History

April 27, 2024

22-Foot-Long Scroll From 19th Century Features Timeline of Perceived World History Up to That Point

World history is ultimately one long story, a timeline of events rising and swelling, marching along in each country and community around the globe. But exactly how this story is told can vary based on one's contemporary perspective. For Sebastian C. Adams, this perspective was that of a white, 19th-century Christian man who wore many hats over his lifetime.

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April 20, 2024

Old Maps Used to Show California as an Island Separate From the Rest of the U.S.

California is known for many things. San Francisco cablecars, Hollywood celebrities, and the rolling vineyards of Napa Valley are among its iconic symbols. The state figures large in American culture at home and abroad, but it was once somewhat of a mystery to European explorers. In fact, throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, a strange piece of misinformation appeared on maps throughout Europe. Cartographers showed California as an island.

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April 8, 2024

Your $2 Bill Might Actually Be Worth Thousands of Dollars

When it comes to currency, what you see is usually what you get. So a $1 bill is worth $1, a $5 bill is worth $5, and so on. However, in the case of the rare $2 bill, the worth of the banknote rises with lower circulation. In fact, $2 bills from the 19th century have fetched exponentially more, as collectors will pay up to $4,500, according to auction houses such as U.S.

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March 25, 2024

Insightful Map Reveals Literal Translations of U.S. City and State Names

Do you know why the place you live is named what it’s named? Some have straightforward origins, while others leave even those who have been there for decades scratching their heads. In an effort to unravel the meaning behind state and city names across the U.S., WordTips has created a map featuring the literal translations of their names—opening a window to the history of each area.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.