‘Columbus Set Out to Prove the Earth Was Round’
Columbus Day often brings a re-litigation of what American schoolchildren are taught; one claim is that the Italian explorer was the first to prove that the Earth was round.
The ‘Inspirational’ History of KFC’s Colonel Sanders
The “finger-lickin’ good” restaurateur’s actual life was much messier and more colorful than the memes would have you believe.
Did Kurdish Fighters Help the United States During World War II?
U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks defending a major foreign policy decision were quickly refuted by reputable news organizations.
Do Four in Ten Cancer Patients Really Lose Their Life Savings?
In a pro-Medicare for All tweet, presidential candidate Bernie Sanders said that around 40 percent of cancer patients lose their life savings due solely to the costs of their treatment.
Do Smiling Babies Have to Look Away from People Because They’re ‘Overwhelmed with Joy’?
A popular Reddit r/wholesomememes post claimed that smiling babies “look away” because their fledgling emotions are too much for them to handle.
Disinformation Peddlers Push ‘October 16th’ Conspiracy Theory
A United States Marine Corps directive led to a fresh tide of online bilge attempting to convince readers to be ready for a nonexistent armed insurrection… again.
Was the Original Super Mario Bros Only 40 KB (While Modern Screenshots of One Frame Are 283 KB)?
A popular post repeated a long-circulating piece of Nintendo lore concerning the original size of Super Mario Bros. versus single screenshots of the game today.
Was a Toddler Subjected to Months of Abuse Because of a ‘Cookie’ Analogy?
A viral post presents good advice in the form of a relatable parable, but is it a realistic concern?
Was a Protest Banner Unfurled at Trump’s Las Vegas Hotel?
A clip that went viral protesting the president’s policy move was computer-generated.
’95-Year-Old Former President Jimmy Carter Building a House With a Black Eye’ Meme
A Reddit post and Imgur meme lauded the humanitarian efforts of the former United States leader, who pressed on in his work building homes for people even after a fall.