History

May 19, 2023

Perfectly Preserved Declaration of Independence Found Under a $4 Painting

Talk about a national treasure! Long before Nicholas Cage and his friends stole the Declaration of Independence in their hit film, a man lived out a tale of finding treasure in real life. In 1991, a man shopping at a thrift sale purchased an “ugly painting” for $4 because he liked the frame. Behind the painting, he discovered a folded-up copy of the first printing of the Declaration of Independence.

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April 23, 2023

19th-Century Shipwreck Found “Frozen in Time” at the Bottom of Lake Huron

Early in the morning on September 26, 1894, the crew of the 191-foot Ironton—a schooner barge—was in a panic. Cut loose from the steamer that had been hauling the boat and its crew through the frigid waters of Lake Huron, the Ironton was out of control. Buoyed by the wind as the crew failed to set the sails properly in the gale, the ship swung off course and collided with another steamer named Ohio.

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March 31, 2023

Italian Archeologists Created 100 Plaster Casts of Pompeii Victims Petrified in Ash

The volcanic eruption that hit Pompeii in 79 CE destroyed the bustling Roman city and covered it in ash. This ash ultimately preserved the city, which remained untouched until the 19th century, thus giving us the unique opportunity to see what an ancient Roman city looked like. But aside from preserving buildings, the ash also preserved the bodies of the 2,000 people living in Pompeii who were killed when Mount Vesuvius erupted.

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March 22, 2023

10 Fearless Women From History Who Fought for a Better Future

International Women's Day is celebrated every year on March 8 around the world. The occasion invites us to reflect on the progress made in women’s rights, encourages calls for change, and celebrates famous women from history whose courageous acts helped define our future. Whether they are scientists, activists, politicians, or explorers, women have shown time and time again that they are powerful enough to combat prejudice and change the world.

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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.