**What Is Route 66?**
Route 66 was a 2,400‑mile (3,860 km) road that ran from Chicago to Los Angeles. It’s also called the "Mother Road" and has become a symbol of adventure and freedom in American culture.

**The Road’s Birth**
The road opened officially in 1926 and linked eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. At first many parts were in bad shape, but by 1938 the whole road was paved.

**Big Economic Hard Times**
When the Great Depression started in 1929, many families lost their jobs. In the 1930s, droughts and dust storms destroyed farms in the Midwest. People hoped for a better life and headed west, especially to California. Route 66 was one of the most important roads for these travelers.

**After World War II**
After the war, road trips by car became popular. On Route 66 you could find restaurants, motels, gas stations, and fun attractions. The road became a symbol of freedom and adventure.

**Rise of New Roads**
In 1956 the U.S. government created the Interstate Highway System, a faster and wider network of roads. These new highways passed through many parts of Route 66 and took over its traffic. In 1985 Route 66 was officially removed from the U.S. Highway System.

**The Fight for Survival**
Removing the road from the system didn’t mean it disappeared. Communities and preservation groups worked to keep the old road and historic buildings. Today Route 66 still exists as a tourist route for anyone who wants to explore America’s history.

**100th‑Anniversary Celebrations**
This year, all eight states are holding festivals, car shows, and concerts to celebrate Route 66’s 100th birthday. On September 3 a film tour called the "Main Street of America Road Show" started, and on November 7 it will finish with a big finale in Los Angeles.

**Did You Know?**
- The oldest restaurant on Route 66 opened in 1928 and is still open.
- More than 1,000 historic buildings and monuments line the road.
- In the 1930s part of the road was temporarily closed because of dust storms called the "Dust Bowl."

**Frequently Asked Questions**
- *Does Route 66 still exist?* Yes, many parts of the road are still open and can be visited.
- *Why is it so important?* The road witnessed key moments in American history and changed many people’s lives.
- *How can I visit?* Online maps and guides show the most popular sections of the road.

**Conclusion**
When Route 66 turned 100, it reminded us of America’s adventurous spirit. Following its trail lets us learn history, meet new friends, and keep the road’s legacy alive for future generations.