Author: Alastair Blackwood
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A Secret Society Existed Called the Order of the Pug
Discover the quirky 18th-century Order of the Pug, a secret society that worshipped dogs and mocked Catholicism. Uncover its bizarre rituals and notable members.
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A Civil War Battle Took Place on French Soil
Discover the surprising Civil War battle fought on French soil. Learn how Confederate and Union forces clashed overseas during this unique wartime event.
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$2 Bills Predate the United States
Discover the surprising history of $2 bills that predate the USA. Learn about their origins, evolution, and significance in early American currency before the nation’s founding.
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A President Existed Before George Washington Under the Articles of Confederation
Discover the surprising truth about a Pre-Washington President who led the United States under the Articles of Confederation before George Washington took office.
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WWII POWs Received Escape Tools in Monopoly Games
During WWII, Allied POWs received hidden escape tools in Monopoly games. Discover how these Monopoly Escape Tools aided prisoners in their daring attempts to break free.
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Richard Nixon Used Poker Winnings to Fund His First Campaign
Before embarking on his political career that would eventually lead him to the White House, Richard Nixon served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. It was during this time that Nixon honed his skills as a poker player, a talent that would unexpectedly play a role in launching his political ambitions. While stationed…
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King Louis XIV Supposedly Owned 413 Beds
The French monarchy is renowned for its opulence and extravagance, particularly during the reign of King Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King. This legendary ruler, who held the French throne for an astounding 72 years and 110 days, embraced luxury in every aspect of his life, including his sleeping arrangements. According to historical…
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The U.S. Army Used a “Ghost Army” of Inflatable Tanks in WWII
During World War II, the U.S. Army deployed a top-secret unit known as the “Ghost Army” to deceive German forces. This innovative military deception unit, officially called the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops, used inflatable tanks, fake radio chatter, and sound effects to mislead the enemy about the location and size of Allied forces. The Ghost…
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An Ancient Chinese Script Had Over 6,000 Characters
The ancient Chinese script, known for its character complexity and logographic writing system, boasts an impressive history that spans thousands of years. One of the earliest forms of this script can be found in Chinese bronze inscriptions, which date back to the Shang dynasty (2nd millennium BC) and continued through the Zhou dynasty (11th–3rd century…