On April 10, 1976, the longest, fastest and largest roller coaster ride in the world made its debut at Six Flags.

The Screamin' Eagle burst through the Bicentennial year and into the history books by plunging its passengers down a 100-foot drop and throwing them around the track at more than 60 miles per hour.

For four decades it's dared enthusiasts, kids and reluctant parents to ride and teased them with that pause just before the drop. And, just so you know, that's totally done on purpose. The rides designer John Allen took a mischievous outlook about it. "(The ride will) hesitate there -- give them a chance to think about it," said Allen.

Watch: How did J.B. Forbes get that amazing Screamin' Eagle photo?