Humans have been looking to beat the heat for centuries, trying everything from importing mountains of snow to freezing their underwear.

FACT CHECK: We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, click here to contact us! HISTORY reviews and updates its content regularly to ensure it is complete and accurate.

RELATED CONTENT

School's out for summer, but why? Explore just why kids get the summer months off and what prompted the advent of summer camp.

Explore the history of one of America's favorite summer traditions - a walk down the boardwalk - and dive into the backstory of boardwalk foods including hot dogs, ice cream, and lemonade.

Every summer, people around the world hit the beach to swim, relax, and soak up the sun, and many of them are wearing tiny two-piece swimsuits. But when did getting a tan become a thing? And how did the bikini become so many women's swimsuit of choice?

A look at the origins of the holiest day on the Christian calender.

Did summer camp save kids from factories? Learn about the unlikely history behind modern summer camps.

Discover how and when Americans celebrated Independence Day in the past. Although Benjamin Franklin thought we'd celebrate the 2nd of July; the 4th of July is closest to our hearts.