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European History ‑ Stories

Explore the wars, battles, leaders, civilizations, regimes, prominent figures and major events from the continent that encompasses 2 percent of the Earth’s surface. From Stonehenge to the Great Awakening to the French Revolution to the rise and fall of Communism in Russia, see how Europe’s often tumultuous history unfolded.

When Did Humans Start Drinking Alcohol?

Evidence suggests that people were drinking beer as far back as 13,000 years ago, while distilled liquor arrived much later.

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A huge crowd of soldiers stands at attention beneath the reviewing stand at a 1936 Nazi rally in Nuremberg, Germany.

What’s the Difference Between Authoritarianism and Totalitarianism?

Both totalitarianism and authoritarianism are non‑democratic political systems, but there are some key differences between the two.

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10 Ways Shakespeare Changed the Way You Talk

The world‑famous playwright invented scores of new words and phrases. Here are 10 that have become part of the popular lexicon.

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An image from 2018 showing cannons from the San José on the seafloor.

How the San José Became the ‘Holy Grail’ of Shipwrecks

A fierce 1708 battle caused the Spanish galleon to sink—along with its $20 billion worth of gold, silver and emeralds.

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Amy Robsart and the Earl of Leicester, circa 1827.

8 Infamous Royal Scandals

These royal scandals drew public fascination and scrutiny, compromising the mystique of monarchies across Europe.

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Le Chevalier d'Éon

The French Diplomat Who Lived as Both a Man and a Woman

The Chevalier d’Éon (1728‑1810) served as a French soldier, diplomat and spy—while living both as ‘Charles’ and ‘Charlotte.’

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Examination of Viking jaw and teeth.

Vikings Had Terrible Teeth

The Vikings suffered from painful cavities and tooth abscesses. Still, their dental health was in some ways better than ours.

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The Paris Catacombs

The Dark Origins of the Paris Catacombs

Learn how sinkholes and poor sanitation led to the creation of the Paris Catacombs in the late 18th century.

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Napoleon and Joséphine: Their Tumultuous Love Story

As their letters show, Napoleon was love‑struck. Joséphine? Not so much. Yet even with affairs on both sides, a deep attachment grew—and endured.

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A black-and-white engraving of a man stretched out on the bed of a torture device

7 Famous Torture Devices, Real and Mythical

Some instruments of torture, like the rack, were real. Others were probably made up to help perpetuate the myth of the medieval ‘Dark Ages.’

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Queen Elizabeth II coronation

Queen Elizabeth II’s 1953 Coronation: Photos

On June 2, 1953, viewers around the globe watched a BBC broadcast of the coronation of 27‑year‑old Queen Elizabeth II. See highlights.

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metal detector

8 Major Discoveries Made With Metal Detectors

Armed with inexpensive tools, treasure‑hunting hobbyists the world over have made some momentous and valuable finds.

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