Mental Floss

BIRTHDAYS

Director Hayao Miyazaki.

Hayao Miyazaki may be known for his animated films, but his outlook on life is hardly G-rated (neither are most of his films).

Jennifer M Wood


Joshua Moore // Getty Images

Some of our favorite historical figures were born in the month of December. We couldn't possibly name them all, but here are just a handful whose lives we'll be celebrating.

Miss Cellania




Joshua Moore // Getty Images

Some of history's greatest pioneers and artists were born in the month of November. We couldn't possibly name them all, but here are just a handful whose lives we'll be celebrating.

Miss Cellania


Chloe Effron // Getty Images

September 9 is reportedly the most popular date for babies to be born, and September is the busiest month for birthdays overall. But that doesn't mean it's a month for commoners.

Miss Cellania
Getty Images

With her bright red hair, infectious laugh, and impeccable comedic timing, Lucille Ball began clowning her way to the top of the Hollywood A-list in the early 1930s and even today remains one of the most indelible figures in American comedy.

Janet Burns








Wikimedia Commons // Public Domain

You won’t find his likeness anywhere on American currency. Instead, we’ve given this founding father a linguistic tribute—thanks to one revolutionary document, his very name is now a synonym for signature.

Mark Mancini
iStock

Turning 25 this year: The World Wide Web, Nirvana's "Nevermind," The Jerry Springer Show ... and you?

Chris Higgins


iStock

The Olsen Twins, Oprah on national TV, Pixar, "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," the Intel 386, the list goes on!

Chris Higgins