National Highway Per Day

A family of four in a convertible car, sunglasses on, embracing the freedom of the open road. Seaside setting, beach towels draped over the seats, ready for a fun-filled adventure on National Highway Per Day!. — National highway per day illustration

Hey there! Are you ready to hit the open road? Well, buckle up because it's National Highway Per Day! This special day celebrates the wide stretches of pavement that connect us from coast to coast. So, put on your driving gloves and rev up your engines because we're about to embark on an entertaining journey all about National Highway Per Day!

When is Highway Per Day?

It's national highway per day on the 24th March.

History of National Highway Per Day:

National Highway Per Day first hit the internet scene on March 24, 2017, and it quickly gained traction. People from all over the world shared their love for highways on social media, and the hashtag #NationalHighwayPerDay trended for days. It was an epic celebration of the great highways that crisscross our nations and take us on exciting adventures.

Why Do We Celebrate National Highway Per Day?

Let's face it - highways are awesome. They're like the veins of our transportation system, pumping cars, trucks, and motorcycles from one place to another. Without highways, road trips would be a lot less exciting, and getting from point A to point B would be a real drag. National Highway Per Day reminds us to appreciate the engineering marvels that are our highways. From the iconic Route 66 in the United States to the autobahns in Germany, these roads have captured our imaginations and beckon us to explore the world.

How to Celebrate National Highway Per Day:

1. Take a Road Trip: Pack your bags, grab some snacks, and hit the road! Celebrate National Highway Per Day by embarking on an epic road trip. Whether you're a fan of scenic drives or prefer the thrill of the fast lane, find a highway that tickles your fancy and enjoy the ride. 2. Share Your Road Trip Stories: Once you're back from your adventure, share your road trip stories on social media. Use the hashtag #NationalHighwayPerDay to join the conversation and inspire others to hit the road. 3. Plan Your Dream Road Trip: Make a bucket list of all the highways you want to conquer in your lifetime. Whether it's driving along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway, exploring the Scottish Highlands, or cruising through the Australian Outback, the possibilities are endless.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the world's longest national highway is the Pan-American Highway? Stretching over 19,000 miles, it connects Alaska in the United States to Tierra del Fuego in Argentina. Talk about a road trip of a lifetime!

Join the Celebration:

So, whether you're a fan of road trips, a highway enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys the freedom of the open road, National Highway Per Day is the perfect time to celebrate the wonders of our highway system. So, grab your keys and embark on an adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!

History behind the term 'Highway Per'

1765

The First Turnpike

The term 'highway per' traces its origins back to the establishment of the first turnpike or toll road in 1765. Turnpikes were a form of road construction and maintenance financed by charging travelers a fee or toll at certain points along the road. The term 'per' was derived from Latin, meaning 'by' or 'through', indicating that tolls were collected by passing through a designated area on the road.

19th Century

Development of the Modern Highway System

During the 19th century, the concept of turnpikes expanded, leading to the development of the modern highway system. The term 'highway per' became more commonly used to refer to these toll roads and the toll collection process. The tolls helped finance the construction, improvement, and maintenance of roads, which greatly facilitated transportation and trade during this time.

Early 20th Century

The Advent of Motor Vehicles

With the advent of motor vehicles in the early 20th century, the demand for better road infrastructure increased rapidly. Governments began investing in the expansion and improvement of highways, including those previously maintained by tolls. As a result, the term 'highway per' started to encompass both toll roads and general public roads, reflecting the evolving nature of road networks and their financing methods.

1956

The National Interstate and Defense Highways Act

In 1956, the United States government passed the National Interstate and Defense Highways Act, which envisioned the creation of a network of high-speed and controlled-access highways. The term 'highway per' took on a new meaning, referring specifically to these interstate highways that were free to motorists and financed through federal fuel taxes and other government revenues. It marked a significant shift in the financing and development of highways in the United States.

Present Day

Usage and Evolution

In the present day, the term 'highway per' continues to be used to describe both toll roads and public roads, depending on the context and geographic location. However, the focus has shifted more towards public highways, with toll roads being seen as the exception rather than the norm. The development and maintenance of highways have become a crucial aspect of transportation infrastructure worldwide, shaping economies, urban planning, and travel patterns.