Articles Index

The History of Silly Putty
Though invented in 1943 by James Wright, Silly Putty was not placed onto the market as a toy until Peter Hodgson packaged the goo in plastic eggs and sold them in 1950. Learn the history of the accidental invention and surprising marketing of one of the most popular toys of the 20th century.

The First Credit Card
Though the concept of credit has existed longer even than money, it wasn't until 1950 that the modern credit card was invented.

The Curse of the Hope Diamond
According to the legend, a curse befell the large, blue diamond when it was stolen from an idol in India - a curse that foretold bad luck and death not only for the owner of the diamond but for all who touched it. Is there really a curse? Where has the Hope diamond been? Why was such a valuable gem donated to the Smithsonian?