The start of the interstate

Here's an interesting "film" you history buffs might find interesting.

Most do not know that the idea of our interstate system orginiated from Germany: WWII Germany, that is...

When the American army advanced into Germany towards the end of the war, soldiers discovered the German government had built one of the most elaborate and up-to-date highway systems ever imagined. American roads, at the time, were simply two way roads. In fact, prior to the war, Eisenhower had undertaken an endeavor to find a way to cross the US by vehicle. He soon realized our system of roads was completely inadequate. Imagine his surprise when troops started to pour into the heart of Germany.

Not only was he on the verge of ending a bloody way, Eisenhower had just discovered the answer to America's transportation problem.

It's not the best quality. However, the above video (film) was shot by a soldier while his group was making its way into the heart of Germany. It shows the German highway system...and what would be the pattern for the American interstate system.

Marc S.