History

April 20, 2024

Old Maps Used to Show California as an Island Separate From the Rest of the U.S.

California is known for many things. San Francisco cablecars, Hollywood celebrities, and the rolling vineyards of Napa Valley are among its iconic symbols. The state figures large in American culture at home and abroad, but it was once somewhat of a mystery to European explorers. In fact, throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, a strange piece of misinformation appeared on maps throughout Europe. Cartographers showed California as an island.

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April 8, 2024

Your $2 Bill Might Actually Be Worth Thousands of Dollars

When it comes to currency, what you see is usually what you get. So a $1 bill is worth $1, a $5 bill is worth $5, and so on. However, in the case of the rare $2 bill, the worth of the banknote rises with lower circulation. In fact, $2 bills from the 19th century have fetched exponentially more, as collectors will pay up to $4,500, according to auction houses such as U.S.

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March 25, 2024

Insightful Map Reveals Literal Translations of U.S. City and State Names

Do you know why the place you live is named what it’s named? Some have straightforward origins, while others leave even those who have been there for decades scratching their heads. In an effort to unravel the meaning behind state and city names across the U.S., WordTips has created a map featuring the literal translations of their names—opening a window to the history of each area.

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March 18, 2024

5 Trailblazers Will Be Featured on U.S. Quarters To Celebrate Women Throughout History

There are two sides to every coin, and this year the United States Mint will continue to celebrate various female figures throughout history by placing them on one side of the U.S. quarter. From Civil War era surgeon Dr. Mary Edwards Walker to salsa sensation Celia Cruz, this year will highlight impactful representations of women who have played significant roles in enacting positive change. These carefully designed portraits that depict five different women on U.S.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.