One of the best things about the USA is the diversity of cultures and people that make up the country. Because we are a melting pot of so many different types of people, there are many different types of beliefs and superstitions all over America. Superstitions usually come from folk beliefs, or antiquated practices that have since somewhat vanished in modern society. However, many of these beliefs are so ingrained in certain cultures that they never fully go away. Others may come from ideas of luck and good fortune, or may have more modern origins.
For example, in parts of California, seeing two Volkswagens pass each other on the street is considered a sign to make a wish, and it will come true. A much older superstition from Georgia says that if a horse’s mane is tangled, a witch was riding it. In Louisiana, it is said that throwing out the butt of a loaf of bread will keep money flowing your way. In Michigan, the traditionally unlucky day Friday the 13th is inversely thought to be a lucky day to play the lottery. And in Nebraska, tradition holds that when walking on a new sidewalk, spitting on it and making a wish will ultimately come true. Meanwhile, in Texas, there is a superstition that declares to stop a thunderstorm one must stick an axe in the ground.
While all of these superstitions may simply be myths and old-fashioned beliefs, it is certainly interesting to learn about where they come from and how they stay alive in the hearts of people in these places. The range of these superstitions in the US matches the vast amount of values and cultures, and they all come together in a unique amalgamation that makes the country so interesting.
