Joseph A. Williams

Latest from this author

What Was the Beast of Gévaudan?

Between 1765 and 1767, an unknown creature killed over 100 people in a rural region of France—and captivated a horrified world.

1920s

This 1920s Inventor Sped Up Climate Change With His Chemical Creations

Thomas J. Midgley is now considered one of history's most dangerous inventors.

1970s

When Truckers Shut Down America to Protest Oil Prices—and Became Folk Heroes

The strike started when one driver, mad as hell about the OPEC oil crisis, turned off his engine and got on his CB radio.

The Coast Guard’s New London-based vessels as seen in 1927 for prohibition enforcement. Among them is CG-290, which was later involved in the Black Duck incident. (Image courtesy of the U.S. Coast Guard)

1920s

The Deadly Speedboat Shooting That Spurred an End to Prohibition

A nighttime boat chase that ended in gunfire and the deaths of three men triggered outrage that would lead to a new amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

A German drawing of a submerged U boat in British waters during World War One. (Credit: Classic Image/Alamy)

World War I

The Daring Deep Sea Divers Who Helped Crack WWI German Codes

How a secret team of British divers hunted codes from German shipwrecks.

World War II

The Secret World War II Mission to Kidnap Hitler’s A-Bomb Scientists

Anticipating the Allied arrival, German researchers hid their files inside a watertight drum and sunk it into a cesspool.

19th Century

In 1857, NYC Police Didn’t Keep the Peace—They Caused a Riot

Two separate police forces— state and city—came head to head in a bloody brawl.

U.S. History

World History

Eras & Ages

Culture & Tradition

Science & Innovation