America is often called a “melting pot” because it has absorbed several aspects from cultures worldwide and blended them into its own. This cultural exchange has shaped American life in everything from food and fashion to traditions and wellness practices. You will be surprised to know that some of your favorite foods and traditions didn’t originate from the land of America.
Read on to learn 14 things America adopted from other cultures.
Halloween
Halloween has its roots in Samhain, an ancient Celtic festival that marks the beginning of winter. The early Irish and Scottish settlers brought this tradition to America in the 19th century. Over time, it evolved into a holiday filled with costumes, candy, and community events, on which Americans spend billions every year. Trick-or-treating and haunted houses are now deeply embedded in American culture.
Yoga
Yoga, a physical, mental, and spiritual discipline, originated in ancient India over 5,000 years ago. It was brought to the US in the late 19th century and has become a widespread wellness practice. In 2023, 33.64 million Americans practiced yoga, as per Statista. Yoga studios have mushroomed in nearly every city, and various forms of yoga are included in fitness programs.
Theater
Theater originated in ancient Greece, where it was an integral part of religious festivals. It later spread across Europe during the Renaissance, especially in England, France, and Italy. Greek tragedies and comedies influenced the development of Western drama, which evolved into the sophisticated theater traditions of these nations. The European theater greatly influenced the thriving theater culture in America today, especially on Broadway. Broadway productions grossed $1.5 billion in 2023-2024, according to Statista.
Chopsticks
Chopsticks, a traditional East Asian utensil, have become commonplace in America. With the growing popularity of Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese cuisine, chopsticks have been widely adopted. Many Americans now feel comfortable using chopsticks in both restaurants and at home. They are available in most grocery stores, especially in areas with large Asian populations.
Coffee Drinking
Coffee originated in Ethiopia and spread to the Middle East through Sufi saints before becoming a global beverage. It arrived in America in the 17th century, and by the 18th century, coffeehouses were popping up across the colonies. Today, coffee is a staple of American daily life, with 73% of Americans drinking it daily and 36% drinking 3 to 5 cups per day.
Meditation
Meditation, rooted in ancient Eastern traditions, has become an essential practice for mental health in the US. Originally linked to Hinduism and Buddhism, meditation has spread across religious and secular boundaries. As per the National Health Interview Survey by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), the percentage of American adults practicing meditation has doubled between 2002 and 2022 from 7.5% to 17.3%. Meditation apps and retreats are becoming increasingly popular across the country.
Feng Shui
Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese practice that emphasizes the flow of energy, or “chi.” It gained popularity in the US during the late 20th century, particularly in interior design. Many Americans use Feng Shui principles of promoting balance and harmony when organizing their homes or offices to usher well-being and success.
Chai Latte
Masala chai, a milky tea flavored with spices including ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper, is India’s traditional beverage. Chai has gained popularity in the US as an alternative to coffee or tea. Introduced by Starbucks in the 1990s, the chai latte, a sweetened version with milk, can be found on the beverage menus of most coffee shops across the US.
Denim
Denim, the fabric used to make jeans, originated in the French town of Nîmes, hence the name “de Nîmes,” which literally translates to “from Nimes.” It was first used in America in the 19th century as a durable work clothes for miners and cowboys. Levi Strauss popularized denim jeans, which became a symbol of American fashion. This French fabric has become quintessentially American, with the US being one of the largest consumers of denim in the world.
Hamburger
You would be shocked to know that one of the most popular American foods, hamburgers, originated in Hamburg, Germany. Hence, the name. German immigrants brought the idea of minced beef patties to America in the late 19th century. Today, the hamburger has become a symbol of American fast food culture. According to the USDA, Americans consume nearly 50 billion hamburgers each year.
Summer Solstice
Celebrating the longest day of the year is a pagan Celtic, Slavic, and German tradition that dates back to the Druids and Vikings. However, celebrating the summer solstice has gained popularity in the US. Solstice events in America often include bonfires, music, and gatherings focused on connecting with nature and welcoming the summer season.
Picnics
The concept of a picnic originated from the French pique-nique, an outdoor meal enjoyed with friends or family. It became popular in America in the 19th century, especially as cities developed parks and public spaces. Picnics are now a common way for Americans to enjoy nature, especially during holidays and summer weekends.
Homeopathy
Homeopathy, a form of alternative medicine, originated in Germany in the late 18th century and was introduced to the US in the 19th century. Though its scientific effectiveness is often debated, homeopathy remains a popular option for Americans seeking alternative treatments. A survey of 1690 Americans conducted by Marist Poll found that 61% of American households use homeopathy products daily, and 75% use them at least monthly.
Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday,” is a festive tradition with roots in French and Catholic customs. It was brought to the US by French settlers in the 18th century, particularly in Louisiana. New Orleans is famous worldwide for its Mardi Gras celebrations, which feature parades, colorful costumes, and bead-throwing. Today, this American celebration attracts millions of tourists each year.