There is no doubt that in the United States, the ultimate national crown that every beauty queen aspires is either the Miss USA or Miss America title. An even grander dream meant an American beauty is seeking the Miss Universe crown. But no one seems to mind the "other" pageant that is much older and well in fact much more difficult - statistically speaking - for an American woman to win. I am talking, of course, about Miss World.

The truth of the matter is, United States was represented by far more spectacular women at Miss World in comparison with any other beauty pageant, Miss Universe included. And while a semifinals finish of USA at Miss Universe is almost guaranteed, American reps must really sweat it out to even just be in the semis of Miss World.

United States boasts three Miss World crown, one of which was recently won by Kentucky native Alexandria Mills. While she is famous in her home state and was interviewed by some TV and radio programs, Alexandria is not really celebrated nationally. An average American would more likely know the reigning Miss USA than the reigning Miss World.

The first Miss World crown was won by Marjorie Wallace in 1973. Marjorie, already known for her wildness at an early age, failed to finish her reign as she was relieved of her duties for failing to fulfill her obligations as Miss World. In 1990, the second crown was won by Gina Tolleson. Gina was a South Carolinian model who won as 1st runner-up at the Miss USA contest.

Of course, there are other notable Miss United States at Miss World. On top of the list is Halle Berry who became 5th runner-up at Miss World 1986.

This year, United States will be represented by a beautiful model named Erin Cummins. A Washingtonian, Erin will try her luck to have a back to back win. She stands at 5'9.5" and is 19 years old. If one is to analyze the standing of her country at Miss World, Erin has good chances!

While it is true that United States started its Miss World campaign in the last decade with a whimper, it certainly did end with a bang. In 2001, Carrie Stroup represented United States at the pageant. She was a blonde beauty with a beach vibe and there was no doubt in my mind at that time that she will be a strong contender for the crown. Unfortunately, Carrie did not make it to the semis. I even wrote an article for her and name her as the "If Only She Was There..." girl for Miss World 2001.

In 2002, Rebekah Revels wowed everyone with her great voice. Nigeria is supposed to host the pageant but was moved to London after protests and riots against the pageant emerged. A teacher, Rebekah made it to the Top 10 and was named as Best in Talent, thanks to her wonderful singing prowess.

In 2003, Kimberly Harlan failed to make it to the semis for United States.

In 2004, Nancy Randall became the 2nd runner-up. She was only selected as winner of the Beach Beauty Award. Nancy's strength is her personality and shapely body. Her smile is genuine and her moves are reserved yet confident. Her nicely curled hair and thick lips beautifully complemented her face.

In 2005, Lisette Diaz failed to make it to the semis. Lisette was originally a runner up at Miss California USA pageant and decided to compete at the U.S. Miss World pageant. Lisette reflects the era when American delegates to Miss World are actually winners of a specific competition where. In recent years, Miss United States for Miss World are now being handpicked.

While she was one of the semifinalists in various pre-finals competition, Miss World United States 2006 Brooke Angus failed to make the cut. The pageant was held at that time in Poland where Czech Republic won the crown. In 2007 Abigail McCary landed on the semis for winning the sports fast track competition. A beautiful blonde from Colorado, Abigail sports a regular look and perhaps may not be in the semis if the fast tracks contests are not in place.

By the year 2008, United States' performance at Miss World is steadily declining. Lane Lindell settled for the Best Dress Award but failed to make it to the semis. In 2009, Lisa Marie-Kohrs settled only as one of the finalists of the Beach Beauty competition.

Of course we all now know what happened in 2010. Like the winner a year before, Alexandria Mills was not considered as a front-runner. But defying odds and predictions, Alexandria captured the third Miss World crown from USA. She may be bereft of spunk, glamor and glitz associated with a typical American beauty queen, Alexandria did her job well doing charitable works across the globe. More like an anti-thesis to Marjorie Wallace. Alexandria's victory proved that Americans could excel even in pageants where their typical standards no longer apply.