How Radiocarbon Dating Unlocks Ancient HistoryWhen a chemist discovered that carbon atoms could be used to date ancient remains, he devised a method that upended archaeology.Read more
How Dolly the Sheep Sparked Debate Over CloningWhen news broke in 1997 that scientists had cloned a sheep, the world reacted in shocked amazement—and fear over the possibility of human cloning.Read more
Who Invented the Dishwasher?Josephine Garis Cochran had no formal mechanical engineering education, but she designed, built, marketed and sold her dishwashing machine back in the 1880s.Read more
5 Hidden Features of the NYC SubwayFrom remnants of a once‑glorious station to mysterious depictions of beavers, the NYC subway holds many secrets. Read more
Why Did Maria Callas Lose Her Voice?Callas became the most celebrated operatic soprano of the 20th century, but then her career—and life—were cut short.Read more
The 6 Most Active Volcanoes in the United StatesActive volcanoes abound in Hawaii, Alaska and the western United States, including several that have erupted in recent times.Read more
When WWI, Pandemic and Slump Ended, Americans Sprang Into the Roaring TwentiesAfter enduring dark times, Americans were eager for a comeback.Read more
When President Ford Faced Two Assassination Attempts in One MonthIn September 1975, President Gerald Ford escaped two attempts on his life—both by women and both in California. Read more
The Woman Inventor Behind MonopolyElizabeth “Lizzie” Magie designed her original board game as a critique, not a tribute, to capitalism.Read more
Who Invented the Teleprompter?The first version of the teleprompter was invented by a television actor who was worried about delivering his lines.Read more
How Condoms Evolved Since Ancient TimesAncient Romans used versions made from linen, as well as animal intestines, to prevent the spread of infection.Read more
How Fallingwater Became Frank Lloyd Wright’s Architectural ComebackWright designed the iconic home perched over a waterfall in 1934 as a full realization of what he called “organic architecture.”Read more