How the Bar Code Was Born

The First Bar Code was Drawn in the Sands of Miami Beach

Born from supermarkets' need to speed up checkout, the bar code revolutionized market research and boosted production efficiency.

Who Said It?

Imagination is more important than knowledge.-Albert Einstein
Courage is found in unlikely places.-J. R.R. Tolkien

HISTORY Shorts

Arts & Entertainment

Superman hit the big screen in 1941 via a Fleischer cartoon—faster than a bullet, stronger than a train, leaping tall buildings!

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19th Century

This backyard game has a surprisingly rich and complicated history.

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Early 20th Century U.S.

The secrets of Houdini—born Erik Weisz—are uncovered, along with insights into his early childhood.

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Arts & Entertainment

From the Bob to the Man Bun, explore 100 years of iconic hairstyles.

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At the Amusement Park

The 10 Oldest Roller Coasters in America You Can Still Ride

Keep your hands inside the vehicle as we steer you through the rickety ups and terrifying downhill drops of this classic thrill ride.

Rollercoaster Dog

Paul Boyton founded Sea Lion Park at Coney Island, which created the business model of the first Coney Island Amusement Park.

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Explore Rhode Island’s Rich History

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U.S. States

Explore The Breakers, The Elms and Marble House to discover how Rhode Island became a playground for the elite.

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U.S. States

From the Gaspee Affair to declaring freedom before the rest, Rhode Island’s revolutionary roots run deep.

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U.S. States

Haunted legends once ruled Block Island. Today, its peaceful trails, historic lighthouses and Victorian charm tell a different story.

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U.S. States

In 1636, Roger Williams founded Providence Plantations on radical principles of religious freedom and equality.

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Who's Making History

BAFTA: A Life In Pictures: Christopher Nolan - Photocall

Christopher Nolan

After IMAX released tickets a full year ahead of the release of the director’s upcoming blockbuster epic, 'The Odyssey,' tickets nearly sold out.

Day Fourteen: The Championships - Wimbledon 2025

Jannik Sinner

The 23-year-old defeat Carlos Alcaraz to become Italy's first professional tennis player to triumph at Wimbledon.

Jane Birkin with her Birkin bag

Jane Birkin

The original 'Birkin bag,' designed by Hermès for singer Jane Birkin, fetched $10.1 million at auction. The previous record for a handbag was $513,000.

Christopher Nolan

Dave J Hogan/Getty Images

Jannik Sinner

Clive Brunskill/Getty Images

Jane Birkin

Jun Sato/WireImage via Getty Images

History Revealed

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King Tut's gold mask