Today's Mind-blower

10 Real-life Crimes That Became Fictional TV Episodes

Some real-life crime stories are sensational enough to get their own fictional treatment on television. The stories you are about to read are true -- and the names are, too.

    • What if you fell into a black hole?

      science

      What if you fell into a black hole?

      Call up your travel agent because we're booking a one-way flight to an exotic, five-star black hole. What are you in store for on this unique journey?

    • 10 Impressive Art Heists

      entertainment

      10 Impressive Art Heists

      Not all heists are silver-screen worthy, but some stand out for their ingenuity -- or bravado. So how do thieves walk away with near-priceless works?

    • Zap Thy Neighbor - A Sci-Fi Gadgets Quiz

      electronics

      Zap Thy Neighbor - A Sci-Fi Gadgets Quiz

      Are you a science fiction fan? Do you know where your towel is? Can you make the Kessel Run in less than 12 parsecs? Strap on your jetpack and grab your raygun, because it's time to see how much you really know about science fiction gadgets.

    • Six Strings and Git-fiddles: Guitars and Their Players

      entertainment

      Six Strings and Git-fiddles: Guitars and Their Players

      Gibson and Fender became household names thanks to legendary musicians like Hendrix. Strum through this collection of photos to see some of these famous guitarists and their instruments of choice.

    • Amazing Automobiles: Rebuilt by NAPA

      velocity

      Amazing Automobiles: Rebuilt by NAPA

      Watch as Ryan and the NAPA Auto Parts team rejuvenate an old '67 Camaro. With custom detailing and new parts under the hood, this classic car gets a chance to relive her glory days.

    • Could Jack the Ripper have been an artist?

      history

      Could Jack the Ripper have been an artist?

      So much for artists being sensitive -- one Impressionist painter has been fingered as Jack the Ripper. But do the brutalized nudes on his canvases hint at actual murders?

    • Top 10 Most Beautiful Drives in the United States

      adventure

      Top 10 Most Beautiful Drives in the United States

      The road trip is an American tradition, and some drives are simply more beautiful than others. If you're looking to tour the country by car, which scenic routes should you take?

    • From Automotive Dream to Reality: The Concept Car Quiz

      auto

      From Automotive Dream to Reality: The Concept Car Quiz

      The popular image of concept cars is that they're not just leading edge, but bleeding edge: a little too "out there" to be viable, roadable vehicles anytime soon. But the concepts in this quiz show that you can package innovative pizzazz with production-ready practicality.

    • The Changing Tides of Fashion Image Gallery

      history

      The Changing Tides of Fashion Image Gallery

      Fashion has changed dramatically through the years, ever-changing to meet the needs of civilization -- both physically and aesthetically.

    • The Most Embarrassing Moments in the History of Science

      science

      The Most Embarrassing Moments in the History of Science

      What? Scientists get things wrong? We know it’s shocking to hear, but science isn’t always an exact science. Mistakes do happen -- and they often lead to great scientific discoveries. So, grab your safety glasses and see if you can identify the most embarrassing scientific moments ever.

    • 10 Surprisingly Fuel-efficient Sports Cars

      auto

      10 Surprisingly Fuel-efficient Sports Cars

      There’s a saying about sports cars: They can pass anything on the road -- except a gas station. Here are 10 cars that break the stereotypical sports car, gas-guzzler image.

    • A New iPhone, New iPods But No New iPad

      blogs

      A New iPhone, New iPods But No New iPad

      The Apple announcement has come and gone – and it went the way a lot of people expected. Jonathan Strickland covers the iPhone 5 news in the TechStuff blog.

    • How much does planet Earth weigh?

      science

      How much does planet Earth weigh?

      Yep, the Earth is incredibly heavy, but exactly how much are we talking? And how do you figure that out anyway? It’s not like our home planet is hopping on a scale every morning as it meanders through the solar system.

    • Locked and Loaded: Gun Pictures

      science

      Locked and Loaded: Gun Pictures

      Guns come in all shapes and sizes. Put on your safety gear and take a look at this gallery of revolvers, Glocks, shotguns and even flamethrowers.

    • Top 10 Ways to Make Money on the Internet

      electronics

      Top 10 Ways to Make Money on the Internet

      Most of us leave the house every day to go to work and make money. But some people have found a way to run their own Internet business from home. You can do it, too.

    • 10 Futurist Predictions in the World of Technology

      electronics

      10 Futurist Predictions in the World of Technology

      Futurists can dish out some exciting -- and downright scary -- visions for the future of machines and science. Here are 10 of them in the world of technology.

    • 10 Items You Should Always Buy Generic

      money

      10 Items You Should Always Buy Generic

      The average family of four spends anywhere from $536 to $1,212 a month at the supermarket. In this economy, we're looking for every possible way we can cut back. What are some items that you should always buy generic in order to save money?

    • Top 10 Leonardo da Vinci Inventions

      science

      Top 10 Leonardo da Vinci Inventions

      Da Vinci's designs were spectacularly ahead of his time. If they had actually been built, they might have revolutionized the history of technology. What were some of his most imaginative sketches?

    • How many calories do I burn when I laugh?

      science

      How many calories do I burn when I laugh?

      Laughter is good medicine, but you probably won't be asking for a stand-up comedian after you break your arm. As far as your health goes, can a belly laugh help take the inches off your midsection?

    • How Shrunken Heads Work

      people

      How Shrunken Heads Work

      Visitors to remote jungles face several potential dangers. Disease, ferocious animals, deadly plant life, the risk of having your head shrunken … wait, what?

    • Top 10 Most Expensive Houses in the World

      home

      Top 10 Most Expensive Houses in the World

      For most of us, hardwood floors and stainless steel appliances seem like nice upgrades. But the world's most expensive houses have heated driveways, private gyms and movie theaters. Jealous yet?

    • Extreme Sports Pictures

      adventure

      Extreme Sports Pictures

      Some people take to reading or needlepoint, but others need a little more adrenaline on the weekends. Climbing without ropes, jumping from helicopters onto snowy slopes -- what is it that drives people to such extremes?

    • What are the best- and worst-paying jobs?

      money

      What are the best- and worst-paying jobs?

      It's pretty clear that a doctor makes more money than a fast-food worker. But does a surgeon bring home more bucks than an anesthesiologist? Test your knowledge with the ultimate best- and worst-paying jobs quiz.

    • The Monsters of 'Mystery Science Theater 3000'

      entertainment

      The Monsters of 'Mystery Science Theater 3000'

      "Mystery Science Theater 3000" introduced viewers to some of the cheesiest movie monsters ever committed to film. The creatures ranged from ill-conceived radioactive mutants and poorly executed aliens to … um, Torgo. How friendly are you with the monsters of MST3K?

    • How does a logic bomb work?

      computer

      How does a logic bomb work?

      A logic bomb can cripple a company's computer system and either reveal or destroy sensitive information. It's often a tool used by angry employees -- in the IT world, it has a reputation of being associated with "disgruntled employee syndrome."

    • The Master of Muppets: Jim Henson Quiz

      entertainment

      The Master of Muppets: Jim Henson Quiz

      Even if you’re a die-hard fan of “Sesame Street” and “The Muppet Show,” you can’t possibly know all there is to know about Jim Henson and his work … or can you? Take the challenge and find out!

    • Handyman or Hapless? Do you know what tool to use?

      home

      Handyman or Hapless? Do you know what tool to use?

      What tools will get your motor running, get that hole in your wall spackled, or help you fix a leaky pipe? Take this quiz to see if you are a tool-time know-it-all.

    • Could you be a pilot?

      science

      Could you be a pilot?

      Although the wonder of human flight has become commonplace, misinformation and rumors abound about airplanes and air travel. Do you, dear frequent flyer, think you can tackle our quiz?

    • Stuff You Should Know about Transmissions

      auto

      Stuff You Should Know about Transmissions

      A car's transmission enables the engine to provide a wide range of output speeds. Without it, you'd be limited to just one gear. Test your knowledge of both automatic and manual transmissions in this quiz.

    • Fact or Fiction: the Information Superhighway

      computer

      Fact or Fiction: the Information Superhighway

      It's hard to believe that only about 15 years ago, the Internet was a strange new world. Now it's difficult to imagine life without it, but how much do you really know about the Internet?

    • How well do you know exotic cars?

      auto

      How well do you know exotic cars?

      Exotic cars inspire a legion of car enthusiasts to empty their wallets for a taste of life in the fast lane. Will you be at the front of the pack after racing through the exotic car quiz?

    • How much would you pay for a stadium?

      home

      How much would you pay for a stadium?

      Sports stadiums can be gigantic achievements of architecture and art, and it's almost guaranteed that each new one will try to outdo what came before. How much did some of the most famous sports arenas cost?

    • Celebrity Challenge: Steve Jobs

      electronics

      Celebrity Challenge: Steve Jobs

      How much do you know about the quixotic mastermind behind Apple? The black turtleneck and jeans, the theatrical key note speeches and his legendary temper are just a small part of the story.

    • Touchscreen Talent: Have you mastered the iPad?

      computer

      Touchscreen Talent: Have you mastered the iPad?

      Apple has sold tens of millions of iPad tablet computers since their release in 2010. If you haven't touched, tapped or swiped on one, you will soon enough. Get up to speed with our quiz, and find out just how much you know about Apple's iPad.

    • Do you know your commas?

      people

      Do you know your commas?

      Most of us think we know when to use commas and when to leave them out. We went to elementary school, after all. Still, be it all those years without grammar lessons or an initial misunderstanding about this all-important piece of punctuation, so many of us get it wrong from time to time ... do you? Test your comma knowledge and find out if you know your stuff!

    • Can you catch catfish?

      adventure

      Can you catch catfish?

      Old fish, new fish, bold fish, blue fish. It seems that Dr. Seuss was on to something when he wrote "One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish." Take catfish, for example. They're blue, big and bold. But how do you go about making the big catch?

    • Stuff You Should Know's Riot Quiz

      entertainment

      Stuff You Should Know's Riot Quiz

      Riots can break out in an instant, if the right trigger hits at the right time. Trained riot control specialists do a lot more than crack skulls. Grab your shield and take this riot quiz -- if you know what's good for you.

    • The Groundbreaking Earthquake Quiz

      science

      The Groundbreaking Earthquake Quiz

      Earthquakes, like volcanoes, happen all the time -- but most of them are so minor we can't even feel them. They're also similar to volcanoes in that we can't fully predict them, and scientists are always waiting for the next big one to occur.

    • How much would you pay for a mansion?

      home

      How much would you pay for a mansion?

      If you happen to have $100 million lying around, hey, you're in luck! Almost all of these behemoths were actually on the market at press time. Grab your diamond-encrusted cell phone and call your realtor before some other gazillionaire does.

    • Car Pop Quiz: Differentials

      auto

      Car Pop Quiz: Differentials

      Usually, differentials are where a car's power makes its last stop before spinning the wheels. They also enable those wheels to rotate at different speeds. Find out how well your wheels are spinning with the differential quiz.

    • Are you an Albert Einstein expert?

      science

      Are you an Albert Einstein expert?

      Albert Einstein was a pretty smart guy. When you look up the word "genius" in the dictionary, so the saying goes, it's a pretty safe bet you'll see Einstein's mug. He introduced concepts that we're still figuring out how to explain.

    • Fact or Fiction: HDTV

      electronics

      Fact or Fiction: HDTV

      Even if you own a high-definition television, you might not be exactly sure how it works or how to optimize your viewing experience. This quiz won't tell you what HDTV is best for you, but it might help you sort out some of the mystery.

    • Fact or Fiction: Facebook

      computer

      Fact or Fiction: Facebook

      With more than 800 million members and counting, Facebook is one of the fastest-growing phenomena to come out of a college dorm room. What do you know about Facebook?

    • The '00s: Top 50 Questions of the Decade

      history

      The '00s: Top 50 Questions of the Decade

      Time magazine declared the first 10 years of the 21st century the "Decade from Hell" -- what else would you call a decade that started off with the deadliest terrorist attack in history and ended with global economic collapse? How well you remember the events that happened in the years from 2000 through 2009?

    • Could you be a military sniper?

      entertainment

      Could you be a military sniper?

      Military snipers have been great fodder for video games and movies, and they're just as interesting in reality. Test out your skills here on Stuff You Should Know's military sniper quiz.

    • How do GPS receivers work?

      electronics

      How do GPS receivers work?

      GPS receivers are nifty gadgets that are used all over the world. How knowledgeable are you regarding GPS receivers? Take this quiz and find out.

    • The Ultimate Meteorite Quiz

      science

      The Ultimate Meteorite Quiz

      Meteors and meteorites have fascinated human beings for ages, but have you managed to turn your fascination into some hardcore knowledge? Wishing on a star isn't going to help you now.

    • How much do you know about motorcycle rallies?

      auto

      How much do you know about motorcycle rallies?

      Motorcycle rallies and rides have a long, rich history in America. For many riders, they're a source of great pride and inspiration; for others, a chance to escape from everyday life and make new friends. In this quiz, we'll talk about the history, geography and demographics of some of the country's most famous biker rallies. Get ready to test your rally knowledge!

    • The Ultimate Home Repair Quiz

      home

      The Ultimate Home Repair Quiz

      There are two basic types of homeowner: the do-it-yourselfer, and the kind who immediately calls in the handyman when there's a leak. But there's hope for the home-repair averse. This quiz will show you that it's not so hard to do it yourself.

    • Which gadget came first?

      electronics

      Which gadget came first?

      You buy a tiny phone one day, and a tinier, cooler one will come out tomorrow and make yours obsolete. But not too long ago, it was a big deal when some of these gadgets launched. Can you remember which of these iconic products appeared on the market first?

    • 5 Countries That Ditched Their Military Forces

      science

      5 Countries That Ditched Their Military Forces

      As Benjamin Franklin once quipped: "There never was a good war or a bad peace." That's why these five countries have gotten out of the military business entirely.

    • 10 Strange Islands

      adventure

      10 Strange Islands

      Abandoned cities, haunted buildings, eccentric rituals and unexplained relics -- what bizarre stories do these peculiar islands have to tell?

    • 10 iPad Apps for Home Organization

      computer

      10 iPad Apps for Home Organization

      Organizing your home is never easy, but there are ways to simplify the process. Until they invent technology that will actually do the work for you, these apps will help you get everything done.

    • Top 10 Famous Female Sideshow Freaks

      entertainment

      Top 10 Famous Female Sideshow Freaks

      From the Two-Headed Nightingale to the Baboon Lady, these 10 female sideshow freaks sure knew how to put on a show. But what were their real stories?

    • 10 Medieval Torture Devices

      history

      10 Medieval Torture Devices

      Torture was a very popular form of punishment in the Middle Ages, but it also served as a social deterrent and as entertainment for the masses. These 10 devices show how creative torturers became with their tools in an effort to wow the crowds.

    • 10 Easy Ways to Save Money

      money

      10 Easy Ways to Save Money

      Building a financial future, whether for retirement or simply for attaining your personal goals, all starts with saving. What are some easy ways to stash some cash for later?

    • 10 Mundane Traditions with Strange Origins

      people

      10 Mundane Traditions with Strange Origins

      Sometimes, there are things we do as part of a tradition without really considering where the practices may have started. What are some the common traditions we take part in today that may have surprising origins?

    • 10 Restaurant Chains that Flopped

      money

      10 Restaurant Chains that Flopped

      If you're hungry for a Lums steamed hotdog, a Gino Giant burger drenched in sauce or some Chi-Chi's nachos, well, that's too bad. Those restaurant chains no longer exist.

    • 10 Materials Keeping Your House Warm

      home

      10 Materials Keeping Your House Warm

      Most of us know that a house must have a well-insulated building envelope to be structurally sound. But we may not know how important this shell really is. These are 10 types of insulation that can protect your home.

    • 10 Most Stressful Jobs in America

      money

      10 Most Stressful Jobs in America

      Unemployment can cause stress, but some jobs are more stressful than others. The next time you find yourself sweating over some deadline, remember that some people get paid to risk their lives -- or save the lives of others -- every single day.

    • 10 Tips for Your Job Search

      money

      10 Tips for Your Job Search

      From creativity to networking to tech-savviness, the modern-day job hunt requires a little more than it once did. What can you try when looking to make your next career move?

    • 10 Noteworthy Exploitation Films

      entertainment

      10 Noteworthy Exploitation Films

      Sex, violence and over-the-top action -- it's easy to see the influence that exploitation movies have had on cinema as a whole. You can even split the genre into a number of subgenres that push the boundaries of taste and decorum with every frame. Here are 10 of the most noteworthy.

    • 10 Recession-proof Businesses

      money

      10 Recession-proof Businesses

      During an economic downturn such as the one we're in now, people look for businesses that are likely to weather the storm. But is any business truly recession-proof?

    • 10 Fuel-saving Device Hoaxes

      auto

      10 Fuel-saving Device Hoaxes

      For as long as we've complained about gas prices, there's been an army of inventors offering devices to stretch our mileage further. But which ones work and which are hoaxes?

    • 10 Tips for Retirement Savings

      money

      10 Tips for Retirement Savings

      At some point, you'll likely want to stop working. You'll also have to figure out how to pay the bills once you retire. Here are 10 tips to help you out.

    • 10 Most Expensive ZIP Codes to Live In

      home

      10 Most Expensive ZIP Codes to Live In

      Ever wonder where the rich and famous live in the United States? Wonder no more. While there are hundreds of possibilities, we'll narrow it down to the top 10, including the havens for longtime bearers of wealth and the up-and-comers of the country's elite.

    • Top 10 Most Beautiful Drives in the United States

      adventure

      Top 10 Most Beautiful Drives in the United States

      The road trip is an American tradition, and some drives are simply more beautiful than others. If you're looking to tour the country by car, which scenic routes should you take?

    • 10 Cutting-edge, Energy-efficient Building Materials

      home

      10 Cutting-edge, Energy-efficient Building Materials

      The drive for energy-efficient building comes down to a quest for the so-called tight envelope, which you can often achieve using renewable, recycled material. What are some of the latest energy-efficient building materials?

    • 10 Unforgettable Street Food Destinations

      adventure

      10 Unforgettable Street Food Destinations

      In cities across the United States, entrepreneurs in carts and trailers are offering some of the most original, authentic and creative dishes in town.

    • 10 Most Sought-after Classic Muscle Cars

      musclecars

      10 Most Sought-after Classic Muscle Cars

      The sleek lines, powerful engines and machine strength of muscle cars have attracted us since the late 1960s, when performance and design filtered down into the realm of the attainable. So what are the most wanted classic muscle cars today?

    • Top 5 Tips for Using Twitter

      computer

      Top 5 Tips for Using Twitter

      Before you start chirping your innermost thoughts on this social networking Web site, take a look at this list of tips. What does a Twitter beginner need to know?

    • 10 Political Scandals

      people

      10 Political Scandals

      Politicians have given the world plenty to talk about over the years. On this list of 10 political scandals, from Watergate to the Profumo Affair, which had the most extreme consequences?

    • 10 Most Popular McDonald's Menu Items of All Time

      money

      10 Most Popular McDonald's Menu Items of All Time

      If you can name the product behind this jingle -- double-double, cheese-cheese, burger-burger, please -- then you already have one out of 10 right. What else makes the cut?

    • 10 Famous Curses

      people

      10 Famous Curses

      Everybody has bad days, but Fortune seems to have it in for some people. You decide: Are these 10 infamous cases of bad luck coincidences or curses?

    • 5 Strange Items Developed from NASA Technology

      science

      5 Strange Items Developed from NASA Technology

      Many commercial products based on NASA research are a part of our everyday lives. Some things, however, are more unusual than others. Check out our list of five strange items developed from NASA technology.

    • 10 Most Destructive Storms

      science

      10 Most Destructive Storms

      Witch homicide aside, Dorothy was lucky that her home safely traveled to Oz after the tornado. Many people who lived through the storms on our list were left with nothing.

    • 5 Tips for Picking the Right Smartphone

      electronics

      5 Tips for Picking the Right Smartphone

      Lots of people feel completely lost when choosing a smartphone. But with a little time and a little research, it's easy to figure exactly what you need, what you want and what you can do without.

    • Famous Historical Couples

      history

      Famous Historical Couples

      When these men and women weren't composing poetry, combating the Great Depression or committing mass genocide, they were sharing their lives with their equally famous other halves. They may be revered (or reviled) for the deeds that secured their presence in history books and pop culture, but they were also loved.

    • Volcanoes

      science

      Volcanoes

      Whether it's a solitary dome showing off a delicate smoke plume or a crack spewing out a fiery river, a volcano can be a stunning sight. This photo tour will take you to some of the Earth's most dramatic -- and show you the effects of some of their biggest eruptions.

    • Robots

      science

      Robots

      Adorable like ASIMO, or creepy like the world's most lifelike androids: Today's robots take on a range of shapes and sizes. But they're not all humanoid. This gallery also shows off a few that are inspired by the animal kingdom.

    • Genetics at Work

      science

      Genetics at Work

      You can thank your genes for more than just your physical appearance. These pictures will walk you through some of the other jobs your genes have to do.

    • Paradise

      adventure

      Paradise

      What's paradise for you? Relaxing in solitude on a white sand beach? Frolicking through lavender fields in France? Take a virtual vacation to the most blissful places on Earth with these pictures of paradise.

    • Home Construction

      home

      Home Construction

      What does it take to build a house from scratch? See the step-by-step process of building a house in these home construction pictures.

    • TV Shows

      electronics

      TV Shows

      Can you name the longest-running TV show, the longest-running animated series, the most watched show finale? Take a look at these TV show pictures to learn fun facts and trivia about the most popular shows in history.

    • Space Exploration

      science

      Space Exploration

      Mankind has only just begun to explore the vastness of space. Find out what we've learned about the universe so far with these pictures.

    • Green Science

      science

      Green Science

      From wind power to recycling, how do eco-friendly applications apply to scientific disciplines? Take a look at these pictures to learn about the science of being green.

    • Classic Muscle Cars

      musclecars

      Classic Muscle Cars

      See pictures of everyone's favorite fast, powerful, gas guzzling cars from the '60s and '70s. They may not be eco-friendly, but they sure were fun while they lasted.

    • Trees

      home

      Trees

      Stroll through the world of walnuts, maples, redwoods and more with these pictures of our favorite varieties of trees.

    • Green Your Shopping Pictures

      science

      Green Your Shopping Pictures

      It is not always easy to go green, but we can help. Use this gallery to get easy tips on how to change your shopping list and go green.

    • Storms

      science

      Storms

      Thunderstorms are some of the most impressive and destructive elements of nature. This amazing collection of images highlights some of the features of storms.

    • Computer Hardware

      computer

      Computer Hardware

      What's inside your computer? Browse through these computer hardware pictures and take a tour of your PC, from RAM to hard drives and everything in between.

    • Video Game Systems

      electronics

      Video Game Systems

      Video games have become an incredibly popular -- and diverse -- pastime since their introduction. Explore the history of video game systems, from the Atari to the Xbox 360.

    • iPods

      electronics

      iPods

      Introduced in 2001, iPods have undergone an incredible transformation in their relatively short lifespan. From the click wheel to the touchscreen, see pictures of iPod variations through the years.

    • Red Carpet Royalty

      entertainment

      Red Carpet Royalty

      You can hardly go through the grocery checkout line without spotting these celebrities' faces on the covers of magazines. See pictures of movie stars, directors, famous musicians and more.

    • Battle of Gettysburg

      history

      Battle of Gettysburg

      The Battle of Gettysburg was fought July 1 through July 3, 1863, in Gettysburg, Pa. Check out this image gallery for scenes from this major turning point in the Civil War.

    • Nebulae

      science

      Nebulae

      Nebulae are some of the universe's most distinctive formations. Some of the most amazing star-making regions in space are highlighted in this collection of nebula pictures.

    • Trucks

      auto

      Trucks

      Truck owners can list countless reasons for their reliance on their rigs. Ready to see some of the coolest models out there, including classic models and cutting-edge concepts?

    • Awesome Architecture

      home

      Awesome Architecture

      From the onion-shaped towers of St. Basil's Cathedral in Russia to Indonesia's Ultun Danu Temple, browse this gallery to see some of the most incredible architectural wonders the world has to offer.

    • Skydiving

      adventure

      Skydiving

      Who would jump out of a plane intentionally? Hundreds of thousands of people, and they do it millions of times every year. See what it's like to be at gravity's mercy, with only a sheet of nylon to save you.

    • College

      people

      College

      High school is over -- now what? For many new graduates, higher education is the logical next step. Find out what it takes to get into college -- and how to afford it -- in this gallery.

    • Fractals

      science

      Fractals

      Fractals are essentially visual representations of math -- and they can be beautiful. This gallery explores some of the most interesting designs in the world of fractals.

    • Tax Criminals

      money

      Tax Criminals

      The only things sure in life are death and taxes -- and no one knows that better than this unfortunate crew of criminals. If you think that audits are scary, take a look at this international rogue's gallery of people who got slapped with the worst the tax man had to offer. And yes, that includes jail time.

    • Classic Cars

      auto

      Classic Cars

      Ready to take a stroll down memory lane? See pictures of the rarest, most sought after classic cars from the 20th century's most renowned automakers.

    • Barack Obama

      history

      Barack Obama

      Barack Obama was elected the 44th president of the United States after a hotly contested primary race and general election. Check out photos from his life and the 2008 Obama campaign in this gallery.

    • Men of War

      history

      Men of War

      Learn about the real-life heroes and villains in the world's wars, from Roman conquests to the War on Terror.

    • Not Quite Normal

      videos

      Not Quite Normal

      From the elastic man and firewalkers to molecular gastronomy and android technologies, meet extraordinary personalities and learn incredible facts in these videos from Discovery's One Step Beyond.

    • Astronomical Risks: How Astronauts (Narrowly) Survive Space

      videos

      Astronomical Risks: How Astronauts (Narrowly) Survive Space

      Disaster struck the Apollo 13 lunar landing mission on April 13, 1970, when an oxygen tank exploded. How did the astronauts get back to Earth safely?

    • Yep, People Are Still Hunting Dinosaurs

      videos

      Yep, People Are Still Hunting Dinosaurs

      Earth is an amazing planet. Learn all about this rock that we call home and what's going on in the ground beneath our feet with these videos from HowStuffWorks.

    • Stuff to Blow Your Kid's Mind

      videos

      Stuff to Blow Your Kid's Mind

      Monsters. Rainbows. Magnets. Volcanoes. Kids love 'em. (We do, too.) These videos showcase a variety of wild, weird and fascinating topics to make your offspring's jaws drop.

    • What does it take to set a Guinness World Record?

      videos

      What does it take to set a Guinness World Record?

      Watch as people attempt to break a variety of world records, including creating the biggest Mentos-Coke geyser and donning a coat of killer bees.

    • The MacGyver Moves of Ancient Empires

      videos

      The MacGyver Moves of Ancient Empires

      How did Egyptians actually build those gigantic pyramids? Why did ancient Chinese engineers design the batten sail? Learn more about history's great engineering feats in this playlist.

    • Google + You? Jonathan Strickland on Social Networks

      videos

      Google + You? Jonathan Strickland on Social Networks

      Since Google is famous for keeping products in a prolonged beta state and tinkering with them long after their release, it's a safe bet that Google+ will probably incorporate new innovations in the future. But what could they be? Ben and TechStuff's Jonathan Strickland look at the present and future of Google's social network.

    • Killer Mutants, the Apocalypse and You

      videos

      Killer Mutants, the Apocalypse and You

      It seems as if people have been predicting the end of the world since the beginning of civilization -- but how could it actually happen? Check out this playlist to learn how (and when) experts believe the world could end.

    • Why You're Moving To The City (in the Future)

      videos

      Why You're Moving To The City (in the Future)

      From religion in space to digital immortality, the future is full of profound challenges and astonishing opportunities. Join the staff of HowStuffWorks.com as we explore some of the most promising -- and perplexing -- global issues of the future.

    • Rabbits, Corpses and the Contact Lens

      videos

      Rabbits, Corpses and the Contact Lens

      Whether it’s the flexible straw or the search engine, every invention has a story. Get a closer look at the inventors responsible from everything to dishwashers to dynamite in this animated series by HowStuffWorks.com.

    • Real Life in Slow-Mo

      videos

      Real Life in Slow-Mo

      Life moves pretty fast, and your eyes and brain simply can't take it all in -- until now. Take a moment to glimpse these videos taken with high-speed photography to see what exactly you're missing, from air bag deployment to sumo wrestling.

    • The Good, the Bad and the Weird: Strange Planes

      videos

      The Good, the Bad and the Weird: Strange Planes

      How does aerial refueling work? What about unmanned drones? Take a close-up look at planes the Wright brothers never dreamed of in this Discovery playlist.

    • Your First Dream Home Doesn't Have to be a Nightmare

      videos

      Your First Dream Home Doesn't Have to be a Nightmare

      There are no ifs, ands or buts about it: Buying your first home is a monumental decision. So how can you find your dream house without making those infamous rookie mistakes? Check out this series for some valuable tips.

    • Can virtual reality help us predict earthquakes?

      videos

      Can virtual reality help us predict earthquakes?

      With the rise of digital technology, virtual reality is becoming more and more a part of our lives. Learn how virtual reality can help humanity in the real world.

    • World Governments Really Did Hire Psychic Soldiers

      videos

      World Governments Really Did Hire Psychic Soldiers

      From UFOs to psychic powers and government conspiracies, history is riddled with unexplained events. Get a closer look at the Stuff They Don't Want You to Know in these videos.

    • Watch This Before Your Car Breaks Down

      videos

      Watch This Before Your Car Breaks Down

      Winter can be hard on your vehicle. Now that spring is here, it's a good idea to make sure your ride is in tip-top shape. Learn more about taking care of your car in these videos.

    • How to Make (Almost) Everything

      videos

      How to Make (Almost) Everything

      Have you ever wondered how acoustic guitars get their sounds, or how binoculars can home in on objects from afar? If so, this is the playlist for you. Watch as the Science Channel breaks down everything from cap guns to carburetors in this series.

    • Can your own hands turn against you?

      videos

      Can your own hands turn against you?

      Can humans cause earthquakes? What the heck is alien hand syndrome? Join Chuck and Josh as they explore the some of the coolest (and weirdest) Stuff You Should Know in their television shorts on Science.

    • How to Build Pinball Machines without Electrocuting Yourself

      videos

      How to Build Pinball Machines without Electrocuting Yourself

      Almost every kid has a favorite toy -- but how do they actually get made? Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the world's favorite toys, from pinball machines to crayons and more.

    • In a Parallel Universe You've Already Clicked This Link

      videos

      In a Parallel Universe You've Already Clicked This Link

      Don't let all the science fiction stories fool you: The theory of quantum mechanics is real, and it's been around since the 1920s. Check out this series to get a closer look at the weird world of quantum physics.

    • How did a 14-year-old invent television?

      videos

      How did a 14-year-old invent television?

      Watch as HowStuffWorks staff members explore the history and future of film and television, from television sets to silver screens.

    • Yes, They Will Cane You in Singapore

      videos

      Yes, They Will Cane You in Singapore

      Gaze at the swans of Hokkaido, walk along the Great Wall of China and visit the "Golden City" of Rajasthan, as the hosts of The Coolest Stuff on the Planet explore Asia.

    • The Most Important Things So Far, Seriously

      videos

      The Most Important Things So Far, Seriously

      Human history is marked by a continual series of discoveries… but which ones have made the most difference? In this playlist, the Science Channel explores the stories behind history's most crucial discoveries, from blood transfusions to astronomy.

    • What are the risks in creating synthetic life?

      videos

      What are the risks in creating synthetic life?

      Is human cloning possible? Is cloned beef safe to eat? Find out the answers to these questions and more in these cloning videos.

    • Real-life Sci-Fi Weapons Coming to a Future Near You

      videos

      Real-life Sci-Fi Weapons Coming to a Future Near You

      Just what kind of sci-fi heat will the soldiers of the future really be packing? Get a glimpse of upcoming military technologies and how they might be used in these videos.

    • Geeks, Nerds and Why They're Completely Different

      videos

      Geeks, Nerds and Why They're Completely Different

      What is the etymology of the word "geek"? Who invented the crossword puzzle? What is Esperanto? Learn about the origins of words and the evolution of language with these videos from Stuff You Should Know, Stuff From the Future and The Stuff of Genius

    • Lost in Migration

      entertainment

      Lost in Migration

      Can you keep up with the flock? Do you remember which direction they were going? Exercise your brain and improve your attention span with Lost in Migration. Don’t get left behind, play Lost in Migration today!

    • Sudoku

      games

      Sudoku

      Sudoku is the hottest game in America, and we have free online sudoku for you here every day.

    • Build-a-lot 2: Town of the Year

      games

      Build-a-lot 2: Town of the Year

      Use your keen eye to pick the right locations to build parks and shops. Pick your paint colors, upgrades and landscaping to create the ultimate curb appeal and earn outstanding profits with Build-a-lot 2: Town of the Year!

    • Chuzzle

      games

      Chuzzle

      Chuzzles are googly-eyed little balls of fur that giggle, squeak and sneeze as you poke and push them across the board. Free them by forming groups of three, but watch out for dangerous puzzle locks! Explore four different game modes as you earn trophies, unlock secret games and more! Once you start popping Chuzzles you might not be able to stop!

    • Governor of Poker 2

      games

      Governor of Poker 2

      Show your hold'em skills in the all-new Governor of Poker 2, a masterful poker adventure set in the Wild West!

    • Royal Envoy ™

      games

      Royal Envoy ™

      Take the king's challenge in Royal Envoy™, and think your way to triumph in this whimsical resource management experience.

    • Super Collapse! Puzzle Gallery

      games

      Super Collapse! Puzzle Gallery

      Super Collapse! Puzzle Gallery is a puzzle party! Are you a puzzle genius? It isn't as easy as it looks!

    • Solitaire Heaven

      games

      Solitaire Heaven

      Solitaire isn't just a solo game anymore! Play the largest selection of Solitaire games on Facebook - Klondike, Pyramid, Spider, Crescent and Freecell! Challenge your friends, collect game boosts and more.

    • Jack of all Tribes

      games

      Jack of all Tribes

      Guide the tribe to construct useful buildings, collect needed resources and decorate the landscape. They will then reward you with tributes and helpful items to make it through. Introduce new technologies, play fun Hidden Object mini-games and earn fantastic rewards in Jack of all Tribes!

    • Letters from Nowhere 2

      games

      Letters from Nowhere 2

      Search through over 30 cryptic locations including the sinister mansion and a bloody sacrifice room for important artifacts. Find items quickly to score bonus points that help unlock four useful search powers and two bonus play modes. Will you uncover the town's many hidden secrets and save Audrey's husband?

    • Table Hockey Ultra

      games

      Table Hockey Ultra

      Enjoy a round of table hockey anytime you want with this exciting online version of the popular arcade game!

    • Hidden Magic

      games

      Hidden Magic

      Use magic spells to save your loved one from goblins in Hidden Magic, a fantastic adventure that blends Hidden Object game play with fun magical battles.

    • Farm Mania 2

      games

      Farm Mania 2

      Leave the big city behind for good in Farm Mania 2, the fantastic follow-up to the hit farming game!

    • Fishdom - Seasons Under the Sea™ - 3 in 1

      games

      Fishdom - Seasons Under the Sea™ - 3 in 1

      Get into the festive spirit of Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas as you build up underwater fish kingdoms filled with holiday cheer tackling Fishdom - Seasons Under the Sea™ - 3 in 1!

    • Crab Fishing Game

      adventure

      Crab Fishing Game

      Have you got what it takes to skipper a crab boat on the Bering Sea? Take charge of your own vessel and see if you can survive a season of derby style king crab fishing.

    • Jane's Realty

      games

      Jane's Realty

      Jane is back again! She has restored her family hotel network and opened a boutique, and now she is ready to start leasing houses! Help her build a whole city, complete with electric power stations and water towers, houses for rent, stores, restaurants and even a city hall!

    • Airport Mania 2 - Wild Trips

      games

      Airport Mania 2 - Wild Trips

      Return to the skies and visit incredible destinations in this amazing sequel, where you guide colorful planes through landings, take-offs and everything in-between. Take on the challenge of all-new, creative levels in some of the most astounding places, including the North Pole, Monsterville, Tiki Taka Island and even the moon!

    • Ancient Secrets

      games

      Ancient Secrets

      Discover a rich world filled with incredible fun in Ancient Secrets, a bold new adventure for all ages.

    • Klondike Solitaire Gold

      games

      Klondike Solitaire Gold

      This is the ultimate game for Solitaire lovers –- and it’s free! Does it get any better than that? We tend to think not. Play Klondike Solitaire today and see what you’re missing!

    • Mahjongg

      games

      Mahjongg

      The challenge in Mahjongg online is finding all the matching tiles while working your way through the pile. Can you take on the challenge of the tiles?

    • Memory Matrix

      entertainment

      Memory Matrix

      Quick, take a mental snapshot! Can you recall and reproduce the pattern that you just saw? The Memory Matrix game will put your attention span and intelligence to the test. Exercise your mind and play Memory Matrix!

    • Jigsaw: Intermediate

      games

      Jigsaw: Intermediate

      With these free jigsaw puzzle games, you won't have to worry about losing a piece under the dining room table.

    • Mahjongg Dark Dimensions

      games

      Mahjongg Dark Dimensions

      The new puzzle classic returns with yet another twist!

    • Cradle of Rome 2

      games

      Cradle of Rome 2

      With extra Blitz and Tourney modes, 28 trophies, medals, achievement cups and three difficulty settings, becoming Emperor of Rome will lavish you with exhilarating rewards.

    • Volcano Explorer

      science

      Volcano Explorer

      Volcanoes are pressure valves that release energy from deep within Earth. Learn about different types of volcanoes and create your own virtual volcano with the Volcano Explorer.

    • Dreamsdwell Stories

      games

      Dreamsdwell Stories

      Build a colorful fantasy world by gathering magic orbs in Dreamsdwell Stories, a fun match-three game with a twist.

Stuff You Should Watch

image of the day

quiz of the day

Up Close and Personal: The Ultimate Paparazzi Quiz
TAKE THE CHALLENGE
Up Close and Personal: The Ultimate Paparazzi Quiz
Average: 0 points | 20 Questions

Which film is credited with the origin of the term "paparazzi"?

illustration of the day

stuff of the day

Did you know: Bruster's diamond-encrusted ice cream cone is a special treat, weighing in at 152.16 carats and retailing for $1 million. The cone was designed by Lazare Kaplan in the likeness of Bruster's cherry vanilla ice cream waffle cone. Another random fact

“Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored.” Who said it?

poll: what do you think?

Which fall coffee flavor is your favorite?

all about inventions