These Vintage Photos Prove That Roller Derby Has Always Been Cool

The Derby

In 1929, as the Great Depression took hold of the nation, Seltzer figured out why attendance was dropping at his Oregon cinema chain. The struggling film publicist realized that dance marathons were awarding cash prices to out-of-work contestants, and spectators were drawn to these events over a trip to the movies.

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The More You Know

  • War pigs were used in ancient warfare to counter against war elephants, which feared the pigs (and their squeals) and would bolt. War pigs were sometimes lit on fire to enhance this effect.
  • Parts of the Great Wall of China were made with sticky rice.
  • The CIA reads up to 5 million Tweets a day.
  • Tears contain a natural painkiller, which reduces pain and improves your mood.
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