YouTube has become a platform not just for entertainment, but also for revolutionary moments that have left a lasting impact on internet culture. Since its launch in 2005, it has transformed simple clips into global sensations, showcasing everything from accidental humor to cultural phenomena. Here are 20 of the most iconic videos that have shaped YouTube and defined virality.

1. “Me at the Zoo”: The very first video uploaded to YouTube features Jawed Karim at the San Diego Zoo. This 19-second clip may be simple, but it marks the inception of a revolution in video sharing.

2. “Charlie Bit My Finger”: Capturing an innocent moment, this video features a toddler biting his brother’s finger. Its relatability made it one of the earliest family viral sensations.

3. “Gangnam Style” by Psy: This K-pop hit wasn’t just catchy; it became the first video to surpass 1 billion views, introducing millions to a new dance craze and redefining the music video landscape.

4. “Evolution of Dance” by Judson Laipply: By blending impersonations of various dance styles, this comedic masterpiece became one of the most-watched videos on the platform, showcasing the potential for creativity in content.

5. “Baby Shark Dance” by Pinkfong: This enchanting children’s song became the most-watched video of all time by 2020, demonstrating the power of simple, engaging content to capture hearts.

6. “David After Dentist”: Documenting a young boy’s comical reactions post-dental surgery, this heartfelt footage turned a mundane experience into a viral favorite.

7. “Sneezing Baby Panda”: The adorable shock of a panda’s sneeze became a quick favorite, capturing the essence of why animals can easily go viral.

8. “The Crazy Nastyass Honey Badger”: This humorous documentary-style video introduced a new level of entertainment, complete with a memorable catchphrase that became part of online lingo.

9. “Rickroll”: The prank phenomenon that gained traction from Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up,” this meme turned a classic song into an enduring joke across the internet.

10. “Leave Britney Alone” by Chris Crocker: This emotional plea for compassion towards Britney Spears sparked parodies and discussions around celebrity culture, becoming an early example of YouTube’s potential for social commentary.

11. “Nyan Cat”: An animated cat flying through space with a pop-tart body became a cultural icon, embodying the quirky humor that thrives on the platform.

12. “What Does the Fox Say?” by Ylvis: This catchy tune leveraged absurdity and humor, leading to one of the most memorable viral hits of the 2010s.

13. “Double Rainbow”: A man’s awe at a double rainbow showcased raw emotion that resonated with viewers worldwide, establishing it as another hallmark of what could go viral.

14. “Shit Girls Say”: This satirical video poked fun at common female phrases, leading to a series of parodies that explored stereotypes with humor.

15. “Damn Daniel”: The catchphrase delivered in response to Daniel’s white Vans turned this simple video into a meme, showcasing how spontaneity can become viral gold.

16. “Harambe – Dicks Out For Harambe”: The tragedy of a gorilla’s death morphed into a meme movement, illustrating how serious events can catalyze internet phenomena.

17. “Salt Bae”: Turkish chef Nusret Gökçe became an internet darling through his dramatic salt-sprinkling technique, turning a culinary moment into a viral sensation.

18. “The Dress”: Sparking intense debate over color perception, this viral image still prompts discussions about how people interpret the same visuals differently.

19. “The Ultimate Dog Tease”: Featuring a comedic voiceover that brought a dog’s expressions to life, this video set a precedent for animal-related humor on the platform.

20. “Kony 2012”: This campaign video brought awareness to critical global issues, highlighting the potential of YouTube as a platform for social activism.

These videos illustrate the vast range of content that can capture the attention of millions. From pure entertainment to poignant social messages, each highlights how the unpredictability of YouTube continues to allow anyone to make an unforgettable impact on the world.

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