HISTORY

Residents of Washington, D.C., have no governor, no voting representation in Congress, and only limited local authority. The reason is simple: D.C. isn’t a state. Let’s break down the history and future of D.C. statehood.

Christmas in July seems like a Hallmark Channel invention. But it actually has its roots in a pretty surprising source.

These movies triggered enormous cultural and political changes that continue to affect the world decades later.

Perhaps the best treats to beat the summer heat are those that haven’t been around for awhile.

Discover everything you need to know about flower girls, including the history behind why this wedding tradition got started in the first place.

From the birthplace of the Bard to a seemingly ordinary stone on a London Street, Shakespeare’s influence on history and culture can be found in unexpected places.

Those who make significant contributions to the arts and humanitarian causes can be honored as knights and dames—even non-British citizens.

The 18th president’s descendant had a storied career in museum curation before turning his attention to an affable vampire.

From big stone spheres to an actual mummy, amazing archaeological finds have been unearthed by people just minding their own business.

The coating protected items like boots and carriage parts from wear and tear—and looked luxurious while doing so. But who invented patent leather? And does that person actually hold a patent for it?

From the Vatican’s “Lesus” medal to Beanie Babies to the Civil War coins that declare “shoot him on the spoot.”

From pop royalty to prog-rock gods, here are the household names who decided against showing up to the July 13, 1985 event.