Stories

In 2012, an artifact resembling a mobile phone was reportedly unearthed in Fuschl am See, Austria. Dubbed “Babylonokia,” the clay tablet features markings resembling a keypad and cuneiform writing, leading to widespread intrigue and speculation about its origins.

The Darvaza gas crater, located in Turkmenistan’s Karakum Desert, has a mysterious origin. Contrary to popular belief, there is no confirmed account of its creation. Some suggest Soviet engineers intentionally ignited the gas in the 1970s to prevent toxic emissions, but others believe it started burning only in the 1980s.

Hegra, also known as Al-Hijr or Mada’in Saleh, was a prominent city of the Nabataean Kingdom. Located in modern-day Saudi Arabia, it flourished in the first century CE, serving as a key trading hub along ancient caravan routes.

On January 18, 1958, Willie O’Ree, a forward from Fredericton, New Brunswick, became the first Black player in the NHL. The Boston Bruins called him up for a game against the Montreal Canadiens, marking his debut on one of hockey’s biggest stages.

In 1878, Ned Kelly and his gang were accused of a police murder in Victoria, Australia. Fleeing into the bush, they evaded capture and launched daring robberies, including raids on banks in Euroa and Jerilderie, where Kelly dictated a manifesto outlining his grievances.

In 1943, B.F. Skinner, a renowned American psychologist, proposed an unconventional idea to aid World War II efforts: training pigeons to guide missiles. Funded by the National Defense Research Committee, Project Orcon (short for “organic control”) sought to use pigeons’ pecking skills to steer explosive payloads.

During U.S. Prohibition (1920–1933), the tiny French islands of St. Pierre and Miquelon, near Newfoundland, became a major smuggling hub. Their “wet” status as French territories allowed them to legally import alcohol, which was then smuggled to the U.S. via rumrunners.

On January 23, 1968, North Korea captured the USS Pueblo, a lightly armed U.S. Navy intelligence vessel, patrolling international waters near the Korean Peninsula. The ship and its 83-member crew, caught by surprise, had minimal defenses. One sailor was killed in the attack, and the remaining crew was taken prisoner.

Crinkle crankle walls, also known as serpentine walls, are distinctive wavy brick walls found in England, particularly in Suffolk. These walls feature alternating curves, creating a visually striking and efficient design.

In late July 1985, the New Orleans Recreation Department hosted a party at one of its pools to celebrate a successful summer without any drowning incidents. Approximately 200 people attended, over half of whom were certified lifeguards. Four lifeguards were on duty during the event.