Spanning multiple genres, music history, and iconic artists, these facts will educate, surprise, and wow music fans. Many of these questions make for great music trivia which you can test on your friends and family. So, grab your headphones, tune in, and embark on an unforgettable exploration of captivating facts about music.

100 Weird and Wonderful Facts About Music

1. Despite being one of the biggest bands in the world, the Beatles couldn’t read music. Paul McCartney revealed this nugget during a chat with 60 Minutes in 2018.
2. Shakira is the first person to have more than 100 million likes on Facebook.
3. A study by a University of Sydney professor found that musicians have shorter lifespans than the average human.
4. Mozart sold more CDs than Beyonce in 2016. The reason being Universal released a 200 CD set of Mozart’s music to celebrate the 225th anniversary of his death.
5. The largest-performing rock band as listed by Guinness World Records is the Beijing Contemporary Music Academy. Consisting of 953 people, the band played together in Tianjin, China on June 16, 2016.
6. Studies have found singing in a group is good for your health and puts people in a good mood.
7. Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield is the first person to record an album in space. Space Sessions: Songs From a Tin Can is available to stream on Spotify and includes Hadfield’s cover of David Bowie’s “Space Oddity,” which is the first song ever recorded in space.
8. A 2014 study found that not everyone likes music, with 5% of participants having no emotional connection to music. Poor souls.
9. Maroon 5 was originally called Kara’s Flowers.
10. Jimi Hendrix played his guitar upside down. As a left-hander, instead of getting a left-handed guitar, Jimi Hendrix just flipped his right-hand guitar upside down.
11. Whitney Houston’s biggest hit, “I Will Always Love You,” is actually a cover written by country music great Dolly Parton.
12. Classical music fans and heavy metal fans actually have a lot in common according to a 2008 study.
13. “Jingle Bells” is meant to be a song sung at Thanksgiving and not Christmas. Written by James Lord Pierpont and released in 1857, the original theme of the song was about a man making his way through the snow to Thanksgiving, but the lyrics got changed over time and it transformed into a Christmas song.
14. Music helps plants grow faster. A 2014 study discovered classic music aided in the growth of plants.
15. The original title of Queen’s monster hit, “Bohemian Rhapsody,” was actually “Mongolian Rhapsody,” according to an article published in The New York Times.
16. Katy Perry is the first person to have more than 100 million followers on Twitter.
17. Eminem’s “Rap God” is officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the hit song with the most words. Eminem spits 1,560 words across six minutes and four seconds, which equates to 4.28 words per second.
18. Finland has the most metal bands per capita, with 53.5 metal bands per 100,000 people.
19. Rod Stewart held the largest-ever free concert. According to Guinness World Records, around 4.2 million people showed up for his New Year’s Eve concert on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 1994.
20. Michael Jackson’s favorite Disney cartoon character was Pinocchio.
21. Beyonce has the most Grammy Award wins of all time, having collected 32 trophies.
22. The Hooked on Music project found the Spice Girls “Wannabe” the catchiest song ever released.
23. The British Navy once used Britney Spears’ songs to scare away Somali pirates.
24. “Seikilos Epitaph,” also known as “Hurrian Hymn No. 6,” is considered the oldest composition in the world.
25. The 60,000-year-old Neanderthal flute is the oldest instrument in the world.
26. The world’s most expensive instrument is the MacDonald Stradivarius Viola, which has a price tag of a whopping $45,000,000.
27. Daddy Yankee is the first Latin artist to claim the number-one spot on Spotify thanks to his song “Despacito.”
28. A violin is made up of 70 different pieces of wood.
29. Bob Marley was awarded the United Nations Peace Medal of the Third World in 1978.
30. The world’s longest concert went for 437 hours, 54 minutes, and 40 seconds and combined a host of different artists and musicians.
31. “Happy Birthday” is the most profitable song of all time, bringing in around $2 million every year.
32. The Beatles are the biggest-selling artists of all time with over 600 million record sales.
33. The term “pop music” first became widely used in the 1950s as a way to describe popular music in the charts.
34. Listening to classical music is believed to boost brain powers, with a 2001 study finding children who listened to ten minutes of Mozart performed better in class than those who didn’t listen.
35. Napalm Death holds the Guinness World Record for the shortest song ever recorded. Their track, “You Suffer,” is 1.316 seconds long and comes from the grindcore band’s debut album Scum.
36. Barry Manilow’s famous hit “I Write the Songs” was actually written by Bruce Johnston.
37. Metallica is the first and only band to have played on all seven continents.
38. The “Lady Blunt” Stradivarius violin is the most expensive musical instrument sold at auction, fetching $15.9 million in 2011.
39. Aretha Franklin was the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
40. There are just eight notes in music.
41. A French study found that loud music makes people drink more.
42. The Offspring’s first drummer, James Lilja, left the band to attend medical school, eventually going on to become a gynecologist.
43. Michael Jackson attempted to buy Marvel Comics during the 90s.
44. August 24 is also known as International Strange Music Day.
45. Listening to music causes cows to produce more milk according to a 2001 study.
46. Karaoke comes from the Japanese words karappo; meaning empty, and okesutura; meaning orchestra, translating to “empty orchestra.”
47. The Simpsons “Do the Bartman” song was written by Michael Jackson.
48. Billie Holiday was Billy Crystal’s babysitter.
49. Nashville is known as the Home of Country Music.
50. Julie Andrews learned to play the guitar for The Sound of Music.
51. Prince played 27 instruments on his debut album For You.
52. While struggling to make an impact with his band Guns N’ Roses, Axel Rose took part in a scientific study that involved smoking cigarettes. He was joined by bandmate Izzy Stradlin, with the duo paid $8 an hour.
53. British singer Katie Melua holds the world record for the deepest underwater concert.
54. The Janet Jackson Super Bowl incident inspired the creation of YouTube.
55. The Beyonce song “Irreplaceable” was actually written by Ne-Yo and envisioned as a country song, but Beyonce liked it so much and turned it into an R&B banger.
56. Thriller by Michael Jackson is the most-selling album of all time.
57. ABBA take their name from the four band members; Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad.
58. The Spice Girls didn’t get to pick their nicknames. It was the magazine Top of the Pops that first gave each of the girls a name, which quickly stuck. The group consists of Victoria Beckham, aka “Posh Spice;” Melanie Brown, aka “Scary Spice;” Emma Bunton, aka “Baby Spice;” Geri Horner, aka “Ginger Spice;” and Melanie Chisholm, aka “Sporty Spice.”
59. Dr. Dre and Warren G are stepbrothers.
60. Leo Fender, a founder of Fender Guitars, couldn’t actually play the guitar himself.
61. Japan has the shortest national anthem in the world with just four lines.
62. Opera singer Leonard Warren died at the age of 40 while singing on stage. Erriely, the final words he sang were, “to die, a momentous thing.”
63. The Greek national anthem contains 158 verses.

Some of the numbers feature funny messages from world-famous characters while others are random numbers that make for a great fake number to give to that one person that won’t leave you alone. There’s no better way to turn an annoying person down than with one of these random numbers.

Plus, many of these funny random numbers offer practical advice in a funny and entertaining manner. Other numbers have a silly message for a good laugh and then there are those numbers that are so odd you just have to call to find out what is said. So check them out below and see what type of response you get.

16 Random Numbers To Call When You’re Bored

1. Santa’s Workshop: 1-603-413-4124 

Thousands of kids write letters to Santa Claus yearly at his workshop at the North Pole. Luckily, kids don’t have to wait until Christmas to talk to the big guy. Now they can pick up the phone, dial 1-603-413-4124, and connect to Santa’s workshop.

Ring this number and you will be met with an automated message that will give the little ones some entertain. This number also works as a great way to prank someone. 

2. Hogwarts Admissions: 605-475-6961 

Think you got what it takes to cast spells, wear an invisibility cloak, and defeat Lord Voldemort? The Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry might be for you.

The automated message provides enrollment information and directions to the nine and three-quarters platform to catch the next train to Hogwarts. Give the Hogwarts admissions a call at 605-475-6961. Harry Potter fans will love calling this number. 

3. Outsource Friendship: 605–475–6966 

Nowadays it’s common for developed nations to outsource specific jobs like customer service operators to other countries. You can do the same by outsourcing one of your more stressful friendships.

Have a friend that calls you with every problem? Are they constantly breaking up with their significant other and then spilling their guts to you? Have your friend call 605-475-6966 to annoy them and get them off your back.

4. The Rejection Hotline: (605)–475–6968 

Some people can’t take a hint. Perhaps a guy is pestering a girl with her friends at a bar. Girls often employ a fake number to get them to leave. Take it a step further and give them the rejection hotline number.

The automated message is straightforward and blunt. It starts with “Please take the hint and accept the fact that you’re rejected.” Now that’s how you turn someone down.

5. Mary Sue Rejection Hotline: 646-926-6614 

Unsurprisingly, the rejection hotline might not get the job done. Some guys need help to distinguish between creeping someone out and playing hard to get. Therefore, try the Mary Sue rejection hotline at 646-926-6614.

The automated voice sends a clear message: “Oh, hello there. If you hear this message, you have made a woman feel unsafe and disrespected. Please learn to take no for an answer and respect women’s emotional and physical autonomy.”

6. Divorce Hotline: (605)–475–6960 

Calling the divorce hotline is the perfect prank for a friend about to get married or who has just tied the knot. It’s a funny and harmless prank that’s good for a laugh.

It even features a hilarious automated message with many hilarious lines, such as “Are you tired of constant nagging?” “Do you find yourself apologizing for things you haven’t done?, and “You may want to consider divorce.” 

7. Stop Complaining: 605–475–6973 

We all have that one friend that won’t stop complaining. They’re constantly upset about something and need to air their grievances, just like Frank Costanza in Seinfeld.

If outsourcing the friendship doesn’t work, have them call the stop complaining hotline at 605-475-6973. It’s a funny prank that’ll make them laugh and make a point about their non-stop complaints. 

8. Sobriety Test Hotline: 605–475–6958 

Can’t tell if you’re drunk, need a laugh, or both? The sobriety test hotline is good for a laugh if you’re drunk or not. Call the sobriety test hotline at 605-475-6958 to test your sobriety. The automated service will ask you a series of questions to determine how drunk you are.

9. Keep an Idiot Entertained: 401-285-2079 

Everyone has an epiphany when they realize their best friend, relative, or significant other is, in fact, an idiot. Of course, families still love that annoying and unrelenting idiot.

There’s a simple way to get them to leave you alone. Have them call 401-285-2079 to keep that idiot entertained for hours. While it’s a funny prank and a good laugh, the idiot will learn their lesson. 

10. The Loser Line: (206) 569-5829 

The loser line is the ultimate prank. In this case, the prankster gets to record the message themselves. Thus, when you give the fake number to the target, they’ll hear your voice on the other line telling them they’re a loser. There’s no way to go wrong with the loser line. 

11. It Could Always Suck More: 605–475–6964 

The world is full of complainers who don’t know how well they got it. Some people are really lucky but still find something to complain about. Show them how great their life is by having them call the “It Could Always Suck More” hotline at 605-475-6964. The hotline is a reality check for those constant complainers. 

12. Harvard Sentences: 858-651-5050 

Call Harvard Sentences when your boredom reaches its peak. It’s a collection of 720 sample phrases for testing telephone systems, cellular devices, and voice-over IP. The interesting samples are phonetically balanced, providing a ton of entertainment. 

13. Captain America’s Phone Number: 678 136 7092

In the classic film, Avengers: Infinity War, Tony Stark contemplates phoning his old friend Captain America. While he doesn’t get the chance to call, Cap’s number flashes across the screen, meaning everyone else can call him.

Viewers and fans could call up Captain America briefly to hear his interesting voice message. Sadly, the number is disconnected since Captain America went back in time to be with Peggy Carter. 

14. Better Call Saul: 505–503–4455 

The critically acclaimed series Better Call Saul revolved around Saul Goodman and his quest to be a better lawyer. Like any good lawyer, Saul’s number was open to everyone, even fans.

The Better Call Saul hotline gave fans a direct line to the law offices of Goodman and associates. Fans won’t get to talk to Saul, but they’ll get some interesting advice. 

15. Sex Addiction Intervention: (605)-475-6972 

If the rejection and Mary Sue rejection hotlines can’t get the job done, it’s time to pull out the big guns. The sex addiction intervention hotline is one of the funniest ways to turn someone down.

It features a funny automated message to ensure they never pester another person again. Of course, the number is only for the most extreme cases. If someone you don’t care for won’t leave you alone, give them this as a fake number. 

16. Bad Breath Hotline: (605)–475–6959 

Most of these random numbers are an excellent way to prank someone. However, this number is an easy way to tell someone a hard truth about themselves. Some people might not be aware they have bad breath.

Since telling them can be awkward for both of you, have them call the bad breath hotline at 605-475-6959. The automated message will offer the person types of dental hygiene in a fun way without being mean. 

In the 19th century, Joseph Smith founded LDS during the Second Great Awakening. Their religious texts include The Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. The religion draws heavily from the Old Testament, notably the Ten Commandments, and consists of many Mormon rules.

The followers believe in Godhead; consisting of God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. Smith claimed to have a vision of God and his son, Jesus, telling him to restore the original church leading to the creation of the LDS. Mormons have an interesting belief system with a strict set of rules they must follow. To outsiders, these rules might seem strange and slightly overbearing. Nevertheless, Mormons must adhere to the doctrine and Morman faith to experience eternal life. 

Below are some of the religion’s weirdest rules that set them apart from other faiths.

Exploring 25 Fascinating and Unconventional Mormon Rules

1. Polygamy 

In 1843, founder Joseph Smith claimed to have a vision from God telling him that each Mormon man should have multiple wives. Smith told those closest to him about his vision, but they had to keep it from the government and other church members. Publicly, Smith denied practicing polygamy and would excommunicate anyone that did.

After his death, Brigham Young became his successor and went public with plural marriages, resulting in a 60-year battle with the United States government. The church fought to retain its right to practice polygamy, contributing to the cause of the Utah War.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, relations with the US government improved when the Mormon Church suspended the practice of polygamy. That resulted in several sects spinning off to form their own separate religion. 

2. No Same Sex Marriage or Abortions 

With the end of plural marriages, the church defines marriage as the union between a man and a woman. Mormons don’t recognize same-sex marriage. Since they also follow the Ten Commandments, they’re one of the most vigorous opponents of abortion.

3. Mormons Can Lie 

Mormons abide by many strict rules based on The Bible, their teachings, and law enforcement. They also oppose many cultural shifts, such as same-sex marriage. One thing they’re okay with is lying.

Unlike other religions, Mormons learn it’s okay to lie for the greater good and protect the community. They often lie to defend their rights and freedom. It stems from Mormons fighting the government over their right to practice polygamy. Not every Mormon believes in lying though, with many considering it a sin. 

4. Missionaries Can Only Play Half Court Basketball

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints maintains one of the most extensive missionary programs in the world. The LDS has several strict rules the missionaries must adhere to. While permitted to play basketball on half-courts, the church forbids Mormons from playing full-court games. Furthermore, they cannot play in leagues, and tournaments, or keep score. 

5. Female Clothing Must Be Modest 

The Mormon Church has a strict dress code for women to follow. The rules have evolved over time, stating women must wear modest attire. They must avoid wearing short skirts or clothing that shows off their figures.

In modern times, they can wear pants in certain situations, notably when doing missionary work. The church now permits dresses that come to the knees. The rules and women’s role in the church is constantly evolving. 

6. No Swearing

Nowadays almost everyone swears and uses profanity like they’re on a HBO series. That said, people still frown upon swearing in public, especially Mormons. They have a strict no-swearing or profanity policy.

They won’t use a “bad word” in situations like stubbing their toe or walking into a wall. It’s one of the first things people notice about Mormons since most people swear like they’re a gangster in a Martin Scorsese movie. 

7. Keep Three Months Worth of Food Stockpiled at All Times

The Mormon Church encourages followers to stockpile roughly three months of food and supplies. The practice dates back to the founding of the LDS and continues today. There are numerous reasons they accumulate food.

Some are preparing for the apocalypse or a natural disaster, while other followers are stockpiling in cases of personal tragedy or injury.

8. Missionaries Can’t Swim 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a set of strict rules and guidelines that missionaries must follow. The church prohibits missionaries from swimming for safety reasons. Those outside the missionaries can swim as much as they like, but not on Sundays. Mormons refrain from all leisure activities on Sundays. 

9. Modest Hair and One Piercing 

Like women’s clothing, the LDS requires women to wear their hair in a modest style. They usually wear it in a basic ponytail avoiding any shine, products, or accessories that might draw attention to them. The Mormon Church prohibits them from wearing curls during the summer months. While they are allowed to have a piercing, they can only have one in each ear. Nose piercings and the like are not acceptable.

10. No Beards 

The counterculture of the 1960s and 1970s influenced the Mormon youth. Men began growing out their beards and facial hair. The combination of the change in women’s fashion resulted in the church setting stricter and harsher clothing guidelines. The church requires men to shave their beards to avoid appearing dirty. 

11. No Drinking Hot Beverages 

The Mormon Church follows specific rules established by the Old Testament, such as the Ten Commandments. They also have some additional rules each Mormon must follow.

They have strict rules against drinking hot coffee or tea. They make a clear distinction that Mormons abstain from hot beverages. Consuming caffeine is fine for a cold drink such as iced coffee or Coke, but hot is seen as a big no-no. 

12. No Eating Meat in Summer

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has interesting views on eating meat. The Words of Wisdom prohibit tobacco, alcohol, and hot beverages. To be considered worthy, each Mormon must follow those rules.

Eating meat is also referenced, although it doesn’t have the same implication since there seems to be some confusion. According to the texts, Mormons must eat meat sparingly in the cold and winter months. Mormons can’t eat meat during the summer months at all, making them vegetarians for part of the year. 

13. Missionaries Can Only Contact Family Twice a Year 

The Mormon church regards missionary work as an essential part of the journey of worthiness. At one point, they cut off all communication with loved ones to focus on work since family’s considered a distraction.

They can only call family twice yearly, on Christmas and Mother’s Day. In 2019, the church amended the rule to encourage more communication with family, including but not limited to phone calls, texts, and emails. 

14. Cannot Criticize Church Leaders 

One of the most severe offenses an LDS member can commit is criticizing the church, leaders, and policies. They are more than free to criticize the Church. In fact, the church encourages these criticisms as long as they keep it to themselves. The church forbids members from writing anything negative.

They even created the Strengthening Church Members Committee to monitor all LDS members’ writing. If they find any information, they forward it to the bishop to determine an appropriate punishment. 

15. Passing the Law of Chastity 

Passing the law of chastity is one of the church’s most controversial rules. During the days of Joseph Smith, it was common for a man to have multiple wives. However, since the change in laws in the 70s, the Mormon Church took a more strict view on sexuality, especially with teens. It begins on a child’s 8th birthday after their first baptism.

Part of the process requires a bishop to question the child about following the law of chastity and if they’ve been sexually active. They repeat this at age 12 and throughout their teens until adulthood. Questioning children about sex stirred up controversy. Nowadays, many bishops avoid asking the question or modifying it.

16. No Tattoos 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has strict guidelines regarding fashion and trends. For example, the church has strict rules against members having tattoos. They oppose all body art and multiple piercings.

17. No Leisure On Sundays 

Mormons dedicate their Sundays to the Church. While some religions dedicate Sunday morning to Church, Mormons extend it throughout the day. Even when they leave Church, the day is still about religion.

They don’t have any leisure or enjoyment time on Sunday. Thus, they don’t read, watch TV, go to the park, or listen to music. Anything that’s considered fun is a giant no-no. Sunday is about reflecting and deep thought. 

18. No Dating Until 16 

Mormons cannot start dating until after they turn 16. Before that, Mormons of the opposite sex can only interact if it involves studying.

In most cases, they start dating around 18 after completing two years of missionary work. Once they turn 18, they start dating with the intent to get married, although the Church also prohibits premarital sex. 

19. No Kissing 

While premarital sex is banned, Mormon teens can kiss, but there are rules that also must be adhered to. They can kiss as long as it’s neither passionate nor too long. Those same rules apply to hugging and holding hands too. So really, physical touch isn’t a big part of the religion.

20. Divorce Is a Necessary Evil 

Marriage is a sacred bond among Mormons and their religion. The Church is strictly against divorce except in extreme cases. They view it as a sign and frown upon divorce.

Mormons have two wedding ceremonies. One is a more basic ceremony with family and lots of food. They have a second ceremony, which is the sealing of their bond at the temple. The bond can never break, even in the afterlife. 

21. Wear Undergarments At All Times 

Remaining clean and pure are two essential elements of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Mormons often wear undergarments beneath their clothing. Once they go through the temple, they must wear special garments. The silk or cotton undergarments are a reminder to stay pure, clean, honest, and virtuous. It’s important to remain faithful to the Ten Commandments. 

22. Soaking

Soaking is a controversial subject among Mormons. Many claim the practice is an urban legend, while others are adamant it exists. Essentially, soaking is a loophole around the law of chastity. The church prohibits sex outside of heterosexual marriage. However, soaking is sex without the thrusting, allowing Mormons to get around the rule without breaking it officially. 

23. No Oral Sex 

With all the strict rules about dating and kissing, it shouldn’t be surprising that four-play is also frowned upon. Most notably, the Church forbids oral sex on a man or woman. It’s strictly against religion which is another downer for those who follow.

24. Have Lots of Babies 

The church forbids premarital or oral sex but encourages Mormons to procreate. Indeed, they don’t believe in birth control or abortion. That’s why Mormon families are often large, with an average of 9.8 children per family. Even if they can’t afford to have that many children, the Church encourages them to have as many as possible. 

25. No Cigarettes, Alcohol, or Drugs 

It’s not uncommon for religions to forbid drinking alcohol, consuming drugs, and banning smoking tobacco and marijuana. Mormons also refuse these substances for being unhealthy and addictive. They believe these substances make a person impure on the inside. Therefore, they won’t pass onto the three heavens. 

Since the 1800s, there have been discussions about the possible creation of AI. It’s now become a reality and is taking shape, becoming a big part of our everyday life. This article explores AI future predictions and the exciting possibilities and potential impacts it will have on our way of life.

People use numerous AI applications daily, including understanding human speech, recommendation systems, and web searches. These include popular devices such as Alexa, Netflix, and Google Search. Artificial Intelligence has already come so far. Shockingly, it still has a long way to go. Experts predict that Artificial intelligence will impact humans on various levels. They anticipate it’ll change banking, education, transportation, and entertainment, as you will discover below.

18 AI Future Predictions That Will Change The Way We Live

1. Generative Artificial Intelligence 

Generative Artificial Intelligence is advancing quicker than anyone could imagine. Several systems like Stable Diffusion, MidJourney, and DALL-E 2 can create detailed texts, images, and media from a simple prompt. The best-known Generative AI are the highly capable chatbots ChatGPT and Bing Chat. Both systems can converse with users, answer highly complex questions, write essays, create code, and compose emails. The technology continues to advance at a rapid pace.

The Google Brain has been hard at work creating text-to-video AI. GPT-4 created OpenAI with multimodel capabilities, such as creating new business models from scratch. Researchers anticipate that Generative AI will impact several professions, including graphic design, writing, gaming, fashion, software development, and healthcare. It also has negative drawbacks, notably fake news, deep fakes, and the end of many people’s jobs. 

2. Artificial Intelligence Will Solve the world’s Problems

Teams around the world are working on ways to improve and enhance artificial intelligence. The goal is to create a knowledgeable AI that’s so smart it can improve itself until it’s the perfect machine, known as Singularity.

Futurist Ray Kurzweil believes computers will have human-level intelligence by 2045. With an extensive database, this high-level AI will analyze large amounts of information to solve the world’s problems, such as climate change, hunger, overpopulation, and diseases. Or rise up against us and destroy humanity like in The Terminator. Hopefully, it’s the first one.

3. Artificial Intelligence Can Help Predict Future Events 

With the help of artificial intelligence, humans can predict future events accurately. They might even be able to predict hours, days, weeks, months, years, and decades in advance. Scientists believe AI will even predict human behavior in committing crimes, falling in love, and divorcing.

Ray Kurzweil has used technology to make numerous predictions, most notably the popularity and reach of the Internet. At the same time, many of his predictions were wrong. AI predictions are already part of daily life. Facebook and Google use AI predictions to determine the ads and content users will likely click on.

4. Humans Won’t Have To Work Anymore 

In the past, technological advancements sometimes meant a loss of jobs for the working-class blue-collar worker. With artificial intelligence rapidly growing, it could mean the loss of twice as many jobs, including blue and white collar. AI will change the workforce by introducing new automation, AI-powered interfaces, remote interpretation tech, and AI-powered transcription. Companies replacing employees with robots is human’s greatest fear.

Scientists believe these fears are unfounded and unwarranted. While AI will likely replace humans in current jobs, it’ll also create new jobs for humans that we have yet to imagine. New job possibilities will emerge in managing, generating, and servicing artificial intelligent technology. AI will make work life easier, giving people more time to spend with family.

5. Upload Our Minds To the Cloud 

The Cloud has already changed the way of life in many ways. Science fiction series, like Black Mirror, propose uploading a person’s mind to the Cloud. This might soon be more than a storyline.

Researchers believe humans can upload minds, memories, consciousness, and thoughts to the Cloud. The mind-bending breakthrough means that humans can live for an eternity. Life will continue in a virtual reality-type scenario. Of course, it would be a copy of our minds and not real people, but still, it’s one way to live forever.

6. Machines Will Become Our Best Friends 

Social media and phones make it possible to interact with friends without human contact. Many people prefer this mode of conversation. As artificial intelligence advances, they’ll be able to adapt and have intelligent conversations with humans.

There’s a chance that machines will become man’s best friend. There’s also a belief that super-intelligent devices will be able to care for the elderly and sick. Robots that help daily life are already on the market, including Roomba, Google Home, and Pepper, the robot companion. 

7. Humans Will Become Cyborgs 

As technology and artificial intelligence advances, so will humans. Many scientists predict that the next step in human evolution and technology is combining the two to create cyborgs. With enhanced implants and prosthetics, the human body and mind will go places we never imagined.

3D printing, augmented reality, neuroscience, and robotics will create human cyborgs with enhanced hearing, vision, and intelligence. It will help extend human life as these cybernetic parts will help cure diseases and replace limbs and organs.

Experts predict that humans will go from touching the screen to living in virtual reality through being a cyborg. These exoskeletons will also be able to assist with helping injured or the elderly walk without human assistance. 

8. Smart Assistants Will Evolve 

The next generation of interfaces will change the world in more ways than we can imagine. Smart assistants have become an essential part of life. They can do everything from playing our favorite song and telling us the time to giving directions and weather tips.

Devices like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri use voice recognition and prompts. Soon, these AI assistants will quickly evolve into super-intelligent advisory systems that are empathic, smart, learn, and adapt.

9. Education 

Advancements in technology have already had a significant impact on the education system. During the Covid-19 lockdown, education moved from the classroom to online.

Experts expect artificial intelligence to take teaching and learning to the next level. AI will create personal education programs for each student and their needs. AI will focus on administrative work, grading papers, and creating lesson plans, allowing teachers to focus on the students and their educational needs.

10. Superhumans Living in Symbiosis With AI

While some scientists believe artificial intelligence will create a population of Iron Men, others see the world going in a different direction. Instead of becoming cyborgs, humans will have the ability to link up their brains to supercomputers. This means the human brain and AI will continue evolving and in theory combine to create an idyllic world.

Combining the human mind and a super-intelligent system will produce beings far smarter than humans and AI alone. Elon Musk is already hard at work, creating an implanted chip known as the neural lace, to upload or download thoughts to a computer to enhance a person’s intelligence.

11. Autonomous Vehicles 

Classic sci-fi movies like Back to the Future Part II and Blade Runner promised flying cars that could operate themselves. The days of these futuristic vehicles are upon us. With machines and voice assistants evolving, it’s only a matter of time before they impact cars. Autonomous cars will learn and recognize patterns, requiring no driver.

Aside from being self-sufficient, cars will be more environmentally friendly. Manufacturers suggest cars will be driverless between 2020 and 2030. They also predict home automation and factory assembly lines will utilize artificial intelligence. Not only will autonomous vehicles take over, but autonomous agriculture equipment and robots will be available by the end of the decade. 

12. Health Care 

Scientists anticipate that artificial intelligence will have a significant impact on health care. AI will help doctors and nurses develop the ideal treatment plan for patients. It’ll collect massive amounts of data providing insight into the patient and predicting how they’ll respond to specific treatments. With machines learning faster, they’ll sort through thousands of pieces of evidence and data, which usually take weeks.

Healthcare professionals already use AI for gene sequencing to identify and predict patterns. It’ll allow doctors to research and understand diseases and treatments faster. AI will also have to test the efficacy of drugs and their potential side effects. 

13. AI Generative Music 

Experts predict that generative artificial intelligence will move from the computer lab to gaining commercial use. The new advanced technology will profoundly impact the music industry in particular. AI generative music could easily create eye-catching logos, artwork, and social media posts. It could also produce online media content, background music, and even commercial jingles. 

14. Banking and Finances 

Artificial intelligence will have a major impact on the financial industry. Experts expect it will help improve the customer experience. Advanced AI chatbots can communicate personally and effectively with the client improving digital banking.

AI will also enhance portfolio management and risk management strategies. The ultimate goal is to create an AI so advanced and powerful that it can manage entire franchises and chains across the globe. 

15. Cybersecurity

As technology advances, the cyberattacks become more complicated and destructive. Artificial intelligence will help advance cybersecurity to prepare for those advanced attacks. Cybersecurity experts will have the time to tackle new threats while keeping watch constantly. With complex AI algorithms and machines that learn, cybersecurity can go places only movies and TV shows have gone.

16. Security and Defense

Police officers, firefighters, law enforcement, and soldiers worldwide risk their lives daily. It doesn’t matter what part of the world they live in; being a hero is a risky job. Artificial intelligence will have a positive influence on security and defense. Artificial intelligence can monitor the borders and airspace using drones instead of soldiers.

It will also improve surveillance and target recognition. It will change the way authorities investigate crimes and search for victims. Advancements in technology and DNA have allowed police officers to solve numerous cold cases. AI facial recognition will become one of the most critical tools for law enforcement in the future. 

17. Entertainment 

Artificial intelligence has already had a dramatic impact on the entertainment industry. Streaming services like Disney Plus, Amazon Prime, and Netflix use algorithms to predict viewers’ preferences and tastes.

Eventually, AI will be able to anticipate preferences by predicting a person’s mood and even day. Entertainment experts expect virtual reality to take entertainment to new places with new ways to watch movies, and TV shows, and play games. 

18. Greater Emphasis on AI Ethics 

Artificial intelligence technology isn’t the only thing that’s going to evolve. How humans view AI and its ethics will also improve significantly. Experts note that AI can create incredible imagery and art. A user can easily copy someone else’s hard work, raising serious questions about artistic integrity. Businesses will have to enhance cybersecurity and protect against data leaks.

Another critical aspect businesses using AI must address is transparency with customers and employees. However, experts note that AI has a significant bias. Artificial intelligence tends to adopt the bias of the human designers inputting the information. Companies are working on tackling these issues as artificial intelligence becomes a reality. 

Several factors influence human behavior, such as psychological traits, feelings, environment, thoughts, and genetics. It often reveals that every personality differs and varies from person to person. Humans are strange creatures roaming the Earth with different psychological behaviors as you will discover below.

41 Fascinating Psychology Facts About Human Behavior 

1. Small Groups Make Better Decisions 

Evidence suggests that large groups of people tend to make poor decisions compared to small groups or individuals. Groupthink and decisions usually result in mob mentality, such as the January 6th riot at the Capitol Building in the United States. That’s why it’s always better to listen to others’ advice but go with your gut feeling on things.

2. Exercise Delays Brain’s Aging By Ten Years 

It’s no secret that exercise is excellent for the mind, body, and spirit. But it’s not just about looking good in a t-shirt or impressing the gym bros. Increased physical exercise delays the neurological decline in the human brain and slows the aging process by ten years. So put down the chicken tenders and hit the gym!

3. Memories Appear As Dreams 

They say our lives flash before our eyes as we die. That’s not just a cute saying. The brain experiences seven minutes of neuron activity as a person’s body shuts down. During that seven minutes, the human mind plays back a person’s memories as dreams. 

4. Shared Imagination 

Every person has their own unique imagination and creative mind. Amazingly, most humans also have a shared imagination. Better known as the canonical perspective, a study asked individuals to draw a coffee cup from their creativity. They all sketched out the same mug using similar angles and designs. 

5. Hug for Trust 

Some hugs feel awkward and uncomfortable. Others are warm and welcoming. Hold that hug for a little longer, and they might fall in love with you. A hug lasting longer than twenty seconds produces hormones that make you trust the person you’re hugging. 

6. Food Made By Someone Else Is Better

A study shows that people enjoy eating food prepared by someone else more than if they make it themselves. No matter how long they stand over a hot stove, they feel someone else’s food is better and nicer, even if there’s is perfect. Some individuals put a lot of effort into each one of their meals. Regardless of the effort, they would like it better if someone else spent all day in the kitchen instead.

7. Chocolate Is as Addictive as Drugs 

Few things compare to the sweet and creamy treat of chocolate. It’s one of the best snacks created in history. Researchers discovered that chocolate affects the same part of the brain as drugs. That means chocolate can be as addictive as recreational drugs.

8. Losing a Mobile Phone Compares To a Near-Death Experience 

While cell phones make connecting with people easier, it adds a whole new level of stress. An intense panic washes over individuals when they can’t find their cell phones. A recent study found that a person who loses their cell phone experiences the same level of emotions as a near-death experience. In other words, people’s lives flash before their eyes if they can’t find their cell phones. 

9. Having a Crush 

Before a romance starts and can lead to love, it begins as a simple crush. Everyone wants to experience that heart-pounding romantic love. According to science, a crush isn’t as cute as people assume. When people have a crush, they project their ideals, beliefs, and thoughts onto the person they want to be with. The crush then connects strong feelings to the situation they created. 

10. It Only Takes Four Minutes To Fall In Love

There’s an old saying that fools rush in and fall in love too fast. Evidence suggests a person falls in love between the 90s seconds and four minutes after meeting someone for the first time. Apparently, the fools have been doing it right. 

11. If a Person Laughs a Lot, They Might Be Lonely 

It doesn’t matter if a person is in a relationship or surrounded by many friends; there’s a good chance they still experience loneliness. Often, a very lonely person laughs a lot and sometimes at things that aren’t funny. It’s common for someone struggling with mental health to use humor and laughter to deal with loneliness, depression, and social anxiety. 

12. A Person That Sleeps a Lot Is Sad 

One might assume that a person who sleeps a lot is lazy and unmotivated. In reality, it’s more likely that they’re feeling intense feelings of sadness and depression. The feelings can get so intense they can’t get out of bed for any task, leading to their lack of motivation and enthusiasm for life.

13. Can’t Stop Checking Social Media 

It’s common for a person to fall down the social media rabbit hole. They can’t stop checking each of their different profiles. Scientific evidence suggests this is a new type of psychological phenomenon. Every time a person scrolls through their timeline, it creates dopamine, producing feelings of sensation and pleasure. 

14. People Who Feel Guilt Have Lots of Empathy 

Researchers found that individuals who feel deep-seated guilt are likelier to feel empathy. Their feelings of guilt allow them to understand and relate to other people’s feelings and experiences. 

15. People With Social Power lack Empathy 

On the other hand, a person with social power, such as a manager, teacher, or instructor, tends to lack empathy. Therefore, they often come across as mean and heartless. 

16. We Can Understand Any Misspelled Sentence

Learning to read and write is the foundation of an education. One lesson not taught is that humans can read a misspelled sentence as long as the first and last letters are correct. For example, We udnretsnad any msseed up stnecene as lnog as the lsat and frsit lteerts wdroś in crrcoet palecs. 

17. Fear and Joy 

Nothing in this world is more confusing than fear and joy. People are more adventurous and willing to experiment when feeling happy and joyful. When a person experiences feelings of fear and anxiety, they lean towards something that’s comforting and familiar, such as binge-watching an old TV show or eating.

18. You Are Less Likely To Achieve Goals if You Announce It 

Sometimes it’s better to keep goals to yourself. Studies show that motivation decreases when a person announces a personal goal. 

19. People Who Watch Crimes Shows Overestimate Crime In America 

Police procedurals are a staple of prime-time programs, such as Cold Case, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, and Law & Order. Research shows that people who watch these series misunderstand crime in America. They overestimate the frequency of crime and the amount of law enforcement involved due to the influence of these shows. 

20. More Likely to Return a Lost Wallet With a Baby Picture 

Losing your wallet causes panic and anxiety similar to misplacing your phone. Most people hope that a good samaritan will find the wallet and return it. Put a kid’s picture in the wallet to ensure its return, even if you don’t have one. Studies show that people are likely to return a wallet if a child’s picture is inside. 

21. Travel Reduces Stress 

Traveling and seeing the world isn’t just about going on a vacation. It also has a positive impact on mental and physical health. Those that travel have better psychological and emotional wellness. It also decreases stress and enhances physical health.

22. Talk About Interests On a Date 

It’s good to listen and ask your date questions to get to know them. At the same time, showing them your best traits is important. Thus, talk about your passions and interests. Dates often find people that are excited about their interests attractive. Without being overbearing, share your passions with your date while getting to know them.

23. People Appreciate Furniture They Put Together

While putting IKEA furniture together can be frustrating and stressful, it’s pretty rewarding once it’s complete. It’s actually a psychological phenomenon known as the “IKEA effect.” People value the furniture they put together more than the ones they purchase outright. 

24. Music Impacts Mood 

Everyone has a favorite song, album, or playlist they love. The genre of music dramatically impacts a person’s mood throughout the day. For example, slower music often causes people to reflect, reminisce, or feel sad. At the same time, a fast pace song with an uptempo beat keeps people in a cheerful and happy mood. 

25. Strict Rules Are Tempting To Break 

Researchers discovered that humans can’t help but break the rules. The more strict the rules, the more people want to break them. A good example would be the Covid-19 lockdown, which upset many people. 

26. Sarcasm Is a Positive

Sarcastic people always have some snarky comments up their sleeve, but it might not be a bad thing. Sarcasm is a sign of good mental health and a sharp mind. Having a sarcastic child, sibling, spouse, or friend can be fun and draining. So keep those snarky comments coming as long as you can.

27. People Find It Tough To Be Happy 

Even when good things happen, some expect it to balance out with something terrible. Evidence suggests that people have anxiety over happiness and good things occurring. The human mind expects awful things to happen more often than something positive. 

28. Dying of a Broken Heart

After a breakup, people often suffer from genuine emotional, mental, and physical pain. The physical pain is also real and can even result in death. Better known as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, broken heart syndrome occurs when a person encounters sudden emotional stress often related to grief. 

29. Childhood Songs 

Certain songs have a way of sticking with a person their entire life. The research proposes that songs we listen to in high school have a lasting impact because we hear the songs during a time in our lives full of growth and exploration. That’s why you often end up listening to music from your youth as you get older as it reminds you of the good old days.

30. Loved One’s Trigger Yawns 

When one person yawns, it often sets off a chain reaction of other people yawning. However, a stranger isn’t the one triggering your yawn. Evidence shows that yawns are contagious among family and friends.

31. Speaking Different Languages Is Beneficial

Being able to speak multiple languages has many benefits. It makes traveling much easier, allowing tourists to visit faraway lands. Individuals often have different personalities to match the other language. They might be funnier, assertive, or charming when speaking in a different language.

32. Peripheral Vision 

Watching out of our peripheral vision relates to natural survival skills. Some people have a unique ability to see danger from the corner of their eyes. In fact, every human has this unique strength. We might not use these skills in the wilderness, but it comes up in daily life. For example, our peripheral vision is why we never miss those annoying pop-up ads.

33. Oversleeping Leads To More Sleeping

Health experts recommend getting an early start to the day. Some people sleep in or oversleep. Doctors note that oversleeping isn’t healthy for the body. Oversleeping isn’t satisfying and usually leads to the body wanting to sleep more. 

34. Being Around Happy People 

Scientists once made a startling discovery that changed science and the world. Being around happy people often leads to feeling happy. In other words, surround yourself with happy people, so you can always feel happy. 

35. Being Ignored Is Physically Painful

When someone ignores you, it can be hurtful, painful, and stressful. It’s much more than a simple pain. Ignoring causes the same level of emotion as a severe physical injury. 

36. Holding Hands Is Good for Your Health

Some people have a tough time with public displays of affection but this is something you need to overcome to have a happy life. Holding hands has a positive chemical effect, causing people to feel less pain and anxiety. 

37. Trying To Remember the Past 

Memory is one of the most complex parts of the human brain. When trying to remember a past event or story, people don’t actually recall the actual event. Instead, they remember the last time they remember the event or story. This causes people to add different details and events the more times they try to recall them. That adds obvious credibility issues to each person’s memory but does enhance the story.

38. The Sun Makes People Happy 

Experts stress the importance of going outside and getting some sun. The Sun has a way of making everyone feel happy. It’s likely related to being outside, but evidence also suggests that the chemicals from the Sun’s heat improve a person’s mood considerably.

39. Having Siblings 

Growing up with siblings means learning to share, empathize, and co-exist in one household. At times, it can be tough having brothers and sisters. However, those with siblings often get along well with other people later in life. 

40. Remembering A Story 

People love to tell stories about adventures, romance, or movie plots. As noted, memory is tricky and works in mysterious ways. It’s much easier to remember a story’s beginning and end than to remember the middle. 

41. Dunbar’s Number 

According to Dunbar’s number, a person can maintain 50 to 150 relationships. These would be people they consider friends and know how they relate to others. They would have close relationships with each person and not just acquaintances. 

The capital city, Austin, is one of many world-renowned locations in the state. Texas also plays a vital role in American politics and is a major state when it comes to shaping policies in the country. Despite being synonymous with the desert, Texas features gorgeous landscapes, grasslands, and piney woods. The state has a long and rich history, unlike any other state in the United States. To prove this, here are some super fun facts about Texas sure to surprise you.

20 Fun Facts About Texas

1. The Name Texas Derives From the Caddo Word for Friends

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Before Europeans arrived in America, Native Americans inhabited the majority of the region. Various tribes lived on the land, such as the Caddo, Aranama, and Comanche tribes. During Spanish rule, the Europeans attempted to form ties with the Caddo tribe since they shared similar interests in agriculture.

The Caddo tribe’s influence transcends time as the state’s name, “Texas,” comes from the Caddo word for friends, “taysha.” It also inspired the state’s motto, which is friendship. 

2. Frozen Margaritas Come From Texas

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In 1971, Mariano Martinez opened his first restaurant in his home state of Dallas, Texas. Martinez used his father’s margarita recipe as the crown jewel of Mariano’s Mexican Cuisine. Soon, guests packed the restaurant, but they complained about the margaritas. Due to the large number of customers, the bartenders weren’t measuring out the drink properly. It didn’t help that they only had one blender also.

Martinez came up with the idea for a frozen margarita machine when he noticed a Slurpee machine at a local 7-11. He modified an old ice cream machine and used his father’s famous recipe. Thus, the frozen margarita machine was born in Texas, becoming the restaurant’s signature drink.

Martinez’s career took off and he now runs five Mexican restaurants in Texas. The original frozen margarita machine is now at the Smithsonian Museum. 

3. Six Flags Over Texas

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After a visit to Disneyland, a real estate developer quickly began work on an amusement park in his home state in the early 1960s dubbed “Six Flags Over Texas.” The name pays tribute to Texas’ history and the six flags that flew over Texas, representing the six countries that controlled the region.

Spain was the first sovereign country to rule Texas from 1519 to 1685 and again from 1690 until 1821. France took over from 1685 to 1690, while Mexico controlled the region from 1821 to 1836. Before joining the United States in 1845, the Republic of Texas stayed separate. Later, Texas joined the Confederate States from 1861 to 1865 until rejoining America. The six flags over Texas sit in front of government buildings throughout the state. 

4. Dr. Pepper Was Invented in Waco

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Pharmacist Charles Alderton created the popular soda Dr. Pepper in 1885, one year before Coca-Cola hit the market. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Alderton invented the famous beverage in Morrison’s Old Corner Drugstore in Waco, Texas.

Alderton sold the drink and recipe to Wade Morrison, who named it Dr. Pepper, although the origin of the name is a mystery. The famous recipe is top secret and kept in two halves at separate banks in Dallas.

5. The Lone Star State

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In 1836, the Republic of Texas gained its independence from Mexico after the Texas Revolution finally came to an end. They made it official in 1839 by unveiling the famous Lone Star Flag, hence the nickname “The Lone Star State.” The flag remains beloved in the country and a proud symbol of Texas. There’s just one small problem: nobody knows who designed the iconic flag.

Rumors suggest Dr. Charles B. Stewart sketched out the single star, but he could have plagiarized the idea. Regardless, the identity of the Lone Star designer remains one of Texas’ greatest mysteries. Texas became the 28th state upon joining the United States. 

6. Sam Houston

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Sam Houston is one of Texas’s most famous and significant historical figures. As a tribute to his influence, his name is all over the state, including Sam Houston National Forest, Fort Sam Houston, and the largest city in Texas, Houston.

After serving as governor of Tennessee, Houston played a pivotal role in the Texas Revolution and the state gaining independence from Mexico. He became the first President of the Republic of Texas and helped join the United States. He became one of the first Texas governors to serve in the Senate. He opposed secession and joining the Confederacy but remained loyal to the South.

7. The Most Populous Cities Are in Texas

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Some of the most famous cities in America are all in Texas. They have a reputation for having large populations that shows their Texas pride daily. Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and San Antonio are some of the largest cities not only in Texas but in the entire North America. Trailing behind those three cities are Austin and El Paso. After an economic boom, several major Fortune 500 companies moved to these growing cities which helped increase the population and create more jobs. 

8. Big Tex Statue

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Since 1886, the State Fair of Texas has been one of the most significant events in the state each year. Located in Dallas, the fair has stirred up controversy over the years. However, everyone agrees they love Big Tex. Standing 55 feet, Big Tex is an iconic symbol of the fair, Dallas, and Texas.

The big cowboy debuted in 1952 and remains a beloved part of the state’s identity. Originally a giant Santa Claus, Big Tex wears his trademark denim jeans and cowboy hat. In 2012, a fire destroyed the framework of Big Tex on its 60th anniversary as fairgoers watched. A brand new Big Tex debuted the following year to widespread acclaim.  

9. The Fastest Road in America

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Texas State Highway 130 is one of the vital routes in America. It stretches from San Antonio to Austin, reducing traffic from other highways. For roughly 41 miles, the highway posts a speed limit of 85 mph, making it the highest posted speed limit in Texas, the United States, and North America. Only a few cities, such as Abu Dhabi, Poland, and Bulgaria, have higher speeds. 

10. The Birth Place of Two Presidents

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Texas produced two of America’s most important Presidents. It was also the site of one of the most infamous assassinations of a President. Born in Denison, Texas, Dwight D. Eisenhower served as the 34th President from 1953 to 1961. He began work on the notorious Bay of Pigs invasion but left the execution to incoming President John F. Kennedy.

On November 22, 1963, Lee Harvey Oswald assassinated JFK at Dealey Plaza in Dallas, Texas. Then Vice-President Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in as the 36th President of the United States. Johnson was born in a farmhouse in Stonewall, Texas, and graduated from Texas State University in 1930. He served as President from 1963 to 1969, notably shaping the Civil Rights Act and Voting Rights Act. 

11. “What’s Up, Doc?”

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There isn’t a person in the world who isn’t aware of the cartoon character Bugs Bunny. He’s known for his sarcastic wit, love of carrots, and famous catchphrase, “What’s up, Doc?” Director Tex Avery used the phrase for the first time in 1940’s A Wild Hare. The first time Bugs used the phrase, the audience erupted in laughter and cheers.

Avery was surprised since he didn’t think much of the phrase, which was popular in Texas at that time. The director grew up in Texas and attended North Dallas High School, where “What’s up, doc?” was a popular term similar to “What’s up, dude?”

12. The Texas Rangers Are the Oldest Statewide Law Enforcement Agency

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“The Father of Texas,” Stephen F. Austin, formed an early version of the Texas Rangers in 1823. Later, in 1835, they became a permanent law enforcement agency in Texas. They’re the oldest statewide law enforcement agency in the United States and became a defining image of the Old West.

Texas Rangers have played a crucial role in some of the state’s most significant cases and notorious moments. They helped stop infamous bank robber Sam Bass, violent killer John Wesley Hardin, and the iconic Bonnie & Clyde. They remain a staple of Texas culture, with Chuck Norris even playing one in the much-loved Walker, Texas Ranger. 

13. Texas Sports

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After California, Texas has the most sports teams in America. They have numerous teams in each of the big four sports leagues. The pride and joy of Texas are the beloved multi-time Superbowl champions, the Dallas Cowboys of the NFL. They also have a second NFL team the Houston Texans. The state has three world-famous NBA teams: the Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks, and San Antonio Spurs.

While Texans love their football, rodeo, and basketball, baseball has always held a special place in the state with the Texas Rangers and Houston Astros both playing in the MLB. Texas has one team in the NHL, the Dallas Stars. Additionally, Texas has three MLS teams; FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, and Austin FC. The state also has one WNBA team, the Houston Dash. 

14. The Largest Colony of Bats Lives in Texas

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Outside of San Antonio in Comal County, Texas, the unassuming Backen Cave sits at the bottom of a sinkhole with an ominous crescent-shaped entrance. Inside the cave lives the largest bat colony in the world.

Between March and October, roughly 20 million Mexican free-tailed bats live in the Texas cave. Sitting on 1,521 acres of land, Bat Conservation International maintains the cave and surrounding areas.

15. The SMU-TCU Winner Gets an Iron Skillet

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Since 1919, the Southern Methodist University’s Mustangs and Texas Christian University’s Horned Frogs have been among college sports’ most legendary feuds. However, the rivalry isn’t even the most interesting part. That privilege is reserved for the winning team that receives the famed Iron Skillet instead of a traditional trophy.

There are two stories behind the famous Iron Skillet trophy. One account suggests the student bodies from both schools met and agreed on the skillet at some point, although nobody knows why that was chosen as a suitable trophy. The other version proposes that an SMU student was frying up frog legs in a skillet before a game. A TCU student took offense, agreeing that the winning team would win the iron skillet, bragging rights, and, most importantly, the fried frog legs.

16. The Texas Longhorn

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At one point in Texas’s history, bison and other cattle were vital to the state’s early growth. No animal was more essential to Texas’ identity and early economy than the Texas Longhorn. Initially brought over by European settlers, the Texas Longhorn flourished in the Texas weather, becoming an official symbol of the state. The animal is so vital that the University of Texas at Austin adopted the Texas Longhorn as its official symbol and mascot. 

17. King Ranch Is Larger Than Rhode Island and Luxemburg

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In South Texas, between Brownsville and Corpus Christi, is the renowned King’s Ranch. Founded by Richard King in 1853, the cattle ranch is famous for producing the Triple Crown-winning racehorse Assault.

With an impressive 825,000 acres, King’s Ranch is bigger than the country of Luxembourg and the state of Rhode Island. The ranch has a torrid history that includes the murder of King’s business partner and the discover of rich oil on the property in the 1930s. 

18. The Rio Grande

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The historic Rio Grande is the largest river running through Texas and the fourth largest in North America. Once the river enters El Paso, Texas, from New Mexico, it becomes the border between the United States and Mexico. 

19. Texas Bigfoot

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On the border of Louisiana and Texas is the famed Caddo Lake. The 25,400-acre lake and wetland is full of wildlife and a vast ecosystem. It was once the home of the Caddo tribe until they were forcibly removed in the 19th century.

Caddo Lake is best known for the hundreds of bigfoot sightings that have occurred over the years. The sightings began in 1965 and continue to this day. 

20. Home of the Brazos River

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When Spanish settlers saw the Brazos River they called it the Río de los Brazos de Dios, “the River of the Arms of God.” Flowing into the Gulf of Mexico, the river played a vital role in the history of Texas as the border between West Texas and East Texas.

The river also played a critical role in the Texas Revolution, serving as the site for the famous battle between the Mexican Navy and Texas Navy. Indeed, Washington County, formerly Washington-on-the-Brazos, is considered the birthplace of Texas. 

They weren’t built strictly for pleasure, having a strong emphasis on defending against attacks. Many began as primitive castles, but as technology evolved, so did these massive structures. Medieval castles often feature stone, large towers, and moats and for the most part were called home by royalty, nobles, and lords. Below is a look at some of the most famous Medieval castles in history 

13 Medieval Castles That Will Take Your Breath Away

1. Bonjnice Castle

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The breathtaking medieval Bonjnice Castle sits in Bojnice, Slovakia. It’s famous for looking like a castle out of a fairy tale. Many fairy tales and fantasy movies shoot at the location for this reason.

Slovakia’s most famous landmark is the 12th-century Romanesque Medieval castle with Gothic and Renaissance elements. The stone castle came into the possession of Matthew III Csak from King Ladislaus V of Hungary. Eventually, it became one of the most famous tourist attractions in Slovakia. 

2. Windsor Castle

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Windsor Castle has a long and rich history that few other castles share. Often linked with the British royal family, Windsor Castle is an architectural marvel and the longest-occupied castle in Europe. In the 11th century, William the Conqueror led the Norman Invasion of England and built the iconic Medieval castle. During King Henry I’s reign, it became the royal residence of the ruling monarch.

The lavish castle in Berkshire underwent many changes and restoration efforts over the years. The castle started as a simple motte-and-bailey but transformed into a fortified castle and symbol of England’s strength. In the 15th century, the breathtaking Gothic-style St. George’s Chapel was added. 

3. Edinburgh Castle

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Since the Iron Age, humans have lived on Castle Rock, which now occupies Scotland’s most famous tourist attraction, Edinburgh Castle. David I built the castle sometime in the 12th century, and it soon became the center of the Kingdom and a reflection of Scotland’s power.

The Medieval castle played a pivotal role in numerous wars and events. It’s considered the most attacked castle in Great Britain, with 26 sieges occurring since it was built. It’s now a historical location in Scotland visited by hundreds of thousands of tourists every year. 

4. Bran Castle

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In Transylvania sits one of history’s most horrifying locations, Dracula’s castle. Locals refer to the historic Romania landmark as Bran Castle. The Teutonic Order built the wooden fortress in 1212. After the Mongols destroyed the castle, a stone fortress went up in its place in the late 1300s.

In the mid-1400s, Vlad the Impaler ruled from the throne of Bran Castle. Better known as Vlad Dracula, author Bram Stoker used Vlad’s last name as inspiration for his novel Bram Stoker’s Dracula. However, Dracula and his castle bear no resemblance to Vlad or the iconic Bran Castle, although that hasn’t stopped fans from connecting the fictional Dracula Castle to Bran, despite there being no evidence to support that theory. 

5. Malbork Castle

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From 1274 to 1406, Teutonic Knights constructed the then-largest brick castle in the world, Malbork Castle, in Poland. Later, it came into the possession of Poland’s King Casimir IV and remained in the Royal Family until Germany took control for 170 years.

The stunning medieval fortress is a work of art that has experienced several restoration periods. The castle boasts a mausoleum underneath the Chapel of St. Anne and is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Poland. 

6. Hedingham Castle

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In 1086, William the Conqueror awarded Hedingham manor to Aubrey de Vere I who constructed Hedingham Castle. The castle went up around the 12th century, with the keep between 1130 and 1140.

The Medieval castle sits in the village of Hedingham in Essex and is one of the best-preserved medieval structures. It’s often a prime location for filming and photography. It’s also a significant tourist attraction hosting events weekly. 

7. Bodiam Castle

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In 1385, a former knight of King Edward III, Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, built 14th-century Bodiam Castle in East Sussex, England. He aimed to protect the region from a possible French invasion during the Hundred Years’ War. Dalyngrigge put great work into the surrounding landscape, placing it in the middle of an artificial moat. The moat was for defensive purposes but also to make it look bigger.

The quadrangular Medieval castle includes a central courtyard, circular towers on each corner, and a curtain wall. The fantastic castle also contains a great hall, an outstanding kitchen, and a chapel.

It passed down through several generations of different families until the National Trust took control in the 1920s. The Trust continues restoring the historic site, a renowned tourist attraction. Bodiam Castle appears in several movies, notably the comedy classic Monty Python and the Holy Grail. 

8. Corvin Castle

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In the 1400s, construction began on an old keep which soon became the famous Corvin Castle. The Gothic-Renaissance castle is one of the Seven Wonders of Romania.

The imposing structure has stone carvings, tall towers with openings for weapons, and stunning architecture. It also consists of a dining hall, courtyard, and residence. According to legend, Vlad the Impaler was held prisoner in Corvin’s Castle at one point. 

9. Château Gaillard

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In Normandy, France, is the famous bailey castle, Château Gaillard. It’s 59 miles northwest of Paris, overlooking the River Seine. Richard the Lionheart commissioned the construction of in 1196 when he was the King of England and the Duke of Normandy. It was one of the most expensive Medieval castles at the time, but it took only two years to construct. Like many rulers of the time, Richard feared an enemy attack. He ensured the castle had the best defense, including three enclosures, a keep, moats, and machicolations.

In 1204, the King of France, Philip II, conquered the castle after a long battle. France has largely controlled the castle since then. In 1599, King Henry IV ordered it destroyed. Now, only the ruins are left overseeing the land. It’s become a popular tourist attraction, with the inner bailey open during the spring months.

10. Dover Castle

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Evidence suggests that an earthworks castle stood in the location of Dover Castle during the Iron Age in Dover, Kent, England. In AD 43, the Romans invaded, building two lighthouses that still stand in the area to this day. The different ruling powers added, upgraded, and enhanced the primitive castle over the centuries. 

During the reign of King Henry II, Dover Castle began to take shape, becoming a symbol of England. The fortified castle improved its defense capabilities numerous times, adding giant towers, a keep, and a heavy artillery mount.

The tunnels beneath Dover became bomb shelters during World War II. It’s now one of England’s most important historical and archeological locations in the country. In the last few years, the government paid to restore the castle, helping it maintain its grasp on the crown of England’s top tourist attraction. 

11. Warwick Castle

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Many Medieval castles looked gorgeous but didn’t have defensive capabilities like Warwick Castle. The castle in Warwickshire, England is a legendary 14th-century castle and one of the best-fortified Medieval castles in the world. In 1068, William the Conqueror initially built it as a simple wooden motte-and-bailey.

During the 12th century, King Henry rebuilt the castle with stone adding a chapel and multiple rooms. As the Hundred Years War raged on, the front of the castle was refortified, becoming a prime example of 14th-century military architecture.

The front features a drawbridge over a moat, with a dry moat in the back. It remained a vital aspect of the ruling monarch until the 1600s. The Tussauds Group now owns the famous tourist attraction. 

12. Leeds Castle

Tang Yiu Pan/Shutterstock

According to legend, a Saxon chief named Leed or Led built a wooden structure on two islands in the River Len. In the 1200s, it became a Norman stronghold, which turned it into a stone palace known as Leeds Castle. Later, it became the favorite residence of King Edward I.

Since he spent most of his time there, Edward transformed Leeds into a stunning sight, sitting in the middle of a lake. In the 16th century, King Henry VIII used it as a home for his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. It’s now one of the most famous Medieval castles featuring the famous Thorpe Hall drawing room, grand banquet hall, and incredible dining room. 

13. Alnwick Castle

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Alnwick Castle sits near the River Aln in Northumberland. The castle offers stunning landscape views and has undergone extensive restorations over the years. The first part of the castle went up in 1096, with various owners enhancing the residence.

At different times the British and Scottish ruled over the castle. Alnwick Castle is the seat of the 12th Duke of Northumberland, Ralph Percy, who is also the current resident of the fortification. It’s the second longest-occupied royal residence after Windsor Castle and a significant tourist attraction. 

Embark on a captivating journey through the realms of scientific knowledge and uncover fascinating facts as you attempt to answer these science trivia questions without using your phone. It doesn’t matter if you are an avid science enthusiast or simply curious about the wonders that surround us, these questions will challenge and delight and have you wondering more about the world we live in. Get ready to unlock the secrets of the universe and unravel the mysteries that have perplexed mankind for centuries with these epic science trivia questions. 

132 Challenging Science Trivia Questions

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1. Name the New Seven Wonders of the World.

The Great Wall of China, Chichén Itzá, Petra, Machu Picchu, Christ the Redeemer, Colosseum, and the Taj Mahal.

2. Diabetes develops as the result of a problem with which specific organ in the body?

Pancreas.

3. What element did Joseph Priestley discover in 1774?

Oxygen.

4. How many elements are there in the periodic table?

118.

5. The earth has three layers that are different due to varying temperatures. What are its three layers?

Crust, mantle, and core.

6. What is the hardest natural substance on Earth?

Diamond.

7. How old is the planet Earth?

An estimated 4.5 billion years old. 

8. What phenomena keep the planets in orbit around the sun?

Gravity.

9. Bronze is an alloy consisting primarily of what two elements?

Copper and Tin.

10. How many colors are in the rainbow and what are they?

Seven. Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.

11. Which is the most abundant element in the universe?

Hydrogen.

12. Who was the first person to walk on the Moon?

Neil Armstrong.

13. What is the name of the tallest grass on Earth?

Bamboo.

14. How many bones are in the human body?

206.

15. What is the largest star in the solar system?

The Sun. 

16. The Soviet Union launched the first man-made satellite in 1957. What was it called?

Sputnik 1.

17. What is a group of white sharks known as?

A school. 

18. Does sound travel faster in the air or in water?

Water.

19. What causes a solar eclipse?

When the moon moves between the Sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth.

20. Which of Newton’s Laws states that “for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction?”

The third law of motion.

21. Where is the largest desert in the world located?

Antarctica. 

22. What does DNA stand for?

Deoxyribonucleic Acid.

23. How many bones are there in a human foot?

26.

24. What is the smallest planet in the solar system?

Mercury.

25. Which oath of ethics taken by doctors is named after an Ancient Greek physician?

The Hippocratic Oath.

26. What is the largest bone in the body?

The femur. 

27. At what temperatures are Celsius and Fahrenheit equal?

-40.

28. What is the rarest blood type?

AB Negative.

29. The concept of gravity was discovered by which famous physicist?

Sir Isaac Newton.

30. Roughly how long does it take for the Sun’s light to reach Earth?

Eight minutes. 

31. What is the largest organ in the human body?

The skin.

32. Which animal can change direction in midair?

The cheetah.

33. What is it called when you make light change direction by passing it through a lens?

Refraction.

34. How long is the memory of a goldfish?

Several days. 

35. Where is the world’s most active volcano located?

Hawaii.

36. What is the largest land animal alive today?

The African elephant. 

37. Which freezes faster, hot water or cold water?

Hot water. 

38. What is the smallest bone in the body?

The stapes. 

39. Frogs belong to which animal group?

Amphibians.

40. What can sharks sense that humans cannot?

Electricity.

41. Who invented the incandescent light bulb?

Thomas Edison. 

42. How many limbs does an octopus have?

Eight. 

43. What is the heaviest organ in the human body?

The liver.

44. How many bones do sharks have?

Zero. 

45. What part of the brain deals with hearing and language?

The temporal lobe. 

46. The first Nobel Prize was awarded to who?

It was shared between Frédéric Passy and Jean Henry Dunant.

47. Dolly was the first-ever living creature to be cloned. What type of animal was she?

A sheep.

48. How many teeth does an adult have?

32.

49. What process do bats use to locate their prey?

Echolocation.

50. How many sets of wings do bees have?

Two.

51. Which is the only planet that spins clockwise?

Answer: Venus.

52. What is the biggest planet in our solar system?

Jupiter.

53. Animals that eat both plants and meat are called what?

Omnivores.

54. Which two elements on the periodic table are liquids at room temperature?

Mercury and Bromine.

55. What theory did Charles Darwin come up with?

The Theory of Evolution. 

56. Penicillin is used to fight what type of infections?

Bacteria.

57. Which planet is the hottest planet in the solar system?

Venus?

58. How many hearts does an octopus have?

Three. 

59. What is the smallest unit of matter?

An atom.

60. How many states of matter are there and what are they called?

Four. Solid, liquid, gas, and plasma.

61. What is the only bone in the human body that isn’t attached to another bone?

Hyoid bone.

62. Mount Everest grows how much every year?

44 millimeters. 

63. What is the medical term for bad breath?

Halitosis.

64. The study of the weather is called what?

Meteorology.

65. What metal is found at the center of the Earth?

Iron. 

66. How do scientists measure the severity of an earthquake?

They use a device known as a Richter Scale. 

67. Which famous scientist discovered black holes emit radiation that can be detected by special instrumentation?

Stephen Hawking. 

68. What are the four primary precious metals?

Gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.

69. How many continents are there in the world and what are they called?

Seven: Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Australia/Oceania, Europe, North America, and South America.

70. What was Earth’s supercontinent called before it split apart?

Pangea. 

71. Frogs belong to which animal group?

Amphibians.

72.  What does “E” represent in E=MC2?

Energy.

73. How does fat leave your body when you lose weight?

Through your sweat, urine, and breath.

74. Who has more hair follicles, blondes, or brunettes?

Blondes.

75. What does a Geiger Counter measure?

Radiation.

76. Mycology is the scientific study of what?

Fungi.

77. How do you calculate density?

Density is mass divided by volume.

78. Olympus Mons is a large volcanic mountain on which planet?

Mars.

79. Around what percentage of animal species are invertebrates?

95%.

80. How many stars make up the Milky Way?

Approximately 200 billion. 

81. Which psychological concept did Pavlov’s dog help him describe?

Conditioning.

82. What kind of energy does the Sun create?

Nuclear energy.

83. The process of weathered material moving due to gravity is called what?

Erosion.

84. What reaction releases energy into its surroundings?

Exothermic reaction.

85. On what part of your body would you find the pinna?

The ear. 

86. Which form of energy can we see with the naked eye?

Light.

87. What is the deepest part of the ocean known as?

The Mariana Trench.

88. Botulinum toxin is commonly known as what?

Botox.

89. What animal are the closest living relative of a human?

Chimps and bonobos.

90. How many chambers make up the human heart?

Four. 

91. What is a scientist who specializes in the study of cells called?

Cytologist.

92. The first vaccine was for which disease?

Smallpox.

93. What is the largest planet in the solar system?

Jupiter. 

94. Who was the first woman in space? 

Valentina Tereshkova.

95. What flap on your windpipe helps keep out food particles?

Epiglottis.

96. The planet Earth is surrounded by different layers of gas, which when taken together, we call the…?

Atmosphere. 

97. What is the calm center part of a hurricane called?

Eye.

98. How long does a human red blood cell survive?

120 days.

99. In what country can you find the Suez Canal?

Egypt. 

100. What are the lower chambers of the human heart called?

Ventricles.

101. Do male or female seahorses give birth?

Male seahorses. 

102. What is the chemical symbol for lead?

Pb.

103. Laika was the first animal launched into space. What was she?

A dog. 

104. What scientist proposed the theory of continental drift?

Alfred Wegener.

105. An egg’s shell is what percentage of its total weight?

12%.

106. What is considered the highest mountain in Africa?

Mount Kilimanjaro.

107. A unit of electromotive force is called what?

A volt.

108. Between which two planets does the asteroid belt lie?

Jupiter and Mars.

109. What is the scientific term for peeling skin?

Desquamation.

110. In what year was Alaska sold to the United States of America?

1867.

111. What percentage of the total number of known animals are invertebrates?

95%.

112. How many bones are in a giraffe’s neck?

Seven.

113. Who first proposed the concept of contact lenses?

Leonardo da Vinci.

114. What tool is used to measure fluid volume?

Graduated cylinder.

115. Aspirin comes from the bark of what tree?

Willow.

116. What are astronauts called in China?

Taikonauts.

117. Alfred Nobel was the man behind the invention of the Nobel Peace Prize. What did he invent?

Dynamite. 

118. What did Joesph Henry incent in 1831?

The telegraph. 

119. Bright’s Disease affects what part of the body?

The kidney. 

120. What is the only planet in our solar system less dense than water?

Saturn. 

121. This medical term is used to refer to items “based on experience.”

Empiric.

122. What element is named after the Greek word for green?

Chlorine.

123. Where are the most sweat glands located in the human body?

The feet. 

124. What is a lagomorph?

A rabbit.

125. NaCI is the chemical formula of which common substance?

Salt.

126. What color has the longest wavelength in the visible spectrum?

Red. 

127. According to NASA, what mass percentage does the Sun take up in the Solar System?

99.8%.

128. Which animal has fingerprints that closely resemble a human’s fingerprints?

Koala.

129. What wind speed rate indicates that a tropical storm is turning into a hurricane?

74 mph.

130. This relationship between muscles means that one muscle assists the movement of another.

Synergistic.

131. What country experiences the most tsunamis?

Indonesia.

132. Which planet was first discovered using the telescope?

Uranus.

These legendary figures have been romanticized over the years, with the infamous Jesse James, Billy the Kid, and Buffalo Bill all writing themselves into history with their daring exploits that captured the imagination of a nation in search of heroes. Although they portrayed themselves as noblemen fighting against tyranny, many of these outlaws were cold-blooded murderers who killed without remorse. 

Written about in local newspapers and books, the legend of these Old West outlaws continues to have an impact, with many appearing in movies and TV shows that expand on their dirty deeds or try and show them in a better light than they may have first been portrayed. 

“Americans love an underdog, a person who stands up against perceived tyranny,” wrote Bill Markley in Billy the Kid and Jesse James: Outlaws of the Legendary West. “Jesse James and Billy the Kid personify that rebellious spirit. Americans overlook the crimes and see the romance of the rebel.”

The Wild West was home to a host of famous outlaws whose daring exploits captured the imagination of a nation and cemented their place in history. Through their audacious robberies, gunfights, and narrow escapes, these outlaws became the stuff of legends, embodying the romanticized image of the Wild West that continues to amaze people today. 

8 Famous Outlaws From the Wild West

1. Butch Cassidy

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Many know about the outlaw Butch Cassidy thanks to George Roy Hill’s Oscar-winning movie Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. The eldest of 13 children, Robert LeRoy Parker ran away from home as a teenager and started working on various ranches across the mid-west. He committed his first crime in 1880 at the age of 14 when he stole a pair of jeans and a slice of pie but was acquitted. It was until some nine years later that Cassidy found himself on the wrong side of the law again, although this time his crime was much more serious.

Cassidy and three friends robbed the San Miguel Valley Bank in Telluride on June 24, 1889, making off with $21,000. Sadly for Cassidy, he didn’t get much time to spend the loot as he was arrested for stealing horses and spent 18 months behind bars.

It was around 1896 when Cassidy took on his nickname Butch Cassidy – with Butch originating from his time working as a butcher and Cassidy being the name of his mentor, Mike Cassidy – and began his life of crime. He formed the “Wild Bunch” with a group of other outlaws, including Harry Longabaugh, more commonly known as the Sundance Kid, and robbed several banks. He and his gang were also responsible for a number of high-profile train robberies, making off with $70,000 after pulling off the Rio Grande train robbery in New Mexico.

It didn’t take long for Cassidy to become a wanted man, and with the Pinkerton National Detective Agency hot on his heels, he, Sundance, and Etta Place fled to Argentina. While in South America they continued to hold up banks and rob trains and met their demise in a shootout with local authorities while in Bolivia, at least that’s what the history books say.

There are many who speculate Cassidy and Sundance lived out their lives in relative peace. As his body was never identified, we will never know what really happened to one of the most famous outlaws in American folklore. 

2. Jesse James

Grunge/YouTube

Born in Clay County, Missouri, in 1847, Jesse James grew up to become one of the most infamous outlaws in American history. Raised in a Confederate-supporting family, James joined a guerrilla group known as the “bushwhackers” during the war, who were responsible for some heinous crimes. Once the war was over, James still harbored a hatred toward the Union that many historians believe pushed him towards becoming an outlaw.

Forming the James-Younger Gang with his brother Frank, James saw himself as a Robin Hood character who would steal from the rich and give to the poor. Robbing everything from banks and stagecoaches to trains, James and his gang terrorized the South West of America between 1860 and 1882, stealing a reported $200,000. While they were painted in a sympathetic light by friend and newspaper editor John Newman Edwards, James and his gang were ruthless killers who would put a bullet in anyone who got in their way. 

“We are not thieves, we are bold robbers,” James wrote in a letter Edwards published. “I am proud of the name, for Alexander the Great was a bold robber, and Julius Caesar, and Napoleon Bonaparte.” While James did steal from the rich, there are no concrete reports that he gave to the poor.

James’ life of crime came to an end in 1881 when the Governor of Missouri issued a $10,000 reward for the capture of both he and his brother Frank. With much of the gang dead after shootouts with authorities, Jessie, Frank, and the Ford brothers, Charley and Robert, planned on retiring in Virginia. On April 3, 1882, at the age of 34, James was shot and killed from behind by Robert Ford, who was found guilty of murder but pardoned by the governor.

3. Wild Bill Hickok

Everett Collection/Shutterstock

Portrayed on the big screen by big names such as Luke Hemsworth, Jeff Bridges, and Charles Bronson, Wild Bill Hickok was another outlaw whose reputation has been exaggerated over the years. A spy for the Union Army, Hickok was almost killed during a bear attack at age 23. He first found fame after his duel with Davis Tutt over unpaid gambling debuts. The two faced off in Springfield’s town square in the first recorded quick-draw duel, with only Hickok walking away alive. Although he was arrested for murder, the judge let him off, beginning his storied career as an outlaw. 

He became a Deputy Marshall of Kansas and had several run-ins with the Native Americans who lived on the land, claiming to have killed several during shoot-outs without any proof. Hickok eventually achieved the rank of Marshall and killed several more men who were causing disturbances in the towns he was patrolling. His time in law enforcement came to an end after he accidentally killed Special Deputy Marshal Mike Williams during a shoot-out with Phil Cole, who he also killed. 

The death of Williams haunted Hickok for the rest of his life, with the former lawman turning to gambling to fund his extravagant lifestyle. He eventually found himself in the town of Deadwood chasing gold where he met his end playing cards.

On August 1, 1876, Hickok was playing poker when a drunk man named Jack McCall joined. Losing heavily to Hickok, he felt patronized when Wild Bill offered him money to pay for his breakfast. The next day McCall returned to the saloon and shot Hickok at point-blank range in the back of the head while he was in the middle of a game. It’s reported Hickok was holding two pairs: black aces and black eights, which is now known as the “dead man’s hand.”

4. John Wesley Hardin

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A troubled student who tried to join the Confederate army at the age of nine, John Wesley Hardin claimed to have killed 42 men during his life. “I never killed anyone who didn’t need killing,” he famously said. Credited with killing 27 men by the time he hit 21, Hardin was one of the most dangerous men in the American West. 

His first killing came at the age of 15 in November of 1868 when he murdered former slave Major “Maje” Holshousen who he had beaten in a wrestling match the previous day. Knowing he wouldn’t get a fair trial, his father sent him into hiding. Not one to sit around and wait, Hardin became a fugitive of the law, traveling through Texas where he killed several more men, often over disputes involving money. 

Arrested in January 1871 for the murder of city marshal Laban John Hoffman, a crime Hardin denied being involved with, the gunslinger managed to escape from his captors and went back on the run. During this period he became friends with Wild Bill Hickok, married two different women, Jane Bowen and Carolyn Jane “Callie” Lewis, and killed multiple people over various disagreements. 

After almost seven years on the run and with a reward of $4,000 on his head, Hardin was arrested by Rangers on a train in Pensacola, Florida. He was found guilty of killing deputy sheriff Charles Webb and sentenced to 25 years. While he tried to escape several times, Hardin settled into prison life and wrote his autobiography, containing many elaborate tales of his adventures that were unsubstantiated. He served 17 years of his 25-year sentence and was released on February 17, 1894, at the age of 40. 

Obtaining a license to practice law, it seemed as if Hardin was on the straight and narrow, but once an outlaw always an outlaw. After his prostitute girlfriend was arrested for brandishing a pistol in public, Hardin let his temper get the better of him and pistol-whipped the arresting lawman, John Selman Jr. It just so happened that his father, Constable John Selman Sr., was also a famous gunman, and wanting revenge, walked up to Hardin while he was playing cards in the Acme Saloon and shot him in the head. Selman Sr. was found not guilty by a jury and Hardin was buried in El Paso, Texas.

5. Belle Starr

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It wasn’t just the men who ran the Wild West. Notorious outlaw Belle Starr was a convicted horse thief not to be trifled with. Nicknamed the “Bandit Queen,” Starr was another criminal raised in a Confederate family who helped out her brothers that were part of the “bushwhackers” guerrilla group. After the Civil War ended she moved to Texas and married James C. Reed, a bank robber in 1866. He was the first of three outlaws Starr would get together with. After he was killed by police in 1874, Starr married Cherokee Indian Sam Starr in 1880, and finally Jim July sometime around 1886/87.

Settling in Indian Territory with her new husband Sam, Starr learned all about the criminal life and aided Sam in his illegal endeavors. She served time for stealing horses and was arrested again not long after she was released, but this time got acquitted. Unfortunately, Sam was shot and killed during this period, leaving Starr a widow with two children. 

Over the course of the next two years, there was much gossip surrounding Starr and her male acquaintances, with the Missouri-born criminal eventually tying the knot with Jim July, a relative of her former husband Sam Starr. Sadly her life came to an abrupt end on February 3, 1889, when she was shot and killed riding her horse. The violent death – she was shot with a shotgun in the back and then in the face after she had fallen to the ground – was never solved, with several different people believed to have been involved in her death. 

Although she was small fry at the time of her death, Richard K. Fox’s book, Bella Starr, the Bandit Queen, or the Female Jesse James, turned Starr into a legend of the Old West whose story continues to fascinate today. 

6. Billy the Kid

Wikimedia Common

The infamous outlaw Billy the Kid is one of the most recognized names from the Old West. The gunfighter, cattle rustler, and robber was believed to have killed 21 men before he himself took a bullet, dying at the age of 21 while hiding out near Fort Summer. 

Born Henry McCarty and also known to use the alias William H. Bonney, Billy the Kid was orphaned at 15 and first arrested a year later for stealing food. Ten days later he attempted to rob a Chinese laundry and found himself behind bars again, but this time he managed to escape and fled to the Arizona Territory. It was here Billy the Kid made his bones as an outlaw.

After murdering a blacksmith after an argument in August 1877, the Kid crossed over into New Mexico and took up with a group of cattle rustlers known as the Lincoln County Regulators, or Regulators for short. Taking part in the Lincoln County War of 1878, the Kid killed several men and his notoriety grew as local newspapers glorified his exploits.

Sheriff Pat Garrett was the man who finally tracked down the Kid and arrested him in December 1880. Found guilty of killing Lincoln County Sheriff William J. Brady, the Kid was sentenced to hang but escaped jail again. He spent two months on the run before Garrett traced his whereabouts to a cabin near Fort Summer, gunning him down in cold blood on  July 14, 1881, and finally putting an end to the outlaw’s crime spree. 

7. Buffalo Bill 

Donna Beeler/Shutterstock

Born William Frederick Cody, Buffalo Bill claimed to be many things during his life. A solider with the Union Army during the Civil War, Bill also severed in several other conflicts, picking up the Medal of Honor in 1872 for “documented gallantry above and beyond the call of duty” as an Army scout in the Indian Wars.

Bill then found himself contracted to supply buffalo to the Kansas Pacific Railroad workers and was reported to have killed 4,282 buffalo in eighteen months between 1867 and 1868. That’s according to his memoir,  The Adventures of Buffalo Bill Cody, which many think contains exaggerated stories about his life. The book also alleged he got his nickname after having a buffalo shooting competition with fellow hunter Bill Comstock to decide who could call themselves “Buffalo Bill.” Obviously, Bill won, and soon word spread of his exploits. 

But unlike other outlaws, the majority of Bill’s achievements were embellished by the writer Ned Buntline, who wrote an article about Bill and then released the 1869 book Buffalo Bill, King of the Bordermen. Many more novels followed, leading Bill to form a traveling show that toured North America and Europe presenting Bill as the star of many heroic tales that were all made up but presented as fact. A major player in the founding of the town of Cody, Bill lived an adventurous life, passing away at the age of 70 from kidney failure. 

8. Bill Doolin

Wikimedia Common

A member of the Wild Bunch, Bill Doolin was first part of the infamous Dalton Gang, joining in 1891 after he was forced to flee the town of Coffeyville in southeastern Kansas after being involved in a police shooting. The gang wasn’t very successful, with their biggest failure occurring when they tried to rob two banks simultaneously, with four of the gang killed, one arrested, and the sixth member, Doolin, escaping. 

Dooling then formed his own gang that included the likes of outlaws Butch Cassidy, the Sundance Kid, and Oliver Yantis. The group robbed banks and trains and became the most feared group of outlaws in the Old West. The famed Three Guardsmen (lawmen Bill Tilghman, Chris Madsen, and Heck Thomas) were tasked with tracking down the Wild Bunch, pursuing them all across the American West, taking them down one by one. 

While Cassidy and Sundance made their way to South America, Doolin fled to the New Mexico Territory and spent the summer of 1895 in hiding. Instead of staying there where he was safe from the law, Doolin and his wife traveled back into the American Territories, with Doolin finally meeting his match on August 24, 1896, when Deputy US Marshal Heck Thomas blew him away with a shotgun. 

Some classics take a bleak approach or deal with unsettling topics. Books are more powerful than most people realize. A few books managed to amazingly predict future events. While it appears fiction, these classics predicted everything from world wars and ships sinking to new technology and global pandemics. Let’s take a closer look at books that predicted that future.

12 Books That Predicted the Future