The Great Gatsby, by American author F. Scott Fitzgerald, is set on the north shore of Long Island and New York City during the summer of 1922. For Fitzgerald, both in fiction and in real life, the automobile and , more specifically, the limousine, was the ultimate status symbol; it gave proof of one’s place on the road to social and financial success. The chauffeured car was a device he often used as a central symbol in his writings, and Fitzgerald was not blind to the social phenomenon of appearance. “wealth rolls in limousines”.
Historically, the limousine has been a status symbol for the rich and powerful in American society, whether they were presidents, businessmen, celebrities, or gangsters.
Although the word limousine is of French origin, originally used as a term for a hooded carriage driver, the limousine is a uniquely American invention. The first limousine was built in the 1920s by Armbruster & Company of Arkansas and quickly became an international standard in ground transportation for those seeking a combination of comfort and prestige.
More recently, news headlines reported that the number of US government-owned limousines increased by 73 percent during the first two years of the Obama administration. Officials said the increase reflects a greater effort to protect diplomats and other government officials in a dangerous world.
The presidential limousine or “state car” that transports President Obama has many current Cadillac-style themes, but it doesn’t exactly resemble any particular production vehicle. The car is equipped with tear gas cannons, reinforced anti-flat tires and a wheelbase built to withstand bomb and missile attacks. The interior is completely sealed to protect the President against the risk of chemical or biological attack. In the trunk there is a blood bank of the president’s blood type. Interestingly, there are no keyholes in the doors. Although the price has not been announced, there is a rumor that each limo costs $300,000.
The most expensive limousine ever made was made by Rolls-Royce in December 2006. It is a stretched version of the Phantom and is designed to be bulletproof and capable of withstanding a mine detonation. The granddaddy of all limousines comes at a price to match its uniqueness: $3.8 million! Until now, it is the most expensive luxury car in history.
Even with the exorbitant prices of these elite automobiles, renting a limo for the rest of us has become a popular and inexpensive way to celebrate a special occasion. It is no longer limited to the world leader or business executive. They are now an affordable option for anyone wishing to travel in this mode of supreme luxury.
Long Island limousine services like Long Island Limousine by Broward Limousine in Island Park, NY offer a wide range of ground transportation solutions that make limousine travel a perfect addition to any birthday celebration, prom night or wedding ceremony. Limousines are elegant and sophisticated and ensure that passengers arrive at their destination in style.