In the early 19th century, most of the United States was pro-slavery due to its acceptance in European countries. The American Civil War was fought over the legality and morality of slavery, dividing the nation into pro and anti-slavery states. The Confederacy lost the war, and in 1865, a constitutional amendment abolished slavery throughout the […]
The Aztec empire was overthrown by Spanish conquistadors in 1521, and epidemics wiped out 80% of the population within 50 years. A team of paleopathologists identified a deadly strain of Salmonella enterica, Paratyphi C, as the cause of the outbreaks, likely brought to Mexico by the Spanish and spread through infected food or water. The […]
In 1876, the “Kentucky Meat Shower” occurred when small pieces of meat rained down on a farmhouse. The cause is believed to be vultures regurgitating their last meal. Some thought it was a sign from God, but it was likely a natural phenomenon. In many parts of the world, extreme weather events appear to be […]
Life expectancy in rich countries increased by 30-40 years during the 20th century, but is now stabilizing. Predictions vary, with some experts saying current estimates are too conservative. Chronic disease decline was a main factor in increased life expectancy. Monaco, Macau, San Marino, Japan, and Hong Kong have the highest life expectancies, while the lowest […]
In the mid-1800s, Charles Dickens was unhappy when a publisher sold obvious hoaxes of his work, but a judge ruled that readers could tell the difference. The publisher went on to build a successful empire, while Dickens’ work remains widely read. Dickens was also known for his heroism, interest in the supernatural, and possibly having […]
