Pittsburgh’s Contributions to the World, Pt. VIII

To celebrate the beginning of our 20th year, we’ve set out to catalogue the contributions that Pittsburgh and western Pennsylvania have made to the world. The list has grown and grown, and despite our best efforts, we know we’ll leave out key contributors. I think you’ll find that this small city at the confluence of three rivers has played an astonishingly outsized role in the creation of this country and the world we inhabit. So, read on, and be inspired to pick up the gauntlet and take your turn in building this great American city – Douglas Heuck

The Big Mac 
Perhaps the world’s most famous sandwich — and the most iconic McDonald’s menu item — was invented in Pittsburgh’s suburbs in 1967. Jim Delligatti, a McDonald’s franchise owner in Uniontown, created the sandwich to cater to customers seeking a heartier option. Its popularity in Pittsburgh led to its nationwide launch in 1968, creating a global phenomenon. A jingle in the 1970s that people across America memorized and sang highlighted the Big Mac’s ingredients: “Two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions on a sesame seed bun.”  

Arnold Palmer – “King” of Golf  
Palmer was one of golf’s greatest players and beloved sports figures. Born in Latrobe, in 1929, he grew up learning the game on his father’s golf course. His humble beginnings, good looks and charisma made him a relatable and inspiring figure for fans worldwide. His fans were so numerous, they became known as “Arnie’s Army.” Palmer won 62 PGA Tour titles, including seven major championships. His aggressive playing style and ability to perform under pressure helped popularize golf during the television era. His battles with contemporaries like Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player captivated audiences. Palmer became a successful businessman, founding the Arnold Palmer beverage brand and designing golf courses around the world.  He was a philanthropist, supporting numerous charitable causes, including children’s hospitals and scholarship and his legacy lives on through the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.

George Romero – Father of the Zombie Movie
Romero’s filmmaking transformed the horror genre. Born in the Bronx in 1940, Romero moved to Pittsburgh to attend Carnegie Mellon University, where he began his career. His debut film, Night of the Living Dead (1968), was shot in western Pennsylvania on a modest budget but became a cultural phenomenon. Its groundbreaking use of zombies as metaphors for societal fears and tensions redefined horror storytelling. Romero continued to make influential films, including Dawn of the Dead and Day of the Dead,” solidifying his reputation as a master of the genre. Romero’s legacy endures in the countless filmmakers and storytellers he inspired. 

Fred Rogers – “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood”
He was a pioneering figure in children’s television and an enduring symbol of kindness and compassion. Born in Latrobe in 1928, Rogers created and hosted Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, which aired from 1968 to 2001. Filmed in Pittsburgh at WQED, the program reached millions of children, teaching lessons about empathy, self-esteem, and understanding. Rogers’ unique approach to television set him apart. With his gentle demeanor and direct communication style, he addressed complex topics such as divorce, death, and racial equality in a way that children could understand. Iconic elements of the show — his cardigan sweaters, the Neighborhood of Make-Believe, and his signature song “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” — became beloved symbols of his message of unconditional acceptance. 

Beyond television, Rogers was a fierce advocate for children’s education and media quality. His 1969 testimony before the U.S. Senate was instrumental in securing funding for public broadcasting, demonstrating the power of his gentle yet persuasive advocacy. Among his numerous awards was the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Rogers remains a cherished figure, not just in Pittsburgh but around the world. His ability to connect with audiences across generations and his unwavering commitment to kindness have left an indelible mark on American culture. The Fred Rogers Center in Latrobe promotes his vision of creating a more understanding and compassionate world. 

Roberto Clemente – The Great One 
The Hall of Fame outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates is remembered not only for his remarkable baseball career but also for his humanitarian efforts. Born in Puerto Rico in 1934, Clemente joined the Pirates in 1955 and became one of the greatest players in Major League Baseball history. Over his 18-season career, he earned 12 Gold Glove Awards, four batting titles, and was named the 1966 National League MVP. Clemente’s contributions to baseball went beyond his on-field achievements. He was a trailblazer for Latin American players, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations. His pride in his heritage and his advocacy for racial and cultural equality made him an adored figure both in Pittsburgh and internationally. 

Clemente died in a plane crash on New Year’s Eve in 1972 while delivering aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua. His tragic death immortalized him as a great humanitarian. The facts of his baseball career and of his life earned him the nickname “The Great One.” The Roberto Clemente Award is given annually to an MLB player who exemplifies sportsmanship and community service. 

Baseball Stars
Stan Musial — “Stan the Man” — was one of the greatest baseball players in history and a native of Donora, south of Pittsburgh. Born in 1920, Musial spent his 22-year Major League Baseball career with the St. Louis Cardinals, earning three MVP awards and helping the team win three World Series titles. Known for his consistency and sportsmanship, Musial’s legacy includes 24 All-Star selections and a career batting average of .331.  

Glenn Beckert – was an All-Star second baseman with the Chicago Cubs. A Pittsburgh native, born in 1940, he was one of the league’s consistent hitters during the 1960s and 1970s.  

Sam McDowell – was an All-Star pitcher born in Pittsburgh in 1942. He became one of the most dominant left-handers of his era. Nicknamed “Sudden Sam” for his blazing fastball, McDowell led the American League in strikeouts five times during his career, primarily with the Cleveland Indians.  

Dick Allen — was born and grew up in Wampum, Lawrence County. Known for his prodigious power and versatility, Allen played for several teams, including the Philadelphia Phillies and Chicago White Sox. He was a seven-time All-Star and MVP winner. Despite facing significant racial barriers during his career, Allen’s resilience and talent made him one of the most respected players of the 1960s and ‘70s.

Barry Bonds — is baseball’s home run leader. Born in 1964, Bonds joined the Pirates in 1986, quickly establishing himself as one of the game’s most dynamic players. During his seven seasons with the team, he earned two MVP awards and helped lead the Pirates to three consecutive National League Championship Series appearances from 1990 to 1992. Bonds later achieved greater fame with the San Francisco Giants, setting the all-time home run record. 

Jack Klugman and “Oscar Madison” 
The versatile actor best known for his roles in 12 Angry Men, The Odd Couple and Quincy, M.E. spent formative years in Pittsburgh — and he may have been goaded to succeed by what his drama professor at Carnegie Mellon University told him: “Young man, you are not suited to be an actor. You are suited to be a truck driver.” Klugman’s relatable, everyman persona and dynamic acting style made him an admired figure on stage and screen and one of television’s great character actors, especially his role as disheveled sportswriter Oscar Madison in The Odd Couple. 
  
Joseph Wambaugh – Hard-boiled author
A best-selling author and former police officer, Wambaugh was born in East Pittsburgh in 1937. Wambaugh’s novels, such as The Choirboys and The Onion Field, contain gritty and realistic portrayals of law enforcement and revolutionized the crime genre. His work blends dark humor, pathos, and an understanding of police culture, drawing on his experience as a Los Angeles Police Department officer. 

Annie Dillard – Pulitzer Prize-Winning Writer 
A Pulitzer Prize-winning author and poet with keen observations of nature and the human experience, Dillard was born in Pittsburgh in 1945. She gained widespread acclaim for her book Pilgrim at Tinker Creek (1974), which blends memoir, philosophy, and ecological reflection. The work earned her the Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction and established her as one of America’s foremost literary voices. Dillard’s Pittsburgh upbringing informs her writing, particularly her ability to find wonder in everyday life. Her other notable works, including “An American Childhood,” reflect her deep appreciation for her hometown and the natural world.  

Henry Mancini – “Pink Panther” and “Peter Gunn” composer
The composer and arranger grew up in the Pittsburgh suburb of West Aliquippa. He became one of Hollywood’s most celebrated composers, creating unforgettable scores for films and television. His work includes “The Pink Panther Theme” “Moon River” from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and “Peter Gunn.” During his distinguished career, Mancini won four Academy Awards and 20 Grammy Awards. 
 
The Cradle of Quarterbacks
Notre Dame Legend Johnny Lujack was a Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback who was born in Connellsville in 1925. Lujack played college football at Notre Dame, where he led the Fighting Irish to three national championships. After serving in the Navy during World War II, he returned to Notre Dame, winning the Heisman in 1947. Lujack later played in the NFL for the Chicago Bears, where his leadership and versatility earned him recognition as one of the early stars of professional football. 

The Baltimore Colts’ Johnny Unitas was widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. Born in Pittsburgh in 1933 and raised in the city’s Bloomfield neighborhood, he overcame early setbacks to achieve legendary status with the Colts. Known as the “Golden Arm,” he transformed the quarterback position with his leadership and passing skills, earning three NFL championships and a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

“Broadway Joe” Namath is a Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback who grew up in Beaver Falls. Known for his charisma and confident style, Namath gained national fame during his college career at the University of Alabama before joining the New York Jets in the American Football League (AFL). In 1969, Namath led the Jets to an iconic victory in Super Bowl III, famously guaranteeing the upset over the heavily favored Baltimore Colts. Namath’s combination of on-field talent and off-field charm made him a cultural icon, transcending football to become a household name and sex symbol with numerous television ads in which he sold shaving cream, skin lotion, pantyhose, and cologne.  

Terry Bradshaw was one of the most memorable quarterbacks in NFL history, the cornerstone of the Steelers’ dynasty in the 1970s. Drafted first overall in 1970, Bradshaw led the Steelers to four Super Bowl victories in six years, earning two Super Bowl MVP awards in the process. His powerful arm and clutch performances made Bradshaw instrumental in turning the Steelers into a perennial powerhouse. His connection with legendary teammates like Lynn Swann and Franco Harris helped define an era of dominance in Pittsburgh sports. Off the field, Bradshaw became a charismatic television personality, transitioning into a successful career as a broadcaster and entertainer. His larger-than-life personality and self-deprecating humor endear him to fans across the country.  

Miami Dolphins Quarterback Dan Marino is a Hall of Fame player and one of the NFL’s most prolific passers. A Pittsburgher, Marino was a standout at Central Catholic High School and the University of Pittsburgh and became a first-round pick for the Dolphins in 1983. Over his 17-year career, Marino set numerous passing records and redefined the position with his quick release and pinpoint accuracy. Though he never won a Super Bowl, Marino is one of the all-time greats.  

Buffalo Bills Quarterback Jim Kelly is another Hall of Famer, leading the Bills to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances. He was born in East Brady, near Pittsburgh. Kelly’s strong arm and competitive spirit defined his career, making him one of the most successful quarterbacks of his era.  

Joe Montana, the legendary San Francisco quarterback who won four Super Bowls, was born in New Eagle, near Pittsburgh. Known for his calm under pressure and precision passing, “Joe Cool” led the 49ers dynasty of the 1980s. His western Pennsylvania upbringing, in a region renowned for producing elite quarterbacks, shaped his competitive drive and work ethic, making him one of the greatest players in NFL history. 

Ben Roethlisberger, affectionately known as “Big Ben,” led the Steelers to two Super Bowl championships in his 18-year career. Drafted in 2004, Roethlisberger quickly became known for his toughness, mobility, and ability to execute under pressure.   

Poison Icon Mr. Yuk 
Pediatrician Dr. Richard Moriarty of Pittsburgh’s Children’s Hospital and Richard Garber, president of the PR and advertising firm Vic Maitland & Associates, created the iconic green face symbolizing poison warnings in 1971 for the Poison Center. Designed to replace the ineffective skull-and-crossbones symbol — which in Pittsburgh was also the Pirates logo — Mr. Yuk became a national symbol for poison prevention and safety. 

The Pittsburgh Steelers – The Pride of Pittsburgh
One of the most storied franchises in sports, The Steelers have won, along with the New England Patriots, more Super Bowls (6) than any other team. Founded in 1933 by Art Rooney, the team initially struggled to find success but eventually became synonymous with excellence and toughness. Known for their rich tradition, passionate fan base, and iconic black-and-gold uniforms, the team’s rise to prominence began in the 1970s under head coach Chuck Noll, who built a dynasty that captured four Super Bowl titles in six years. The “Steel Curtain” defense, featuring legends Joe Greene, Jack Lambert, L.C. Greenwood and Mel Blount, became one of the most dominant defensive units in NFL history. On offense, quarterback Terry Bradshaw, running back Franco Harris, and wide receiver Lynn Swann led the charge, creating a balanced team that epitomized hard-nosed football.  

The Steelers added two more Super Bowl titles in 2005 and 2008, led by quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and standout players Hines Ward, Troy Polamalu, and Jerome Bettis. The team’s consistency and resilience made it a perennial contender in the modern era. The Steelers boast one of the most dedicated fan bases in sports, the “Steelers Nation.” Fans travel to games across the country, often waving their iconic Terrible Towels in support of the team. The team is also memorable for the Rooney family – with four generations involved – and the Rooney Rule, introduced by Dan Rooney in 2003, which requires NFL teams to interview minority candidates for head coaching and senior management positions.

Franco Harris and the Immaculate Reception  
Born in 1950 in Fort Dix, New Jersey, Harris attended Penn State University before the Steelers drafted him in 1972. He quickly became a key player in the team’s offense, earning the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award in his first season. He is best remembered for the “Immaculate Reception,” a miraculous play during a 1972 playoff game that secured a victory for the Steelers and marked the beginning of their dominance in the NFL. His powerful running style and versatility made him one of the greatest players of his era. Off the field, Harris was more extraordinary, setting an example for other sports heroes of how to leverage his celebrity to improve the community. 
 
“Mean” Joe Greene 
Greene was the cornerstone of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ legendary “Steel Curtain” front four. Drafted in 1969, Greene’s dominant presence as a defensive tackle transformed the team. His aggressive style and leadership earned him multiple Pro Bowl selections and two Defensive Player of the Year awards. He became a beloved national figure through a Coca-Cola commercial in which a limping, tired and grumpy Greene walks into the clubhouse after the game and tries to ignore a young fan who stops him to talk. Then the kid gives Greene his Coke. Greene drinks it down, turns to the kid who is walking away and says, “Hey kid, catch.” And flips his jersey to the boy. Both smile.

The Terrible Towel 
The Terrible Towel is one of the most iconic symbols in sports culture, created in 1975 by Myron Cope, a beloved sports broadcaster for the Steelers.  Over the decades, the Terrible Towel has become synonymous with Steelers fandom, accompanying “Steeler Nation” to games, both home and away.  Proceeds from towel sales — more than $1 million so far —help people with mental and physical disabilities.
 
Charles Grodin – Actor and Comedian 
Grodin was a versatile actor, comedian and writer born in Pittsburgh in 1935. His dry humor and impeccable timing gained Grodin fame for numerous roles in films like Midnight Run, Rosemary’s Baby and Heaven Can Wait. He often appeared on talk shows, showcasing his comedic charm. Despite his success, Grodin maintained a low-key persona, endearing him to fans and peers alike.  
 
Henry and Elsie Hillman — Funding the Silicon Valley 
Henry Hillman was a visionary Pittsburgh businessman, investor, and philanthropist who became a transformative figure in Pittsburgh and the Silicon Valley. Born in 1918, Hillman inherited the Hillman Company, a private investment firm, and he diversified its portfolio beyond coal and steel into industries such as technology, healthcare, and real estate. He played a crucial role in shaping the modern venture capital industry. In 1972 he became a founding limited partner in the first fund of seminal Silicon Valley VC investors Kleiner Perkins and, in 1976, he became the first limited partner in the leveraged buyout firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts. In the early 1980s, Hillman was the largest venture capital investor in the U.S. One of the most important leaders in Pittsburgh in the past 50 years, Hillman was almost alone in the 1970s ringing an alarm to Pittsburgh’s city fathers that the city needed to diversify its industrial base to avoid the industrial collapse, which ultimately came in 1983.  

Hillman and his wife, Elsie, were deeply committed to philanthropy. Elsie also was the Republican Committeewoman for Pennsylvania. Together, they supported numerous causes in their hometown of Pittsburgh, including healthcare, education, the arts and environmental conservation. They endowed the Henry Hillman Foundation, which is one of the most innovative and powerful philanthropies in Pittsburgh. Their philanthropy provided funding for the Hillman Cancer Center, a world-renowned facility for treatment and research. Their contributions included funding projects like the Pittsburgh Cultural District, the Pittsburgh Technology Center, and other initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth and cultural enrichment. Their efforts not only shaped the city’s economic future but also enhanced its cultural and social fabric, making them the most influential couple in Pittsburgh’s modern history. 
 
Pittsburgh Mattress Factory, a Pioneer in Installation Art
The Mattress Factory is a contemporary art museum in Pittsburgh that was founded in 1977 by Barbara Luderowski and co-directed by Michael Olijnyk. The museum is celebrated for its immersive, site-specific installations by artists from around the globe. Its focus on artist-centered and avant-garde art has made it a unique institution.

Scott Fahlman  – First to Use Emojis
The clever little symbol owes its origins to Scott Fahlman, a computer scientist at Carnegie Mellon University. In 1982, Fahlman proposed using 🙂 and 🙁 to denote emotions in online communication, marking the first recorded use of emoticons. His idea laid the foundation for the ubiquitous use of emojis in digital communication. 
 
Rockwell International and The Space Shuttle  
Willard Rockwell was an industrialist and innovator who played a pivotal role in Pittsburgh’s manufacturing and engineering. Born in Boston in 1888, Rockwell moved to Pittsburgh to establish a career in the burgeoning automotive and aerospace industries. As the founder of Rockwell International, he developed key technologies, including specialized bearings that improved the efficiency and durability of machinery. Under Rockwell’s leadership, the company expanded into defense and space exploration. Its engineers and designers were responsible for building the space shuttle’s orbiter, a critical component of NASA’s reusable spacecraft system. Rockwell’s technological advancements in aerospace engineering played a pivotal role in making space exploration more efficient and accessible.  
 
NFL Stars
Mike Ditka – is a Hall of Fame tight end and coach who was born in Carnegie in 1939. As a player, Ditka was dominant, winning an NFL championship with the Chicago Bears and later a Super Bowl with the Dallas Cowboys. As a coach, he led the Bears to a Super Bowl victory in 1985. He’s known for his fiery personality and leadership.

Mercury Morris – was an NFL running back known for his speed and agility. Born in Pittsburgh in 1947, he played a pivotal role in the Miami Dolphins’ perfect season in 1972, the only undefeated season in NFL history.  

Tony Dorsett – was a running back from Beaver County, who won the Heisman Trophy at the University of Pittsburgh. During his Hall of Fame career with the Dallas Cowboys, he was known for his speed and elusiveness. 

Larry Brown – Brown was a versatile offensive lineman and tight end who was born in Clairton, Pennsylvania, in 1947. A key member of what are now the Washington Commanders, Brown played in three Super Bowls, winning one in 1983.

John Edgar Wideman – Writer and Second Black Rhodes Scholar  
Wideman is a celebrated author and academic who was born in Pittsburgh in 1941 and grew up in the city’s Homewood neighborhood. He was a star basketball player who went on to study at the University of Pennsylvania and become the second black Rhodes Scholar. His writing often explores themes of race, identity, and the complexities of urban life, drawing heavily from his experiences in Pittsburgh. His most acclaimed work, Brothers and Keepers, tells the story of his younger brother who lived a street life and received a life prison sentence for being part of a robbery that went wrong. His work earned him two PEN/Faulkner Awards and a National Book Award nomination.