What do Star Wars, Spiderman, The Lord of the Rings, Toy Story, and countless other movies have in common? It’s one of the longest running “inside jokes” in Hollywood and can be traced back more than 70 years…when a man was dragged underwater by an alligator. Seriously! Andy Andrews delivers this hilarious Betcha Didn’t Know. And now, lights, camera, action…scream!
History
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.
The Mason Jar
Ordinary household items are often overlooked. Curiously, the mason jar has a fascinating past dating all the way back to Emperor Napoleon. Today, you won’t believe what the famous glass company is up to, and that old jar sitting in your basement…it could be worth more than $20,000. Watch as Armon J. Newton unseals it all in this classic Betcha Didn’t Know!
Escaping Communist Romania
Have you ever wondered what you would do if you and your family were trapped in a communist country? Would you fight? Hide? Lead a revolt? Or attempt to escape… Here is the true story—told in his own words—of Doru Stefanescue and his thrilling escape from Romania and its brutal dictator, Nicolae Ceaușescu.
Aunt Sammy
Uncle Sam wants you! Most of us can picture Uncle Sam’s image in our minds. But what about Aunt Sammy? Did you even know there was an Aunt Sammy? In this classic “Betcha Didn’t Know,” Leslie Anne Tarabella tells the story of an important American lady–and why millions of people counted on her during The Great Depression and throughout World War II. Aunt Sammy was a constant presence on national radio for two decades. She received hundreds of thousands of letters. And she wasn’t even real! This is History that has been forgotten…but is still worth knowing today!
Audie Murphy
Too young to enlist, Audie Murphy falsified documents to join the Army and became a national hero. Fighting in World War II, Audie Murphy became the most decorated solider in U.S. history. Recognizable for his accomplishments, he went on to star in more than 40 movies—including playing himself in the 1955 film “To Hell and Back.” Watch and listen to this unbelievable story—with scenes from the movie of the actual Audie Murphy—and you’ll agree, “This man stands taller than John Wayne.”
More Than Rushmore?
Betcha Didn’t Know that Mt. Rushmore is not technically finished… And are you aware of its even bigger neighbor—the Crazy Horse Memorial? Watch and listen as Dr. Mark Foley guides you through the secrets of these two massive monuments. Plus you’ll hear about the hidden chamber deep inside Mt. Rushmore…and the historical documents sealed inside!
U.S. Armed Forces
There are six service branches of the United States Armed forces, but did you know they’re always listed in a specific order? Watch and listen as Monica Earley covers the founding date and motto of each branch in this fascinating Betcha Didn’t Know!
The Potato Chip
Do you love potato chips? Does it irritate you to buy what you believe to be a FULL bag of potato chips, only to find out when you open it that half the bag is…MISSING? Did you know potato chips were created by…an irritated chef? Grab a [half] bag and listen up! In this Betcha Didn’t Know with Armon Newton, you’re going to learn everything you never knew you needed to know about the potato chip!
George Washington’s Inaugural Address
It was April of 1789… and the first ever inaugural address by an American president was underway. Among other phrases that seem indecipherable to us today, George Washington referred to the “vicissitudes incident to life.” But what does THAT mean? Watch and listen as Dr. Mark Foley unpacks the legendary wisdom of the nation’s chief civil servant, explains what Washington was saying, and boils it all down to a very simple (but sometimes hard to follow) rule. Enjoy the latest episode of: In Other Words!
1964 Sears Catalog
At 1,715 pages, the Sears catalog had everything the families of 1964 needed for style, comfort and entertainment. Grab a seat by the coffee table, and flip through the past with Leslie Anne Tarabella.
The Official U.S. Flag Code
Monica Early, the former Chief of Protocol for Air Force Special Operations is here to set the record straight on “do’s and don’ts” with the American flag.
With Elvis Presley
Have you ever wanted the inside scoop or wished you could be a fly on the wall? Well, here’s your chance! Listen as recording artist T.G. Sheppard relates one of the most fascinating life stories of all time: I Was There…with Elvis Presley!