BIG QUESTIONS

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?

Anchovies or sardines? We break down how these small fish differ in looks, taste, and popular preparation methods.

The tool name that’s long been the laughingstock of adolescents has a perfectly sensible explanation.

Swimming in lakes (or any wild water) has its risks. When in doubt, check local advisories and trust your senses. And if the water looks or smells off, you might have better luck sticking to land.

The salt in the ocean comes from two main sources: rocks on land and vents at the bottom of the sea.

Let’s explore the origins of America's most disrespected lettuce.

Italian ice has a sorbet-like texture, but these frozen desserts really aren’t the same thing. So, where does this summer treat really come from—and more importantly, is it even from Italy in the first place?

Inside the complicated compromise that created the District of Columbia and the City of Washington—which are kind of the same thing.

The shower creates the perfect conditions for a creative flash, coaxing out your inner genius.

The Arnold Schwarzenegger–starring Netflix series takes its title from World War II military slang. Here’s what 'fubar' means.

Dive into the history of soccer balls, including how they evolved from their earliest form, when they were made out of pig bladders, into the hexagon design we see today.

Here’s the invisible etymology that turned Johns into Jacks.