“It’s as Backawards as Can Be”: Things in American Culture That Make No Sense to the Rest of the World

There are plenty of things that people shouldn’t be allowed to do until they are adults. The thing is, the United States seems to be kind of confused about what age officially makes you an “adult.” Driving a vehicle, owning a firearm, and signing up for the military are all pretty big deals that require mature decision-making skills. 

However, young people can do all of those things at a bunch of different ages. You can drive a car when you’re 16 and own a weapon when you’re 18. But, when it comes to alcohol, young people have to wait at least a few more years until they turn 21. Some people think it’s odd that kids can own a lethal weapon before they can have a casual, legal drink with their friends. We don’t blame them.