What Novel Gave Route 66 Its Nickname “The Mother Road”?
Introduction
Route 66, one of America's most iconic highways, is affectionately known as the "Mother Road." This name has been in use since the 1930s when it was popularized by author John Steinbeck in his novel "The Grapes of Wrath." The novel follows the Joad family, impoverished sharecroppers from Oklahoma, as they traveled to California in search of a better life during the height of the Great Depression. Their journey along Route 66 became a symbol of hope for many Americans who were facing tough times. In this article, we'll explore how Steinbeck's novel gave Route 66 its nickname and its lasting impact on American culture.
History of Route 66
Route 66 was one of the first highways in the United States, created in 1926. It ran from Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California and was 2,448 miles long. It quickly became a popular route for travelers, particularly during the Great Depression when many Americans were looking for a new start in California. The highway became known as the "Main Street of America" and it was the first highway to be fully paved.
John Steinbeck and The Grapes of Wrath
John Steinbeck was an acclaimed American writer whose work often focused on the plight of the working class. In 1939, he published his novel The Grapes of Wrath, which was an instant success. The novel follows the Joad family as they travel from Oklahoma to California in search of a better life. In the novel, Steinbeck describes their journey as a "long journey on the Mother Road." This phrase quickly caught on and Route 66 began to be known as the "Mother Road."
The Impact of The Grapes of Wrath
The Grapes of Wrath was hugely influential in popular culture and it brought attention to the plight of the working class and the struggles they faced in the Great Depression. The novel was made into a movie in 1940 and it won two Academy Awards. It also helped to popularize the nickname "Mother Road" for Route 66, which is still in use today.
The Legacy of Route 66
Route 66 has been immortalized in popular culture with songs, movies, and television shows. It's also been the subject of many books and articles, including Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath. In 1985, the highway was officially decommissioned but it still holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans.
Route 66 Today
Although Route 66 is no longer a fully functioning highway, parts of it still exist and it's still possible to take a road trip along the route. It's become a popular tourist destination and many people take the trip to experience the history and culture of the highway. There are also many museums and attractions along the route that celebrate the legacy of the "Mother Road."
Conclusion
Route 66 is an iconic highway that has been immortalized in popular culture. It was popularized by John Steinbeck's novel The Grapes of Wrath, which gave the highway its famous nickname "Mother Road." The novel brought attention to the struggles of the working class and it's still remembered today. Although the highway is no longer in service, it's still possible to take a road trip along the route and experience its history and culture.
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