

History

Why Cinco de Mayo Was First Celebrated in America
How a historic military victory in Mexico became a cultural phenomenon in the United States.
The Real-Life Teenage Castaways Who Proved "Lord of the Flies" Wrong
Eleven years after 'Lord of the Flies' was published, six boys were stranded for fifteen months on an uninhabited island. What happened couldn't have been more different from the book.
7 Things in Star Wars Inspired By Real History
May 4 marks Star Wars Day, so learn a bit about the real-life history behind the iconic sci-fi franchise here.Government and Politics

What Is the "Kennedy Curse"? A Closer Look at the Family’s History
An examination of the so-called "Kennedy Curse" and how family members have publicly responded to it.
Every Time a U.S. Presidential Candidate Won the Popular Vote but Lost the Election
The rare but pivotal elections that changed the conversation about American democracy.
7 Misconceptions About the CIA
People get a lot wrong about this secretive government agency.
4 Major Misconceptions About Congress, Debunked
Do members of congress get paid during government shutdowns? And do they get free health insurance? Let’s get to the bottom of some common myths.
10 Facts You Should Know About Guy Fawkes Night
On November 5, people across Great Britain celebrate Guy Fawkes Night with bonfires and fireworks. But who was Guy Fawkes and why does he have a celebration named after him?
The Gruesome Origins of 7 Safety Laws
From tragic factory fires to toxic food scandals, some safety laws we may take for granted today actually have some pretty unsettling backstories.
8 Famous Artists Who Benefited From the New Deal
The WPA helped everyone from Jackson Pollock to Louise Nevelson.
Why So Many Old British Homes Have Bricked-Up Windows
These odd architectural features are remnants of a time when people had to pay if they wanted to look outside.Presidents

7 Little-Known Presidential Firsts That Flew Under the Radar
Many of these presidential firsts never made the history books.
Meet Billy the Hippo: The Strangest Presidential Pet You’ve Never Heard Of
This president also had a black bear, two lion cubs, and a raccoon named Rebecca.
The 5 Most Unusual Morning Routines of U.S. Presidents
From skinny-dipping to petroleum jelly with breakfast, these strange morning habits of U.S. presidents actually happened.War

5 Children Who Became Soldiers During World War II
Among the most disturbing of the desperate measures taken during World War II was the recruitment of child soldiers. Here are five examples.Mystery

Did Cleopatra Really Die From a Snake Bite? Here's What History Tells Us
A growing number of historians favor a different explanation for her death.
The Medieval Mystery of a City That Danced Itself to Death
In 1518, residents of Strasbourg began dancing uncontrollably for days until they passed away.
7 Unsolved Mysteries Experts Still Can't Explain
These unsettling cases will challenge everything you think you know about reality.
6 Historical Figures Who Died in Bizarre Ways
From freak accidents to ill-fated meals, these historical figures died in ways no one could have predicted.Misconceptions

No, Darth Vader Doesn't Say "Luke, I Am Your Father" in 'Star Wars' (What He Actually Says)
One of the most famous lines in cinema is actually a misquote. Here's what Darth Vader actually tells Luke in 'Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back.'
8 Common Myths About Star Wars
Some of what you think know about Star Wars just might be completely wrong.
5 Common Misconceptions About Woodstock
Woodstock wasn't all peace and love. A helicopter had to airdrop food and Jimi Hendrix performed for a tiny fraction of the original crowd—here are five misconceptions about Woodstock.
5 Biggest Misconceptions About the Salem Witch Trials
These top 5 myths surrounding the Salem Witch Trials will have you questioning your history lessons.
Did Julius Caesar Really Say “Et Tu, Brute?” Here’s What History Tells Us
The line the Roman dictator actually uttered has been overshadowed by a far more famous quote.Royalty

How Do British Royals Get Their Titles?
Even if you’re not a noble, earning one of their titles doesn’t always require a royal wedding.
6 of History’s Worst In-Laws
You’ll be happy these folks aren’t your relatives.
5 Ways Royals Shaped Fashion
Royals from Queen Victoria to Princess Diana have left their mark on the world of fashion.Civil Rights








