How Mr. Coffee Made Coffee Manly

Mr. Coffee, the first electric-drip coffee machine for home use, debuted in 1972, forever changing the way Americans made coffee.
Stiff clubmoss (Lycopodium annotinum) in summer

The Many Unexpected Jobs of the Clubmoss Spore

The first working internal combustion machine debuted in 1807, powered by lycopodium powder, which is made of explosive plant spores.
currency

How Political Events Change Currency Value

What causes shifts in currency after a political event is, essentially, human expectations.
Talladega College

The Historical Need for Black Colleges

Historically black colleges and universities have also been on the forefront of fighting for desegregation.
Twilight book

Fanfic As Academic Discipline

Fanfic is thought to have been in existence since at least the 1920s.
Tehran, Iran

A Fragile Balance in Iran

While US sanctions on Iran reinforced the importance of domestic trade and production, Rafsanjani's policies ultimately empowered the middle class.
Andrew Johnson impeachment trial

Impeaching History

Got impeachment? Not much. In American history, there have only been a total of 19 impeachment trials in the U.S. Senate.
Cheetah and cubs

Where Have All the Cheetahs Gone?

Disturbing news for cheetahs: a recent census reveals that populations have plummeted.
Wine corks

The Cork Oak Forests Want You to Drink More Wine

Corks come from a tree that is part of a unique ecosystem dependent on cork harvest for its survival.
Showgirl

The Man Who Invented the Showgirl

Showgirl. Just the word calls to mind fabulous plumes, spangled sequins, and a distinctive strut. But where does ...