Author: History and Mystery
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Britain Used to Have a Special Tax on Windows
Imagine a tax on windows: Britain's peculiar levy shaped architecture, health, and society—but how did it end?
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Before Time Zones Were Established in 1883, North America Had Over 144 Local Times
Timekeeping chaos reigned in pre-1883 North America, with over 144 local times causing confusion—but why did this temporal maze exist?
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Ancient Greek and Roman Sculptures Were Originally Painted, Not Pure White
Discover the vibrant truth behind ancient Greek and Roman sculptures: their pristine white appearance hides a colorful secret that's reshaping art history.
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Alaska's Coastline Is Longer Than All Other States' Combined
Gaze upon Alaska's coastline, stretching beyond imagination, and discover why its length surpasses all other U.S. states combined—but that's just the beginning.
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All Clownfish Are Born Male
Prepare to be amazed: clownfish's gender-bending journey from male to female holds secrets that will change your view of marine life.
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"Black Friday" Once Referred to Employees Calling in Sick After Thanksgiving
How did 'Black Friday' transform from a workplace headache to a shopping frenzy? The surprising origins reveal unexpected shifts in American culture.
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Buffy the Vampire Slayer* Was the First TV Show to Use *Google* as a Verb
When "Buffy" first used "Google" as a verb, it unknowingly sparked a linguistic revolution—but what other pop culture impacts have we missed?
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Norway Once Knighted a Penguin
In a surprising twist, Norway's knighted penguin Sir Nils Olav III isn't just a novelty—but what's the real story behind this feathered knight?
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Nutmeg Is a Hallucinogen
Hidden within your spice rack, nutmeg harbors a secret power—but unlocking its hallucinogenic potential comes with unexpected consequences.
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In the Diomede Islands, You Can Cross From One Day Into Another
Jump through time without a machine: discover how the Diomede Islands let you cross from one day to another, and why it matters.