Latest articles by Heather Whipps
10 of the most notorious pirates in history
The most notorious pirates wreaked havoc from China to the Caribbean. Here are 10 fearsome pirates from history.
Chimps Learned Tool Use Long Ago Without Human Help
Humans and chimps are even more alike than previously thought; chimps learned to make their own tools rather
Where Did The Piñata Originate?
This tradition was brought to the New World by the Spanish. But who brought piñatas to Spain?
Cinco de Mayo: Where Did The Piñata Originate?
This tradition was brought to the New World by the Spanish. But who brought piñatas to Spain?
The Evolution of Human Aggression
Is there evolutionary reasoning that explains our aggressive tendencies?
13 significant protests that changed the course of history
The George Floyd protests against police brutality and systemic racism follow on the heels of many other significant protests that have changed the course of history.
Why Is It Called Labor Day?
America's holiday celebrating workers originated with the labor movement.
Trump's Inauguration: Why God Plays a Role in the Swearing In
Donald Trump will place his hand on the Bible and swear an oath to serve the United States. Here's how religion made its way into the ceremony ... and the government.
The 25 most mysterious archaeological finds on Earth
These finds have stumped scientists and captured imaginations.
Nikola Tesla: Biography, Inventions & Quotes
Nikola Tesla is often called one of history’s most important inventors, one whose discoveries in the field of electricity were way ahead of his time.
Allergy Medications: Which Drugs Treat Which Symptoms
Seasonal allergies can be treated with OTC medicines, prescription drugs and natural remedies. Learn which medications address which symptoms.
The Holocaust: Facts & Remembrance
The Holocaust refers to the Nazi-sponsored murder of the Jewish population of Europe — and other groups — during World War II. The International Holocaust Remembrance Day is April 28.
Why is Friday the 13th Considered Unlucky?
Folklorists think the dread goes back at least a few centuries.
Why Do We Carve Pumpkins at Halloween?
Carving vegetables into scary faces then lighting them is an odd kind of custom that just must have interesting roots.
Why are Races Run Counterclockwise?
It's believed to be easier for righties, who make up the majority of world population, to run in a counterclockwise motion.
Where Did Chalkboards Come From?
Chalkboards, sometimes just pieces of wood painted with black, liquid slate, hit the wall in the early 19th century.
What Battle Inspired the Star Spangled Banner?
The rockets were glaring red and the bombs were bursting in air as the British relentlessly attacked.
Why Do We 'God Bless' a Sneeze?
People probably began blessing sneezes sometime in the Middle Ages as a way of protecting the soul.
Past Presidents: What Made Them Great?
Who would make a better president — a man with more than 30 years of experience in Congress or one with about six?
How the Olympics Changed the World
While the competitors in the Olympics are part of a tradition of sporting excellence, the history of the Olympics is also politically charged, often acting as a showcase for the world's squabbles.
Declaration of Independence: Summary, Text & Signers
There were 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. See an image of the document and full text, and a summary of its global impact.
