Mental Floss

LISTS

Cute, cuddly, and controversial.

For a gaming series revolving around adorable little monsters, Pokémon has had a number of run-ins with racial stereotypes, Nazi imagery, and seizure-inducing animation.

Paul Cecchini


When the Titanic sank in April 1912, its architect, Thomas Andrews, went down with it.

From the inventor who disappeared along with the lighthouse he designed to the daredevil whose contraptions vaulted him to fame then cut his life short, these are the sad stories of inventors killed by their own inventions.

Kat Long






Abenaki filmmaker and performer Alanis Obomsawin

These Indigenous politicians, activists, linguists, teachers, and artists—who work to preserve their heritage and secure civil rights—deserve to be better known.

Yesica Balderrama






Daniel Craig stars in No Time to Die (2021).

Six decades, 25 films, six actors, and billions of dollars in box office later, and we're still talking about James Bond, his literary legacy, and his big screen adventures.

Matthew Jackson


Brzozowska/iStock via Getty Images

Based on public health, personal safety, and infrastructure, these are the safest cities in the world in 2021.

Michele Debczak




Joshua Tree National Park.

Only two hours outside Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Park has always had a glamorous cachet. But it also has a fascinating history filled with Hollywood-style drama.

Mac Carey


Mando (Pedro Pascal) surrounded by Baby Yoda and the Frog Lady in from The Mandalorian.

The irresistible combination of classic Star Wars action with the added bonus of a seriously darling miniaturized Yoda-esque creature has made 'The Mandalorian' a hit.

Kinsey Gidick


nycshooter/iStock via Getty Images

If capturing lasting memories is your preferred vacation activity, consider planning a trip to one of these photogenic states across the U.S.

Michele Debczak