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Preview thumbnail for National Treasure: Amelia Earhart Designed a New Future for Women

National Treasure: Amelia Earhart Designed a New Future for Women

In 1932, Amelia Earhart made history as the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, cementing her legacy in aviation. But her influence extended far beyond the cockpit.

Preview thumbnail for National Treasure: Revealing the Stunning 2.33-Carat Winston Red Diamond

National Treasure: Revealing the Stunning 2.33-Carat Winston Red Diamond

The Winston Red Diamond, one of the rarest gems in the world, is a stunning 2.33-carat red diamond displayed at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.

Preview thumbnail for Who Was the Real Cleopatra?

Who Was the Real Cleopatra?

Cleopatra was the last ruler of ancient Egypt, famous for her sharp mind and political savvy. She navigated tumultuous family rivalries and formed powerful alliances with Julius Caesar and Mark …

Preview thumbnail for 8 Mind-Boggling Facts About the Octopus

8 Mind-Boggling Facts About the Octopus

Did you know octopuses are highly intelligent animals with the ability to problem-solve complex puzzles – and even change color? They have three hearts and blue blood, helping them survive …

Preview thumbnail for Fact or Fiction? The Legend of the QWERTY Keyboard

Fact or Fiction? The Legend of the QWERTY Keyboard

The QWERTY keyboard was invented by Christopher Latham Sholes in the 1870s – and has stayed around ever since.

Preview thumbnail for What Does a Cowboy Look Like?

What Does a Cowboy Look Like?

The legend of the cowboy—celebrated in literature and film—has become central to the history of the American West. This romanticized image often overlooks the rich diversity that shaped cowboy culture.

Preview thumbnail for The Gory Origins of Valentine's Day

The Gory Origins of Valentine’s Day

Typically, Valentine’s Day conjures up images of truffles and teddy bears - all wrapped in a heart-shaped bow. Is this holiday really a day about love? Or…death?

Preview thumbnail for What Is an Aurora?

What Is an Aurora?

Auroras emit swirling hues in the sky, mesmerizing spectators with their bands of color. Different hues come from different gases—for instance, oxygen makes green, nitrogen makes purple.

Preview thumbnail for Behold the World's Smallest Monkey: The Pygmy Marmoset

Behold the World’s Smallest Monkey: The Pygmy Marmoset

From their adorable facial expressions to their remarkable social skills, you’ll fall in love with pygmy marmosets.

Preview thumbnail for National Treasure: The Fearsome Science Behind the T. rex, the King of the Dinosaurs

National Treasure: The Fearsome Science Behind the T. rex, the King of the Dinosaurs

Known for its massive size, powerful jaws and razor-sharp teeth, the Tyrannosaurus rex was one of the most fearsome predators of the Late Cretaceous period.

Preview thumbnail for National Treasure: The Giant Panda Steals Hearts (and Bamboo) at the National Zoo

National Treasure: The Giant Panda Steals Hearts (and Bamboo) at the National Zoo

Known for their distinctive black-and-white fur, giant pandas are one of the most recognizable and beloved creatures in the world.

Preview thumbnail for 5 Record-Breaking Bird Migrations

5 Record-Breaking Bird Migrations

Birds: nature’s ultimate travelers, undertaking jaw-dropping migrations that push the boundaries of endurance, speed and altitude.

Preview thumbnail for National Treasure: The Mold Behind the Miracle of Penicillin

National Treasure: The Mold Behind the Miracle of Penicillin

Discover the fascinating story of penicillin, an antibiotic that revolutionized the medical world.

Preview thumbnail for The Mysterious Death of Edgar Allan Poe May Never Be Solved

The Mysterious Death of Edgar Allan Poe May Never Be Solved

Uncover the dark and curious truth behind the death of one of America’s most beloved authors, Edgar Allan Poe. For centuries, the circumstances surrounding his death have remained shrouded in …

Preview thumbnail for Ouija Board: The Mysterious Origins of a Cultural Obsession

Ouija Board: The Mysterious Origins of a Cultural Obsession

The Ouija board might seem like a simple game that sparks spooky childhood memories, but have you ever pondered its mysterious history? Even more importantly, does it actually…work? Uncover the …

Preview thumbnail for National Treasure: Sing a Song With Ella Jenkins, the Beloved First Lady of Children’s Music

National Treasure: Sing a Song With Ella Jenkins, the Beloved First Lady of Children’s Music

Discover how Ella Jenkins’ joyful songs and storytelling have inspired generations of young listeners, while her commitment to advocacy has profoundly affected the world of music and beyond.

Preview thumbnail for National Treasure: The Hirshhorn Is Brutalism's Boldest Donut

National Treasure: The Hirshhorn Is Brutalism’s Boldest Donut

The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden is renowned for its striking architecture and impressive collection of contemporary art. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about …

Preview thumbnail for 10 Fun Facts About Bioluminescence

10 Fun Facts About Bioluminescence

Discover the incredible ways in which living organisms illuminate the darkness of the deep sea, lush forests, and even our own backyards.

Preview thumbnail for The Future of the Smithsonian

The Future of the Smithsonian

We asked visitors to the National Mall what they thought should be in the Smithsonian collections in 2050. The consensus? Lady Gaga and much more…

Preview thumbnail for Recordings made by Alexander Graham Bell Heard for the First Time

Recordings made by Alexander Graham Bell Heard for the First Time

http://j.mp/z7WXi2 Researchers and scientists work together to find a way to play recordings made by the studio of inventor Alexander Graham Bell

Preview thumbnail for Behind the Scenes Photo Shoot With The Emancipation Proclamation

Behind the Scenes Photo Shoot With The Emancipation Proclamation

Document Deep Dive: http://j.mp/SUXoTF How the Emancipation Proclamation Came to Be Signed: http://j.mp/12q5SE0 What did it take to pull together a draft of the Emancipation Proclamation, Lincoln’s inkwell and his …

Preview thumbnail for The Dark and Deadly History of the Plague

The Dark and Deadly History of the Plague

What caused the Plague? And what methods did people use to combat the spread? Learn about its origins, past outbreaks (including the Black Death), and the long-lasting impact of its …

Preview thumbnail for National Treasure: The History of the Lie Detector

National Treasure: The History of the Lie Detector

Have you ever wondered whether lie detectors actually…work? Join us as we delve into the history and science behind these devices - from how they measure “deception” to the controversies …

Preview thumbnail for What 'Bridgerton' Gets Right About the Regency Era

What ‘Bridgerton’ Gets Right About the Regency Era

From gender roles to etiquette to fashion, step back in time to learn more about the real lives of the Regency women who inspired ‘Bridgerton.’

Preview thumbnail for The Best Small Towns to Celebrate Summer

The Best Small Towns to Celebrate Summer

From charming streets to stunning scenery, consider Hawaii, Idaho, Massachusetts, or New York for your next summer adventure.

Preview thumbnail for Don't Call the Blobfish Ugly

Don’t Call the Blobfish Ugly

From its unique appearance to its habitat and behavior, here’s everything you need to know about this mysterious deep-sea creature. Dive into the world of the blobfish and discover why …

Preview thumbnail for 7 Weirdest Bird Calls

7 Weirdest Bird Calls

When it comes to bird calls, every chirp, trill, and warble tells a story. From eerie screeches to melodic tunes, these distinctive sounds from nature are sure to surprise you.

Preview thumbnail for The Rise and Fall of the Aztec Civilization

The Rise and Fall of the Aztec Civilization

Explore the history of the Aztecs, their incredible achievements in art, architecture, and warfare, as well as the factors that led to their decline. —- For more videos from Smithsonian …

Preview thumbnail for 10 Fascinating Facts About Owls

10 Fascinating Facts About Owls

From their jaw-dropping hunting abilities to their unique physicality, owls are truly captivating creatures. Join us as we delve into the world of these mysterious birds of prey.

Preview thumbnail for What Is a Solar Eclipse?

What Is a Solar Eclipse?

Have you ever wondered what a solar eclipse is? Join us as we explore the science behind this awe-inspiring celestial event. —- For more videos from Smithsonian Magazine: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/videos/ Digital …

Preview thumbnail for Announcing the Winners of the 21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest

Announcing the Winners of the 21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest

After reviewing more than 30,000 photos, the editors of Smithsonian magazine are proud to announce the winning submissions. Learn more about the finalists and winners of 2024 here: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/see-winners-21st-annual-smithsonian-magazine-photo-contest-180984001/. —- …

Preview thumbnail for The Best Small Towns to Celebrate Spring

The Best Small Towns to Celebrate Spring

This spring, take a break and smell the flowers in New Mexico, Kansas, California and New Jersey.

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