David loved athletics of all kinds, but it was football and baseball that really drove him. Later in life, he would be remembered for other things. In those formative years, however, it […]
When History Hung on a Minor League Baseball Career
Triboulet: The Jester Who Was Condemned — and Saved — By His Wits
Nicolas Ferrial, also known as Le Févrial or Triboulet (1479–1536), was one of the most celebrated jesters in history. He served two French kings: Louis XII and Francis I. He had all […]
Steve McQueen’s Less-Than-Cool Beginning with the Marines
Steve McQueen (1930-1980) may have been known as the “King of Cool” during the height of his Hollywood popularity, but before that, he had a less than stellar career with the U.S. […]
A Tale of Two Boys and Their Fathers’ Creations That Ruined Their Lives
Chris and Denny might as well have been brothers. They had so much in common — particularly their conflict with their fathers — that it almost looks as if they had the […]
Edison’s Lesson of the Unwanted Invention
For any inventor, receiving his or her first patent is a momentous occasion. It is proof from the highest levels of government that someone recognizes the value of the distinct innovation born […]
How Did An Upstart Teenager Transform a Comic Book Legend?
It sounds like the plot to a comic book story. A teenage kid takes a shot at something no one ever expected to remember. He messes around with something way bigger than […]
Supreme Court Justice Job Opening: Law Degree Optional
If you have ever wanted a top-level job in the federal government but feel that you don’t have the necessary education or experience, look no further than a spot on the Supreme […]
The Coolidge Principle of Family Privilege
President Calvin Coolidge was known for his strong work ethic and his disdain of expectations of privilege. His son, Calvin, Jr., clearly understood his father’s philosophy. On the morning after his father […]
Is it Easier to Get Into Harvard or Walmart?
Students who are accepted to Harvard University may pat themselves on the back for overcoming the odds. Only 4.5 percent of all applications are accepted. Workers at Walmart may actually have more […]
Can You Solve Theodore Roosevelt’s Favorite Brain Teaser?
Theodore Roosevelt loved anything that challenged the body or the mind. He had a fondness for brain teasers. This one was his favorite: I talk, but I do not speak my mind.I […]
Meet the Millionaire and the Wicked Witch who was his Schoolteacher
Many of us had a teacher whom we suspected was a witch. In the case of Jim Backus, it was very nearly true.
Picasso’s Strategy for Pursuing Greatness
Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) was never accused of false modesty. He once said, “My mother said to me ‘If you are a soldier you will become a general. If you are a monk […]
Creative Ways to Increase Student Loan Debt: the Weirdest College Courses Available
With the average annual cost of a college education being in excess of $25,000, schools are eager to give plenty of opportunities for students to spend that money. Traditional college degrees in […]
A Good Housekeeper Is Worth Her Weight in … Disney Stock
By all accounts, Thelma Pearl Howard was a woman of modest means. She died on June 10, 1994, just 16 days short of her 80th birthday. Her closest friends and family thought […]
Politics: Benefits for Success or Disgrace
“Politics is not a bad profession. If you succeed there are many rewards, if you disgrace yourself you can always write a book.” — Ronald Reagan Read more fun facts and stories […]
Commonplace Fun Facts 