Mental Floss

INVENTIONS

3D movies have been coming at you for over a century.

Condoms, 3D movies, the name Tiffany ... All of these things have been around a lot longer than you might think. In this episode of The List Show, we're breaking down our favorite deceptively old things, from synchronized swimming to Juicy Fruit gum.

Ellen Gutoskey








DEET might not exist without military research.

From bug spray to Epipens, you might be surprised to learn just how many items taking up shelf space in your home were originally developed for the front lines.

Jon Mayer






Toilets have been privy to some important events over the years.

From Elvis's near-final resting place to the porta-johns that saved a pilot's life, these are the toilets that altered world events.

Ken Ossea, Jr.






Pencils have a long evolutionary history.

French engineer Nicolas-Jacques Conté created what is considered the modern pencil, though many have since made improvements.

Tasia Bass