Mental Floss
The 1980s were a busy time for do-gooder musicians like Bob Geldof, who wanted to use his voice to make the world a better place with events like Live Aid. But the concert's legacy is a bit more complicated.
Kenneth Partridge|
The carmaker is raising the alarm over a defective part that can lead to accidents.
Jake Rossen|
Some old-fashioned window guards look like they have a potbelly. Discover the real reason why, as well as the history surrounding these unique grills.
Marla Mackoul|
Some U.S. states, like Hawaii, may have to deal with higher electricity bills for summer 2025 than others.
Marla Mackoul|
When it comes to ‘80s toys, wrestling figures from the WWF (now the WWE) were all the rage. Here‘s what to know about their creation and the big impact they had on pop culture.
Jake Rossen|
A household item that retails for less than $5 can provide a good first-line preventive measure against tick-borne illnesses.
Nick Keppler|
A real-life hero who infiltrated the Klan in the 1940s teamed up with a fictional one to expose their corrupting influence.
Jake Rossen|
Our Amazing Facts 2026 calendar features fun facts from all areas, while the Word Nerd 2026 calendar is especially for language lovers.
Ellen Gutoskey|
From big stone spheres to an actual mummy, amazing archaeological finds have been unearthed by people just minding their own business.
Livius Drusus|
The riddle below dates back to 1598—can you figure it out?
Paul Anthony Jones|
Drivers are pretty safe in Boise, but they might find themselves getting whiplash in Boston.
Jake Rossen|
If you’re in one of these cities, know what you’re in for before you head to the local DMV. (Plus, the cities with the best and most-improved DMVs.)
Paul Anthony Jones|
Though the 1975 original film is legendary, the ‘Jaws’ sequels occupy a weird (and somewhat complicated) place in cinema history—and here are the real reasons why.
Matthew Jackson|
Looking for a simple yet flavorful camping meal? Try this shrimp boil in foil, packed with sausage, veggies, and spices.
CaLea Johnson|
Nickname origins can be tricky—but this one is actually pretty straightforward. (And it doesn't involve pegs.)
Ellen Gutoskey|
Costco shoppers are making ice cream floats for under $3, and you can too with this clever trick.
CaLea Johnson|
Extreme heat can be dangerous—here’s how to stay safe this summer.
Jake Rossen|
We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?
Ellen Gutoskey|
The coating protected items like boots and carriage parts from wear and tear—and looked luxurious while doing so. But who invented patent leather? And does that person actually hold a patent for it?
Tim Brinkhof|
Getting that campfire smoke smell out of your clothes isn’t as hard as it might seem, thanks to these tips and tricks.
Lauren Dana|
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