News | HISTORY

When Were Seat Belts Invented?

The three‑point seat belt that is mandated in cars today was built upon several earlier designs and influenced by health and safety findings.

The Richter Scale’s California Origins

Charles Richter worked with Beno Gutenberg to develop one of the first data‑driven ways of comparing earthquakes.

The 1824 Presidential Election Ended in an Electoral Tie: Controversy Ensued

After the tied election went to the House of Representatives, an anonymous letter accused two of the candidates of making a ‘corrupt bargain.’

Horrific Fate of Officer in Doomed Arctic Expedition Revealed

What happened to the crew of the Franklin expedition remains unclear, but cannibalized remains were identified as belonging to third‑in‑command James Fitzjames.

The History of the Bra: From Corsets to Spandex

While bras shape women’s bodies, the development of bras has been shaped by world events.

Jimmy Carter’s Life in Photos

At his 100th birthday, the legacy of America’s 39th president extends far beyond his four years in the White House.

Why Is ‘The Catch’ Called Baseball’s Most Perfect Play?

In 1954, the Giants’ Willie Mays made a catch that wowed the nation—and became a legendary moment in baseball history.

How Radiocarbon Dating Unlocks Ancient History

When a chemist discovered that carbon atoms could be used to date ancient remains, he devised a method that upended archaeology.

How Dolly the Sheep Sparked Debate Over Cloning

When news broke in 1997 that scientists had cloned a sheep, the world reacted in shocked amazement—and fear over the possibility of human cloning.

Who Invented the Dishwasher?

Josephine Garis Cochran had no formal mechanical engineering education, but she designed, built, marketed and sold her dishwashing machine back in the 1880s.

5 Hidden Features of the NYC Subway

From remnants of a once‑glorious station to mysterious depictions of beavers, the NYC subway holds many secrets.

Why Did Maria Callas Lose Her Voice?

Callas became the most celebrated operatic soprano of the 20th century, but then her career—and life—were cut short.