American Genius: Some people get all misty-eyed over military victories and record-breaking athletes. Some wave the star-spangled banner every time a politician kisses a baby. Not us. We reserve our nationalistic fervor for America's greatest resource--its smartypants. In this awe-inspiring issue, mental_floss tips its hat to every mind-blowing genius on the American block. From the corn-fed farm boy who invented the television to Martin Luther King's openly gay ghostwriter, we're giving you 25 stories you need to hear about 25 minds that changed the way we live.

The American Genius issue features:

Falling Up: Shel Silverstein's Unlikely Rise to Kid Lit Superstardom
Houseguests from Hell: 6 Horrifying Parasites Guaranteed to Overstay Their Welcome
Fowl Ball: How an Island Full of Landmines Led to a Thriving Penguin Population

Also learn about:

How Gas Prices Work
50-Cent Tour: Argentina
Argentine Idol: How the Rebel Gaucho Cowboys Went From Outcasts to Icons
Underground Education: Four Score and Seven Lattes Ago
Six Degrees of Ken Jennings: Kevin Bacon and Canadian Bacon
Masterpieces: Henri Cartier-Bresson's "Place De L'Europe" and Jasper Johns' "Flag"
10 Sports They Don't Teach You in Gym
Dead Guy Interview: Billie Holiday

plus: a "Color"-ful scatter_brained, a Know-It-All's look at the letter G, and more!