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Category: Disasters
The Superstorm That Flooded America 100 Years Ago
On the 100th anniversary of the Great Flood of 1913, take a look back at the most widespread disaster in American history.
The Last Time a Meteor Rocked Russia
Last Friday’s meteor blast recalled the memory of an even more powerful space rock explosion over Siberia: the mysterious 1908 Tunguska event.
‘Women and Children First’? On Sinking Ships, It’s Every Man for Himself
Despite the chivalry seen aboard Titanic, men usually fare better than women when marine disasters strike.
9 Tales of Broken Arrows: Thermonuclear Near Misses Throughout History
Find out about the nuclear weapon that detonated in Albuquerque 55 years ago, as well as eight other “broken arrow” incidents over the decades.
The Hindenburg Disaster: 9 Surprising Facts
On the 75th anniversary of the Hindenburg disaster, explore nine surprising facts about the massive German airship and its fiery demise.
Urban Infernos Throughout History
Get the facts on the Great Chicago Fire, which took place 140 years ago, and other blazes that decimated cities.
Why Do Hurricanes Have Names?
As Hurricane Irene churns toward the northeastern United States, find out how tropical cyclones came to be assigned people’s names.
Slideshow: Remembering Chernobyl
Today marks the 25th anniversary of the catastrophe at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, considered the worst disaster of its kind.
100 Years Ago: The Triangle Shirtwaist Fire
Find out how newspapers reported on the Triangle Shirtwaist fire, which killed nearly 150 New York City workers and helped expose poor working conditions 100 years ago.
History’s Worst Nuclear Disasters
As experts scramble to stem the mounting crisis in Japan, we take a look at four of the most devastating nuclear accidents to date.
Beer from 19th-Century Shipwreck May Be Brewed Again
Finnish researchers hope to crack the recipe of 200-year-old beer found in a Baltic shipwreck and recreate it for today’s drinkers.
Major Blizzards in U.S. History
As the East Coast digs out after a two-day blizzard that froze holiday travel, we revisit some of the worst winter storms in U.S. history.
Amazing Rescues
These incredible rescue operations saved lives, brought together communities and captivated millions of well-wishers around the world.
