In Georgian England, interior walls were often painted in pale greens, soft blues, and creams designed to amplify the glow of a single, expensive candle.
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data, Tesla’s Texas robotaxis crash four times more often than human drivers.
According to a study published in Current Biology, scientists learned that a whinnying horse is essentially whistling and singing at the same time. Also, farm horses are chattier than feral horses.
China has one official time zone even though the country spans five geographic time zones.
The phrase “spitting image” came about after the American Revolution when America was trying to distance itself from England. The original phrase replaced “spirit image of his father” but evolved over time.
The above is information that Mr. Smarty Pants read in a book, magazine, or newspaper; heard on the radio; saw on television; or overheard at a party. Got facts? Write to Mr. Smarty Pants. Why not visit mrsmartypants.com?
This article appears in March 27 • 2026.