NEWS

What’s the Kennection? #139

All five answers to the questions below have something in common. Can you figure it out?

A statue of Robert Smalls will soon be a part of the South Carolina Capitol grounds.

Robert Smalls, Civil War Hero Who Escaped Enslavement, Is Getting a Statue in South Carolina

The ship’s pilot helped his family reach freedom, then served in the Civil War and in the U.S. Congress. Robert Smalls’s statue will be the first to honor an individual Black citizen on South Carolina State House grounds.

The 5 Most Popular Thanksgiving Side Dishes in 2024

We all have our favorite Thanksgiving side dishes, but do other U.S. residents feel the same about them?

The Discoveries of 21 Human Ancestors, Mapped

Within the last 200 years, we’ve discovered about two dozen species of hominins in Europe, Africa, and Asia—which you can see laid out in this map.

Here’s the newly-discovered flea toad on top of a coin.

Recently Discovered ‘Toadlet’ Is One of Smallest Vertebrates on Earth

Researchers just described one of the tiniest frogs known to science.

Grandfather clocks often become family heirlooms.

Why Is It Called a ‘Grandfather Clock’?

The imposing clocks have an origin story, but it doesn't have much to do with any actual grandfathers.

Meet some of your famous family members.

10 Famous Hominin Fossils That Changed Our Thinking About Human Origins

Each of these ancient fossils, even if just a small part of a skeleton, represents an identifiable character in the story of humankind.

The endangered species faces another obstacle.

Polar Bears Are Picking Up More Pathogens as Sea Ice Shrinks

Researchers recently found that polar bears are facing higher exposure to certain bacteria and viruses.

Maximize your PTO so you can catch up on your reading.

How to Maximize Your Vacation Days in 2025

Americans get an average of only 11 vacation days per year. Use them wisely.

You can save this one for the next time someone makes you mad (though it might not do you any favors, either).

Where Does the Phrase ‘May You Live In Interesting Times’ Actually Come From?

This common phrase is often used during times of political uncertainty, and has even been described as an ancient Chinese curse. History says otherwise, though.

An old toothbrush makes threading a needle a breeze.

Struggling to Thread a Needle? Try Using a Toothbrush

If you have an old toothbrush lying around, you never have to stress over threading a needle again.

Your Thanksgiving preparation can be smoother with Butterball’s “cook from frozen” turkey.

Crunched For Time? Butterball Has a New Turkey You Won’t Have to Thaw

Save some time and energy with Butterball’s new “cook from frozen” turkey.

Be honest—how many words did you already know?

The 10 Most-Searched Slang Terms in 2024

Are all these new slang terms confusing you? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #10

This riddle dates back to 1598—can you figure out the answer?

Why Do We Call Dogs Fido?

“Fido” is a name that has become synonymous with all things dog. But where did the name come from?

A detail of a portrait of Queen Elizabeth I painted to commemorate the defeat of the Spanish Armada (depicted in the background).

15 Amazing Facts About Queen Elizabeth I

She spoke multiple languages, defeated Spain’s powerful navy, and never accepted a marriage proposal. Discover more fascinating facts about Queen Elizabeth I and her reign.

Nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) is a common anesthetic that only requires a mask over the mouth and nose.

How Does Anesthesia Work?

Anesthesia is a complex mixture of medications that lessen pain during procedures. Different types affect the body in different ways.

How All 50 States Got Their Names

Some state name origins are obvious—but others pose an etymological mystery.

Halloween is a thing again in Des Moines.

Des Moines, Iowa, Will Let Kids Trick or Treat on Halloween for the First Time Since 1938

Begging for candy on October 31 was banned after kids set one too many fires.

The Most Overpriced Tourist Attraction in Each State, Mapped

You might want to keep this handy on your next vacation.

This Focaccia Recipe Is a Beginner Baker’s Best Friend

This delicious focaccia recipe from the Institute of Culinary Education might become a staple in your home.

Definition Detective Quiz #12

We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?

Why Do Supreme Court Justices Serve for Life?

Alexander Hamilton argued that lifetime appointments to the Supreme Court were the only way, but some modern scholars disagree.

10 Epic Trails That Every Hiker Should Try

Whether it’s a gentle stroll through the English countryside or summiting Africa’s tallest peak, these bucket-list hikes are not to be missed.

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