The Lost Ancient Plant Which Gave Us The Heart Symbol
Heart symbols are everywhere. And it's no surprise their meaning is steeped in history. But also botany.
Read More-
-
Is This The Origin Of Spring Fever?
Spring has, for millennia, been a time of renewal, but it's also been recognized as a difficult time. Is this the origin of spring fever?
Read More -
The True Origin Of The Term Jaywalker
Jaywalking is one of those things that all of us may have done at one time or another. However, the history of the term has quite a countrified origin story.
Read More -
The Hidden Meaning Behind The Pope's Clothes
The Pope is the supreme pontiff, the bishop of Rome, and the head of the Catholic Church. Here's the hidden meaning behind the pope's clothes.
Read More -
This Is The Most Common Zodiac Sign For US Presidents
Presidential candidates don't usually display their star signs while campaigning. However, every president has had one and some signs are more represented.
Read More -
Where The Phrase Kick The Bucket Might Have Originated
The phrase "kick the bucket" to refer to death is well-known, but its origins are less so. Here is where the phrase might have originated.
Read More -
How Did July Get Its Name?
July is currently the calendrical seventh month, but it wasn't always that way. Also, the summer month got its name from a controversial historical figure.
Read More -
The Worst Things Saints Have Ever Done
There are some saints that only turned holy after lots of sinning. It turns out you can dabble in murder, kidnapping, and genocide, yet still become a saint.
Read More -
The Historical Reason Cufflinks Were Invented
Cufflinks have been around for centuries, and they were invented out of necessity.
Read More -
Why Ukraine Doesn't Have Nuclear Weapons
While Russia remains a nuclear power, Ukraine doesn't have the option of an atomic offense or defense. Here's why Ukraine doesn't have nuclear capabilities.
Read More -
The Native American Fish Wars Of The 1960s And 1970s Explained
The U.S. cared little about upholding treaties, and for over a century, Native American rights were infringed upon. This oppression culminated in the Fish Wars.
Read More -
The Real Reason Putin Replaced 1,000 Of His Staff Members
It's safe to say that no one is universally loved, but when you run a totalitarian regime prone to invading other countries, popularity dips and paranoia soars.
Read More -
Historian Claims This Was Abraham Lincoln's Last Meal Before His Assassination
The life and times of Abraham Lincoln have been the subject of literally hundreds of volumes, examining every possible motive and action, including food.
Read More -
Who Is Buried At The Taj Mahal?
No question but the Taj Mahal is one of the most famous architectural accomplishments in the world. What's not as well known is the purpose behind it.
Read More -
Where Is The Original Mona Lisa?
Leonardo da Vinci created countless pieces of priceless artwork. The Mona Lisa is considered the most famous painting in history and has a permanent home here.
Read More -
The Tragic Story Of The Oklahoma Girl Scout Murders
A parent's worst nightmare came true in 1977 when three girls were abducted, assaulted, and killed during their stay at an Oklahoma Girl Scout Camp.
Read More -
The History Of The Mailbox
Perhaps most people no longer communicate with paper and envelope and postage stamp. Nevertheless, postal mail -- letters, cards -- need a place to land.
Read More -
The Surprisingly Long History Of Film Trailers
We've all seen a movie where we think, "All the good parts were in the trailer." Movies haven't been around forever, and neither have trailers.
Read More -
Who Invented The Revolving Door?
A revolving door almost seems like an anachronism in today's world of high-tech structures. When it was invented, it was remarkably ingenious. And still is.
Read More -
Why St. Louis' Famed Gateway Arch Is An Optical Illusion
The Gateway Arch is St. Louis' most famous landmark, but it's actually an optical illusion with a fascinating history. Here's why it's deceptive to the eye.
Read More -
The Real Reason Easter Changes Dates
Easter is a Christian holiday that occurs in the springtime. However, a complicated history reveals why this observance happens on different days each year.
Read More -
The History Of How The Classic Rob Roy Cocktail Got Its Name
There's the non-alcoholic Roy Rogers, a sort of partner to the spirits-free Shirley Temple. And then there's the Rob Roy, which most assuredly includes spirits.
Read More -
How Many World Wars Have There Actually Been?
Aside from World War I and II, you can find a host of wars throughout history that very much count as world wars. How many world wars have there actually been?
Read More -
The Secret History Of Women Bootleggers
While their role has been largely ignored in pop culture, the majority of bootleggers in the 1920s were women. This is the secret history of women bootleggers.
Read More -
The World's Oldest Customer Complaint Is Almost 4000 Years Old
If there's one thing humans love, it's complaining. Just take a look at Yelp and you'll see customers ranting. Turns out it's been happening for millennia.
Read More -
How Ulysses S. Grant Lost All His Money
Though he isn't as famous as Washington or Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant was still a significant historical figure. Here's how he lost all his money.
Read More -
What Was The Biggest Upset In March Madness History?
Few things send sports fans on a roller coaster ride of emotions quite like an upset during March Madness. So what's the biggest upset in its history?
Read More
