The Interstate Highway System

The Interstate Highway System is a network of controlled-access highways in the United States, established in 1956. It was designed to improve national defense, enhance commercial transport, and provide safer, faster travel across states. Covering over 47,000 miles, it connects major cities, facilitates trade, and is crucial for emergency evacuation. Funded primarily by federal and state taxes, the system features standardized signage and speeds to ensure consistency. It has significantly shaped American infrastructure and culture, making road travel more accessible and efficient.