals throughout the year when the streets fill with revelers. But even if you aren't there for festival season, you'll be able to spend hours wandering the cobblestone streets and soaking up the charm of the area.

Fortaleza, Brazil

Brazil is the biggest country in South America and the fifth-largest in the world, so visitors to the country will have a lot of ground to cover. Many choose to spend their time in the popular cities of Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo, both vibrant areas with an active nightlife. Those seeking nature are more likely to seek out tours to Iguazu Falls or the Amazon rainforest.

If you want to experience authentic Brazil while getting away from the more tourist-clogged destinations, head north to Fortaleza. This major city sits along the Atlantic coast and has long been a tourism destination for Brazilians. It's only been recently discovered by international visitors. You can credit the 2014 World Cup for that, according to The Guardian, when Fortaleza was a host city for the games. Beaches are one of the main attractions of the city, and they don't disappoint. Not only are the beaches clean and gorgeous, but they also have plenty of amenities such as shady seaside bars. That's where you can get drinks and food throughout the day and long into the night. And the nightlight in Fortaleza is second only to its beaches. The city has an incredible party atmosphere, so it's a great place to go when you are ready to let loose.

Asuncion, Paraguay

Asuncion sits in the southern half of the landlocked country of Paraguay, very near the border of Argentina. Paraguay is one of the most overlooked countries in South America, due in part to its international reputation. It hasn't always been the safest country for travelers, and indeed you'll want to be aware as you make your way through the country. But this shouldn't put you off. Practicing some street smarts will keep you safe and allow you to see one of the most authentic areas of the continent. And you won't get more authentic than Asuncion.

The capital city of Asuncion dates back to 1537 and still retains many traces of its colonial history. The downtown area is a vibrant mix of the old and new, with plenty of modern amenities as well as street vendors selling ancient herbal remedies. The downtown area is compact, too, so you can see most of the historical sites on foot (saving money for all that authentic Latin American food). One of the can't-miss sites is the Casa de la Independencia. It's where revolutionaries plotted Paraguay's independence from Spain in 1811. The on-site museum not only provides a good dose of history but also gives you a deeper understanding of the people of Paraguay.

Sucre, Bolivia

Bolivia is only one of two landlocked countries in South America. Because of that, it's often overlooked by tourists who are eager to experience the incredible beaches offered by countries like Chile and Argentina. Savvy travelers know not to overlook Bolivia, though. The country stretches from the Andes to the Amazon, giving travelers plenty of incredible landscapes to take in. Bolivia retains a lot of the old-world charm and culture, too. That makes it feel like you've stepped back in time, especially when compared to the more modernized countries that lie around it.

Sucre is one of the most beautiful cities in Bolivia. It's nicknamed the White City thanks to the whitewashed buildings that make up the city center. The easy-going charm of the city makes it the perfect place to visit if you want to settle down and immerse yourself in Latin American culture for a while. It's not unusual for travelers in the area to stay for a couple weeks or more. They often end up taking Spanish lessons at one of the city's many schools. And while you are there, you'll be within easy access of Bolivia's most famous tourist destination, Salar de Uyuni. These salt flats are stunning any time of the year, but in the rainy season, the moisture left behind creates a mirrored surface on the flat vista.

There is some dispute over which city in the United States can claim the nickname of the City of Bridges. Portland, Oregon, claims the name in honor of the 12 bridges in the city limits that span the Willamette River, according to Open Oregon. While Portland's bridges are well-traveled, those 12 bridges pale in comparison with fellow contender Pittsburgh. The Pennsylvania city disputes Portland's claim to be the City of Bridges. They want the nickname for themselves, according to WBUR, because of the 446 bridges crisscrossing the Pittsburgh city limits. But are 446 bridges enough to earn them the claim to fame of having the most bridges in the world? Check out the five cities in the world with the most bridges.

Venice, Italy

Number of Bridges: 391

According to Venezia Autentica, there are an incredible 391 bridges in the city of Venice. It's no wonder Venetians need all those bridges. They'll need them to cross the more than 150 canals within city limits. Bridges in Venice were originally built from wood and laid flat across the canals, making it easy for horses and carts to traverse the city. But when residents found that boats were a more efficient means of transporting goods in the watery city, it changed the way they built bridges. Builders altered bridge designs to include an archway to allow boats to pass underneath.

The most famous bridge in Venice is the Rialto Bridge. According to Best Venice Guides, the bridge was incredibly expensive to build. But determined wealthy merchants of the time wanted to create a stand-out piece of architecture. It's been one of the hallmarks of the Grand Canal for more than 400 years since it was completed in 1591.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA

Number of Bridges: 446

Pittsburgh might want to claim that it has the most bridges in the world, but it only comes in at number four on our list. Still, according to the BBC, it has an impressive 446 bridges. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation spends more than $150 million each year keeping all those bridges in good condition. It's no surprise that steel makes up those bridges, either, as Pittsburgh is often called "Steel City." The name doesn't come from the bridges, though. Rather, it's due to the area's history with the steel industry. That's also why they named the local football team the Steelers.

According to Visit Pittsburgh, the most recognizable bridges in the city are the Three Sisters. Said to be the only trio of identical bridges in the United States, this set of bridges crosses the Allegheny River, connecting the two halves of the city.

New York City, New York, USA

Number of Bridges: 789

The New York City Department of Transportation says they manage 789 bridges within the city. The actual number of bridges in NYC could be higher, though. There are many bridges in the city that aren't under the department's control. But 789 bridges is still an impressive number. Possibly the most famous bridge in the city is the Brooklyn Bridge. The bridge opened in 1883, according to History.com, and cost more than $320 million to build (in today's dollars).

While crossing the Brooklyn Bridge is a rite of passage for most visitors to the city, it isn't the busiest bridge in the city. That honor goes to the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge, according to the NYC Department of Transportation. Also known as the 59th Street Bridge, it spans the East River and carries more than 170,000 vehicles each day. The bridge originally opened in 1909 and was renamed in honor of former mayor Ed Koch in 2010. Whether you call it the Queensboro Bridge, the 59th Street Bridge, or the Ed Koch Bridge, it's an impressive cantilevered bridge that's served the city for more than one hundred years.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Number of Bridges: 1281

Venice isn't the only city with an impressive network of canals and bridges. The Venice of the North, Amsterdam, surpasses it in number of bridges. According to Amsterdam for Visitors, the city has 165 canals and an amazing 1281 bridges. That network developed because Amsterdam sits on what was originally swampland. As people moved into the city, they drained sections of the swamp to create dry land on which to build. The canals surrounded the new areas, allowing the residents to get around via small boats. They were also handy for defensive reasons, making it harder to attack the city.

There are a lot of beautiful bridges in Amsterdam, and the pedestrian-friendly city makes it easy to get around to see them all. Hopping on one of the canal tours may be the best way to see the bridges, though, as you can glide under them while a guide tells you about the history. If you are lucky, you'll see a few of the most famous bridges, including the Torensluis Bridge. According to I Am Amsterdam, this bridge was built in 1648, making it the oldest bridge still standing in the city.

Hamburg, Germany

Number of Bridges: More than 2300

Hamburg takes the number one spot on this list. The Telegraph reports that the German city has more than 2300 bridges. The bridges of both cities were born from a similar issue: too much water. Practically surrounded by water, Hamburg sits at a marshy fork in the Elbe. It's thanks to that location that Hamburg is the second busiest port in Europe, according to Amusing Planet. Large container ships come in and out of the city every day. So while all that water helped to build a strong economy in Hamburg, it also meant those bridge builders had to get busy creating ways for vehicles and pedestrians to get around. And get busy they did, as the city has more bridges than all the other cities on our list combined.

Not only is the number impressive, but the architecture of the bridges themselves is pretty incredible, too. One of the most famous bridges in Hamburg is the Kolbrand Bridge, which was completed in 1974. The bridge carries more than 38,000 vehicles each day, according to Hamburg Port Authority. The bridge was never intended to handle that much traffic, though. So if you want to see this beautiful bridge, you'll want to book your tickets to Hamburg soon. Authorities are in talks to start replacing the bridge in the next few years.

According to the United States Geological Survey, the largest earthquake ever recorded in the United States happened in Prince William Sound in Alaska in 1964. That earthquake measured at the incredible magnitude of 9.2 on the Richter scale. And while earthquakes aren't unusual for the area, they are usually much less severe. Prince William Sound experiences far fewer earthquakes than a lot of other cities around the world. Some areas in the Pacific measure seismic activity on an almost daily basis thanks to the Ring of Fire. The plate is in almost constant motion, according to CNN, and is home to several volcanoes as well.

But earthquakes aren't exclusive to the Ring of Fire. They happen all over the world every day. Here are the seven cities where you are most likely to experience an earthquake.

Quito, Ecuador

According to Earthquake Track, Quito has experienced 15 earthquakes with a magnitude of 1.5 or greater in the last year. And while the majority of those are too slight for most residents to feel, the city is no stranger to major earthquakes. Those earthquakes register 7.0 or more on the Richter scale. According to Reuters, a 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck the Peru–Ecuador border, shaking residents in the capital city of Quito. Earthquakes of a similar magnitude killed one person in 2018 and more than 700 in 2016.

Lima, Peru

Earthquake Track reports 14 earthquakes in Lima in the last year, with Volcano Discovery reporting more than 340 for the country as a whole. That's in line with what Ecuador experiences each year. What's interesting about Lima's earthquake history is just how far back it goes. There are records of earthquakes going back to the 16th century. According to Lima Easy, major earthquakes in 1533 and 1555 rocked the capital city. Trip Savvy reports there is a major earthquake in the region about once every six years.

Manila, Philippines

The Philippines experiences frequent seismic activity because of its location. That's because the country, and its capital Manila, sits on top of multiple shifting tectonic plates converging in the Pacific Ocean. ABS CBN news network reports that 20 earthquakes each day is an average for the area. While the majority of these earthquakes are not felt on the surface, Manila experiences stronger earthquakes with disturbing frequency. In April of 2019, Manila experienced an earthquake with a magnitude of 6.1 during Monday's rush hour.

Istanbul, Turkey

The Hurriyet Daily News reports that the Kandilli Observatory in Istanbul records about 10,000 earthquakes in Turkey every year. The capital city of Istanbul sits near the North Anatolian Fault. Three major universities are warning that things could get worse, according to newspaper Daily Sabah. In a joint-issued study, researchers warn that the city should prepare for a series of earthquakes. They predict three earthquakes measuring higher than 7.0 on the Richter Scale could strike in the near future.

Los Angeles, California, USA

According to the United States Geological Survey, Southern California experiences about 10,000 earthquakes each year. Los Angeles sits in the middle of a lot of the action. Of all those quakes, though, only about 15 measure at 4.0 or greater on the Richter scale. Earthquakes above the 4.0 mark are usually strong enough that the city's several million residents feel the tremors. The cause of all these earthquakes lies with the San Andreas fault, according to the Southern California Earthquake Center. This is where the Pacific and North American plates of the earth push together. That friction produces thousands of small earthquakes each year.

Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta is another city with an unfortunate position on the Ring of Fire. The Straits Times reported that Indonesia experienced more than 11,500 earthquakes in 2018, and those numbers appear to be growing. Previous years averaged around 6,000 earthquakes. While no one can account for the increase in activity, Jakarta is doing its part to get prepared. According to the Jakarta Post, the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency presented a paper on how vulnerable the city is to a massive earthquake and how to mitigate the potential damage. There are over 800 high-rise buildings in the city that would be vulnerable in the event of a major earthquake. Measures are being taken to prepare both the citizens and the infrastructure for the next big quake.

Tokyo, Japan

According to the Meteorological Agency of Japan, about one in ten earthquakes measured in the world happen in Japan. The country can experience thousands of earthquakes every year, though most of them are too small in magnitude to feel on the surface. The reason the country experiences so many earthquakes is thanks to its direct position over the Ring of Fire, where the tectonic plates below the country are in almost constant motion.

Tokyo has a long history of suffering from earthquake-related damages. The good news is that most households and businesses are prepared for an earthquake to strike. Not only are buildings constructed to withstand the swaying motion of the earth, but most have an earthquake kit on hand. The kits contain enough food, water, and medical supplies to last for several days.

An offshoot of the 20th-century modernist movement, Brutalism is known for its hard-edged, geometric, and industrial style construction. While the name often refers to its harsh and utilitarian aesthetic, Brutalism actually originates from the French term "beton brut," which means "raw concrete." If you'd like some examples of Brutalist architecture, here are five of the style's most famous buildings on earth. Best of all, you get to add five more cities to your list of favorite destinations.

Habitat 67 (Montreal, Canada)

An ultimately failed attempt at overhauling urban living, Habitat 67 is nonetheless a style icon of the 1960s and a unique example of Brutalist architecture. The building debuted at the 1967 World's Fair as Moshe Safdie's graduate thesis project. At the time, Safdie was an Israeli–Canadian student at McGill University. Due to the attention garnered by his Habitat 67 project,  Safdie would go on to become an internationally renowned architect and urban designer.

With a modular design way ahead of its time, Habitat 67 consisted of 354 concrete "boxes" stacked atop each other in a rather abstract configuration. Each apartment — made up of one to four boxed units — had its own outdoor space, often on the roof of another unit.

The unusual architectural framework was heralded as a solution to the housing crisis in high-population, urban environments. Safdie utilized prefabrication techniques to construct the basic modules, which were then lifted to their proper places and connected by steel cables. Due to the high cost of construction and water seepage in the concrete walls, Habitat 67 was considered an architectural failure. However, it inspired future housing innovations, such as garden suburbs, that have since emerged as pragmatic solutions for urban sprawl.

Genex Tower (Belgrade, Serbia)

Officially known as the Western City Gate, Genex Tower comprises a pair of skyscrapers connected at the top by a two-story footbridge. The shorter of the two towers (at 26 stories high) is a commercial building occupied by the offices of the Genex Group, from which the structure got its nickname. Meanwhile, the taller tower (at 30 stories high) has been reserved for residential use. A rotunda atop the service shaft of the shorter tower once hosted a revolving restaurant.

Built in 1977, the Genex Tower is Serbia's second tallest building. Despite the adverts and colorful banners adorning the sides of the towers, the concrete exterior still preserves the original Brutalist aesthetic traditions. The Eastern City Gate — a trio of residential buildings on the opposite side of the city — was also done in the Brutalist style. Together, the two "gates" lend the city a distinctively utilitarian and modernist charm.

Wotruba Church (Vienna, Austria)

A far cry from most European cathedrals with their Gothic spires or Baroque arches, Wotruba Church is made from 152 disparate concrete blocks assembled in a haphazardly pile.

Bizarre Brutalist connotations aside, this Stonehenge-like sanctuary is no less ecclesiastic than its more traditional cousins. Even today, it continues to serve as a gathering place for weekly Catholic masses.

Built on the site of a former Nazi barracks, the church was commissioned as both a religious and artistic endeavor during a period of declining religiosity in Europe. Today, it sits on a hillside with a gorgeous panoramic view of Vienna. The church is named for its designer Fritz Wotruba, although the sculptor died a year before the building was completed in 1976. Fellow architect Fritz G. Mayr presided over the building project after Wotruba's untimely death.

Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban (Dhaka, Bangladesh)

Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban is a symbol of democracy in a region with a tumultuous, tortured past. This architectural wonder was initially intended as a legislative building for East and West Pakistan.

However, it was appropriated as Bangladesh's National Parliament House and the headquarters of the Bangladesh National Assembly in 1982. Curious as to why? Prior to 1971, conflict raged unabated between East and West Pakistan.

On December 16 of the same year, East Pakistan seceded from Pakistan to form the new country of Bangladesh. Pakistan (formerly West Pakistan) reluctantly recognized Bangladesh as a sovereign nation in 1974. The new Bangladeshi government lost no time in commissioning Louis Khan, the famed Modernist American architect, to create one of the most iconic buildings in Bangladeshi history.

To honor the local culture, Louis Khan used local materials and shapes abstracted from Bengali culture.

Construction of the building was completed in 1982. The final framework consists of eight halls placed concentrically around a major parliamentary chamber, which acts as a hub from which all the auxiliary offices extend. Both the hub and halls are constructed from concrete and inlaid marble; an artificial lake surrounds the entire complex. In addition to being the home of the Bangladeshi legislature, the building is also a major tourist attraction today.

Geisel Library (San Diego, California, United States)

Named for Dr. Seuss, the beloved children's author, the Geisel Library at the University of California is one of the most prominent pieces of Brutalist architecture in the United States. Its construction was completed in early 1970. Unlike the other buildings on this list, the library combines the concrete structures typical of the Brutalist style with the retro-futuristic look of plate glass.

The library was commissioned in 1965 and designed by architect William Pereira to honor Theodor (Dr. Seuss) and Audrey Geisel for their distinctive contributions to literacy in America. It's situated at the peak of a canyon in the center of the San Diego campus.

During the design phase, Pereira concluded that the library should be shaped like a sphere in the characteristically hard-edged style of the Brutalist tradition. Accordingly, such a shape would facilitate circulation and maximize the amount of incoming daylight into the building. The ultimate structure preserves this intent, with floors that taper off above and below the widest central layer located on the sixth floor.

Meanwhile, the building's core contains the elevators and stairs. All of the tapered floors are supported by sixteen concrete piers, creating a unique structure as enigmatic as the author for whom the building was named.

Fall is a time of transition. This is when you get to enjoy the changing colors, shop pre-winter sales, and order new lattes from the Starbucks menu. Want to try something new? Get the most out of the season by visiting the cities with the best autumn weather in the country.

Kansas City, Missouri

This city boasts a fall season that mimics an Indian summer. Visitors to Kansas City will be treated to mild days of sunshine and slightly cool evenings throughout September and most of October. During these months, you'll see scant cloud cover, which means you can look forward to sunny days with little probability of rain.

Fall weather temperatures in Kansas City range from 47 degrees Fahrenheit to a high of 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

As a thriving Midwest metropolis, Kansas City is a vibrant place in the fall. You can enjoy a number of harvest-related events here, from pumpkin festivals to pumpkin farm corn mazes. They are perfect for embracing the nation's rural heartland in all its festive, seasonal glory.

Meanwhile, sports fans can catch an NFL game at the Arrowhead Stadium, and history buffs can enjoy themed stage performances at the Kansas City Renaissance Festival. Be sure to take advantage of Kansas City's mild fall temperatures to enjoy a variety of activities.

Asheville, North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Mountains, with more than 100 species of deciduous trees, offers one of the most breathtaking displays of fall colors in the country. The city of Asheville is the perfect place to take advantage of these views due to its location near Pisgah National Forest. In fact, you can view the fall colors at all four of North Carolina's national forests. The other three forests are Croatan, Nantahala, and Uwharrie.

With an average temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit in October, you'll have the perfect weather to take advantage of all this outdoor beauty. The colors tend to begin in the higher elevations in late September and gradually make their way down the mountainside as the temperatures cool. So, no matter when you visit during the season, you'll get to enjoy the gorgeous hues of autumn anywhere in the state.

Whether you prefer to explore the outdoors on a hike or are content to view the colors through your car windows on a drive through the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville is the perfect home base for your fall adventures.

Lake Tahoe, Nevada

With temperatures dropping from the mid-70s in September to the low 60s by the end of October, fall in Lake Tahoe is filled with great promise. The summer tourists have gone home, the winter sportsmen have yet to arrive, and the lake is surrounded by vibrant fall colors.

Rain is also minimal in the fall, though by November, snowfall can be a possibility at some of the higher elevations in the area.

The lake — which sits on the Nevada–California border — is known as a nature lover's paradise and is home to a variety of small towns on its perimeter, from Incline Village on its northern side to South Lake Tahoe on its southern side. You can explore the local scenery in all its autumn glory at any one of these small towns. Be sure to take advantage of the mild, clear days before the winter chill sets in.

Portland, Maine

New England is known for its stunning fall foliage, and one of our favorite spots to catch it is in Portland, Maine. The fall colors peak in mid-to-late October, so you'll want to get there in time for it.

In addition to the natural beauty, autumn in Portland brings an abundance of seasonal events like Harvest on the Harbor, which features cooking demonstrations, Maine cuisine, wine tastings, and live entertainment. The city's prime location on the Atlantic coast also makes it a seafood mecca. You'll love the array of seafood dishes available in Portland restaurants. Be sure to take advantage of the mild fall temperatures to take in a few lighthouse tours and whale watching excursions.

San Diego, California

If you want to hang on to summer as long as possible, you'll want to visit San Diego in the fall. September and October temperatures will be in the mid-70s with a low probability of rainfall — in a city where there's already minimal precipitation. Even better, the summer crowds will have thinned out in the fall: this means better deals for you in terms of hotel and travel accommodations.

Some of the highlights of fall include the famed Carlsbad Fall Village Faire, Coronado Island Film Festival, and San Diego Beer Week. The latter is a popular festival featuring delicious brews from many of the local breweries in the city. Of course, the San Diego Zoo is a great choice any time of year, but it's even more enjoyable in the fall because you won't have to contend with large crowds or the summer heat.

Nashville, Tennessee

The legendary Music City is another favorite destination for fall. You won't have the humidity of the summer months to contend with, and temperatures will be in the 70s. Best of all, September and October have the lowest precipitation levels in the year.

Thanks to the milder weather, fall in Nashville is known as Festival Season, and it lives up to its name with themed events for music, flowers, food, and the visual arts. Not only do the events reflect the culture of the city, but they're also a great reason to explore various landmarks, such as President Andrew Jackson's Hermitage.

This presidential home is one of the most-visited in the country and also one of Nashville's most popular attractions.

Of course, you don't have to give up any of the traditional fall sights, either, as the hills of Tennessee become a rolling rainbow of colors when the leaves change.

Aspen, Colorado

While Aspen is known for its winter skiing — and summer activities — autumn is its most beautiful season, thanks to its namesake trees. The Rocky Mountains are covered in groves of Aspen trees that turn a stunning golden yellow in autumn. Combine those with the rest of Aspen's mountainous beauty and a charming downtown area, and you have one of the best towns in the country in which to watch the seasons turn.

The temperature begins falling from its summer highs in September; October temperatures are generally in the 60s. You'll enjoy brisk mornings and mild days, the hallmarks of the fall season in Aspen. While hiking is one of the most popular pastimes here, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the fall colors, as well. You can cycle, drive, or kayak down the Colorado River to enjoy nature's splendors.

Due to its remoteness and harsh environment, Alaska has long been known as the “last frontier.” Braving tough conditions was worth it to the fishermen, frontiersmen, loggers and miners eager to profit from the state’s natural bounty. Long after those excursions, there remains plenty of room to explore: Alaska is the largest U.S. state, equal in land area to about one-fifth that of the entire 48 contiguous states combined. The former Territory of Alaska gained statehood in 1959, making it the 49th state. Amidst its natural grandeur of forests, tundra, mountains and glaciers, Alaska’s largest centers of population include the capital, Juneau, as well as Anchorage and Fairbanks.  Finding some of Alaska’s most unique wonders requires trekking to more remote climes.

See Alpenglow at Midnight

Alaska’s extreme northern latitude means that the sun doesn't fully set for months on end, which is where it picked up the nickname “Land of the Midnight Sun.” As such, the optical phenomenon known as "alpenglow" — which is perceived by the human eye as a soft, shimmering glow off of mountainsides around sunset or before sunrise — occurs during a sizable portion of the year. The condition can only truly happen after the sun is over the horizon, meaning no direct sunlight reaches the colored cliffs. Alpenglow is reflected sunlight bouncing off of precipitation, ice crystals and airborne particulates back up onto the mountains above the horizon. With the sun setting well after midnight throughout the summer in a land full of stunning mountain scenery, Alaska is prime territory to take in one of nature’s free light shows.

Picnic in the Shadow of Denali

Denali National Park and Preserve is six million acres of wild land in northern Alaska accessible by a single road though one park entrance. The 92-mile Denali Park Road is open to the public mid-May through mid-September, but only on the first 15 miles to Savage River. Beyond that, park-goers board buses for narrated tours to explore further. There are hiking trails near the road, mostly close to the park entrance, as much of the massive park is an actual animal preserve and off limits to tourism. The highlight of the park is its namesake mountain, known to indigenous people as Denali. Renamed after an American president from 1917 to 2015 before reverting to its original moniker, the snow-draped is the tallest peak in North America at 20,310 feet. While the National Park Service offers only campground accommodations within the park, area lodges on privately owned land within or near the park offer a great base camp for those who don’t want to totally rough it. They include Camp Denali & North Face Lodge, Kantishna Roadhouse, Denali Backcountry Lodge and Skyline Lodge.

Follow in the Steps of Klondike Gold Miners

Commemorating the gold strikes and hard times alike, the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is operated by the National Park Service in Skagway, in southwest Alaska. A popular tourist spot for cruise travelers who dock in the historic town, more than 20 of its boomtown buildings are part of the park experience. The rustic structures give the feel of a time when miners and ladies of the night would have mingled at saloons in the late 1890s. Nearby, actually walk where miners and their mules trod the famous Chilkoot Trail. Hikes through the rugged terrain hint at what early explorers endured — and how the trail got its nickname of the "meanest 33 miles in history." Another nearby attraction is rail excursions on the White Pass and Yukon Route, a Canadian and U.S. narrow-gauge railroad linking the port of Skagway with Whitehorse, the capital of Yukon, Canada. The line’s White Pass Summit Excursion provides a scenic, 40-mile round trip from Skagway up to the summit of White Pass at nearly 3,000 feet.

It probably goes without saying that some countries are wealthier than others, but we said it anyway. And since we said it, we might as well rank them. In finding these numbers, we used Gross National Income (GNI) as our main metric. Put simply, a country’s GNI is the number you get when you combine a country’s Gross Domestic Product and its international income. It’s a more reliable way to evaluate how much money a country is taking in.

We should also note we used the World Bank’s 2017 GNI figures, the most complete and reliable determination we could find.

Canada

$1.6 Trillion

At the risk of playing into the hands of a stereotype, we like to think Canada’s economic success is due to the general friendliness of its people. Of course people want to deal with Canada because Canadians are easy to deal with. There’s also a possibility that Canada’s economy is going to take a turn for the worse in 2019, though the factors influencing that seem to be similar to what’s affecting the international middle class, so we don’t know how much of that is actually Canada’s fault. Still, they’re in the top ten and will probably stay there.

Brazil

$1.8 Trillion

Brazil is a bit of a weird inclusion here in that the Brazilian economy isn’t exactly enviable. This past year, 2018, was the first year the country’s experienced any sort of growth since 2014, and even 2018’s growth was only one percent. That stagnation could be because the citizens overpay for goods and services, the amount of time it takes companies to prepare Brazilian taxes, seriously large interest payments and a whole host of other obstacles. But here it is at number nine anyway.

Italy

$1.9 Trillion

Italy’s another unenviable economy, despite its inclusion on this list. There’s a number of individual reasons as to why Italy’s economy has been slow to grow, with the country facing low worker productivity, an unfriendly business environment, a lack of innovation, high debt and a handful of other factors. But, like we said with Brazil, here it is anyway.

India

$2.4 Trillion

India’s economic growth may be slowing, but the country’s achievements can’t be downplayed. In less than a hundred years, it went from a huge British colony to one of the wealthiest nations in the world. That’s quite an accomplishment, and while it’s not the only former British colony on the list, it’s definitely climbing faster than the other one did. In projections looking ahead to 2050, India’s expected to be the world’s second largest economy, only behind China.

France

$2.6 Trillion

We don’t mean this as an insult to the French people, but France generally isn’t a country you think of as an economic powerhouse. Obviously they have been in the past, with Napoleon trampling all over Europe and the French army performing superhuman acts of defense in the First World War. But apparently modern France is no slouch, and is even predicted to overtake the U.K. in 2019. Whether or not they can hold onto that spot is up in the air, especially considering the unrest the country’s seen recently (and the reasons for it), but we wouldn’t count them out.

United Kingdom

$2.7 Trillion

The United Kingdom’s been a sizable world power for an exceptionally long time, and wealth follows that kind of dominance. The nation’s modern economy was defined by low inflation and a healthy (if slightly insane) housing market, two indicators of sustained foundational health. They’ve been taking some hits with Brexit and it remains to be seen if they can truly pull out of the EU and maintain the kind of economic success they’ve become accustomed to, but all we can do there is wait and see.

Germany

$3.6 Trillion

Germany’s gotten credit for saving the EU on at least one occasion, so it makes sense that they’d be the wealthiest country in the union. And not by a small amount either. Their closest competition is the U.K., who’s nearly a trillion dollars behind them. Brexit is also minimizing the U.K.’s chances of closing that gap. If they can get their population crisis under control, Germany’s position as the wealthiest nation in the EU seems safe.

Japan

$4.9 Trillion

Japan’s made good use of external markets in recent years and experienced strong growth, with very light inflation and improved conditions for the Japanese labor force. Basically everything stayed good or got better for everyone involved. Things are likely to slow for them in the next few years as the country comes up against an aging and declining population which threatens their economy’s long term viability, but they’re coming up against the problem with a good foundation.

China

$12 Trillion

There’s a huge jump of seven trillion dollars between the second and third entry on this list (then an equally large one from the second to the first), which is an unfathomable amount of money. But unfathomable amounts of money are what it takes to succeed on the world stage, which modern China is definitely doing, and a rate that some are predicting it will be the wealthiest nation in the world by the early 2030s (though it may not hold the spot for long). That’s not so far-fetched either, considering it’s been the world’s largest economy for three years straight.

United States

$19 Trillion

We all knew where this list was going to end and not out of an overwhelming feeling of blind nationalism. The United States is currently the world’s largest economy and has its hands in virtually every industry practiced by modern man. It has the resources of almost an entire continent, emerged as a superpower following an enormous conflict, and has experienced almost 80 years of improvements in living standards. You can debate the ethics and morality of how it was all achieved and sustained, but the fact is the United States is the wealthiest nation on Earth.