July 13 marks the passing of 30 notable modern-era icons whose contributions have left a lasting impact on their respective fields. From composers to actors, each individual has shaped the world in unique ways, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire. 1. Arnold Schoenberg, Composer, 1951 Arnold Schoenberg radically changed the course of music […]
In the summer of 1974, the walls of power began to crack. President Richard Nixon, once reelected in a landslide, was now a leader on the brink. With the Watergate scandal exploding, members of Congress, his own party, and the American public turned against him. What followed was a dramatic political unraveling unlike anything the […]
Political parties feel like an unshakable part of democracy—but they weren’t always around. In fact, the Founding Fathers of the United States warned against them. So how did we end up with the red vs. blue, left vs. right system that dominates politics today? These 15 surprising reasons pull back the curtain on why political […]
In a city known for its dreamers, eccentrics, and rebels, Joshua Abraham Norton still stands out. In 1859, after losing his fortune, this San Francisco resident proclaimed himself Emperor of the United States. But instead of being laughed out of town, he became a beloved icon. Here are 21 wild and wonderfully bizarre facts about […]
Throughout U.S. history, devastating explosions have not only claimed lives but also catalyzed significant reforms in safety laws and regulations. These tragic events exposed critical vulnerabilities in industrial practices, prompting legislative and procedural changes aimed at preventing future disasters. 1. Monongah Mine Disaster (1907) December 6, 1907, marked a coal mining tragedy in Monongah, West […]
Throughout history, July 12 has been a fateful date, marking the passing of several influential figures. These icons, from diverse fields such as philosophy, politics, entertainment, and more, left indelible marks on the world. Each one of them contributed uniquely to their respective domains, and their legacies continue to inspire and influence countless individuals today. […]
When we think of pirates, we often picture eye patches, parrots, and treasure maps marked with an “X.” But beyond the Hollywood glamor, pirates had some wild customs that were surprisingly real. From democratic practices to unusual punishments, here are 17 pirate traditions that sound totally fake — but aren’t. 1. Pirate Democracy Was a […]
Think you know everything about American work culture? Think again. From handshake histories to eyebrow-raising benefits, U.S. job traditions come with more quirks than you might expect. Here are some surprising facts that just might blow your mind—or at least make you do a double take at your office coffee machine. 1. The 40-Hour Workweek […]
Colonial America wasn’t just a time of powdered wigs and revolutionary ideals—it was also an era of questionable hygiene practices that would make modern sensibilities cringe. From infrequent bathing to dubious dental care, here are 17 shocking hygiene habits from colonial times that highlight just how far we’ve come in cleanliness. 1. Bathing Was a […]
The American Civil War was a time of immense hardship, but amidst the turmoil, soldiers and civilians alike found ways to inject humor into their daily lives. One such avenue was through the creation and use of colorful slang terms. These expressions not only provided comic relief but also fostered camaraderie among troops. Here are […]
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