Dive into the past with unique videos that highlight key historical events, figures, and moments. From ancient civilizations to modern history, these resources are perfect for stimulating interest and discussions in your classroom.
Betcha didn’t know that music can do some pretty unexpected things! Some say it helps plants grow, while others believe it can boost brainpower. But did you know classical music has a history full of strange surprises? From lost masterpieces to unbelievable mix-ups, the stories behind some of history’s greatest composers might just leave you speechless. Explore the wild, wonderful, and sometimes bizarre world of classical music in this episode of Betcha Didn’t Know!
Plunge into history with Emily Isbell as we uncover the secrets of the world’s most fascinating shipwrecks! From a 2,400-year-old Greek ship preserved in the depths of the Black Sea to the incredible story of a man surviving three days in an air pocket at the bottom of the ocean, these stories are waves of wonder. Did you know the Britannic, Titanic’s sister ship, was even bigger? Time to explore treasures, tragedy, and triumph beneath the waves…only on Betcha Didn’t Know!
Betcha Didn’t Know…the Gestapo called a one-legged American socialite “the most dangerous Allied spy” of World War II! Virginia Hall, nicknamed “Artemis,” defied the odds. She also defied the Nazis by coordinating French Resistance efforts with an iron will and clever disguises. With her prosthetic leg, she evaded capture, radioed crucial intel, and led daring operations that helped liberate France. From scaling the Pyrenees to earning the Distinguished Service Cross, her bravery was unmatched. Think you know “fearless?” Meet Virginia Hall!
Betcha Didn’t Know the first bridge over the Niagara River started with… a kite contest! In 1847, a 16-year-old boy flew his kite across the 700-foot Niagara Gorge, creating the first connection for bridge construction. This clever feat led to a suspension bridge that served travelers for decades! Bonus fact: Daredevil Charles Blondin later tightroped over the river—blindfolded, backward, and even with his manager on his back. Niagara Falls isn’t just stunning; it’s full of wild history!
Betcha didn’t know some animals serve their countries better than most humans! From a polar bear promoted for ambassadorial excellence to a knighted penguin (yes, really), and even a misbehaving goat who head-butted his way to demotion—these military mascots have colorful careers. And let’s not forget the mule accused of homicide! Join Jimmy Yeary as he shares tales of courageous, quirky, and sometimes chaotic animals who’ve worn military ranks with honor…or hilarity. Betcha Didn’t Know loyalty could look like this!
Is spaghetti singular or plural? Surprise—it’s plural! Dive into the fascinating (and delicious) world of pasta with Emily Isbell as she uncovers the meanings behind quirky pasta names (like strozzapreti, aka “priest stranglers”), the four main pasta categories, and the ultimate sauce pairings. Plus, discover record-breaking feats like an 11,000-pound lasagna and a hilariously “serious” BBC documentary about…spaghetti trees? Don’t noodle around—this Betcha Didn’t Know is pasta-tively fun!
Betcha Didn’t Know that the internet you’re using right now began as a military project to survive nuclear war! Armon Newton uncovers how a Cold War-era communication experiment grew into the global phenomenon we know today. From the first email (sent between two side-by-side computers!) to the invention of the World Wide Web, this episode will have you marveling at the internet’s evolution—complete with coffee pot webcams, dial-up screeches, and even a near miss with the name “Cadaver.”
Betcha didn’t know that the most celebrated double agent in WWII went by the code name ‘Garbo’ and worked both sides so well, he was awarded medals from both the British and the Nazis! Jeff Allen takes you on a hilarious journey into the world of Juan Pujol García—a man who convinced Hitler’s regime he had a full spy network when, in reality, his “agents” were all in his head! Buckle up for one of the greatest cons in history… one that fooled even the Führer!
Join Andy Andrews as he reveals the fascinating history of paint, from egg-based “illuminations” in medieval manuscripts to Tyrian Purple—a dye so rare it was reserved for emperors! Discover how crushed beetles, tree resin, and sea mollusks created iconic colors, why the White House wasn’t always white, and the story behind the Golden Gate Bridge’s “International Orange.” This Betcha Didn’t Know brushes up on the colorful evolution of paint through the ages!
Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, was an editorial cartoonist from 1941 to 1943, creating over 400 political cartoons during World War II. These cartoons criticized America’s enemies, encouraged patriotism, and addressed issues like frugality, blackouts, and recruitment. Now part of Wisdom Harbour’s Forgotten History exhibit, these original cartoons are displayed to spark thought and discussion about their powerful messages.
1942 was the year of the first 4th of July after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour. That month, every magazine in the United States featured the American flag on its cover. Can you imagine what it must have been like to live in a society where most everyone agreed on the direction of our country? Citizens of the world were fighting the Axis powers—Germany, Italy, and Japan—and it seemed, everyone did their part. Books, television, movies….all joined the fight to win the hearts and minds of good people the world over. Amazingly, that effort included cartoons for children. Today, Wisdom Harbour looks back in time to some works most have forgotten. Enjoy these five examples—all from Walt Disney—as Mickey, Minnie, and Donald work to further the effort to win World War II.
Betcha Didn’t Know the first motion picture was just two seconds long! Join Andy Andrews as he takes you on a journey through fascinating film trivia, from Louis Le Prince’s groundbreaking 1888 short to today’s cinematic masterpieces. Discover how a barista’s mistake led to a Star Wars planet name, how Chewbacca was inspired by a dog, and how Toto from “The Wizard of Oz” earned more than some actors! Packed with surprising stories, this episode shines a spotlight on the hidden tales of film history!