Did Scientists Really Reanimate the Dead?

Early driving was risky—rumble seats, built-in cigarette lighters and fire-prone cars made even short trips dangerous.

Remember when playtime meant tempting fate? From toy belts that fired speeding projectiles to high-powered pogo sticks that sent us soaring, these perilous playthings were made for kids—but their risks were anything but child’s play.

Many everyday tools—from zippers to Super Glue to computers—originated as military inventions.

From dentures that could explode at the dinner table and stiff shirt collars that could strangle us, to toxic hair implants, the pursuit of the perfect look once pushed people to surprisingly dangerous lengths.