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Melissa Sartore - Lists at Ranker

Unsettling Images

History

There are images from the past that capture our eyes and our imaginations in ways we can't quite explain. They're enthralling and really speak to us - so much so that we go back and look at them over and over.&nbsp;The more you <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/unintentionally-creepy-photos-stories-history/melissa-sartore">look at a photo</a>, especially one from history, the more you're likely to see. These <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/unsettling-historical-photos/brenden-donnelly">historical images </a>were somewhat disturbing when we first saw them, but we couldn't look away. Now that we've spent more time gazing at them, we have to admit that we're even more shaken than we were at first. The details, the stories behind them, the context from which they came - all of this just makes them even more troubling. &nbsp;

11 Historic Photos That Get More Disturbing The Longer We Look At Them - And Why

General

Melissa Sartore

Just because someone is fictional, deceased, or an entire universe doesn't stop Ranker from tossing them into Battle Royale-type tournaments against their worthiest foes.

Choose Your Fighter

Weird History

Many of the Disney princesses and heroines hold special places in the hearts and minds of people of all ages. We know their names, we sing along with them, we are well-versed in their stories - we feel like we actually know them. But, do they know each other? And, more importantly, would they get along if they did?<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/things-you-didnt-know-about-disney-princesses/anna-lindwasser">Disney princesses </a>and heroines go from rags to riches, rise above difficult circumstances, and are generally good-natured, humble beings. This <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/dark-details-disney-princesses/tpetersccc">doesn't mean</a> they're not divas though - especially once they've gotten everything their respective heart's desire. Get all of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/disney-heroines-arent-official-princesses/molly-weinfurter">Disney leading ladies</a> in a room and it could very well turn into one of the most contentious events to ever go down in the history of animation. We wouldn't mind seeing it, actually, and can't help but wonder who would come out still standing when an inevitable cat fight broke out.&nbsp;Imagine Ariel pulling the heck out of Rapunzel's hair or Cinderella throwing one of those glass slippers at Elsa's head. We absolutely think Mulan would pack a mean punch while Nala and Kiara are, you know, actual cats. We're letting our imaginations run while as we lock all of the Disney princesses and heroines into a confined pace and sit back just to see what happens.&nbsp;Who do you think is going to win?&nbsp;

Which Disney Princesses Would Win In A Cat Fight?

Fictional Character

Lists about the true stories that inspired books, films, TV, and other stories you think you know. 

What Really Happened

The 2017 book Killers of the Flower Moon, written by David Grann, is based on his own investigations into the systematic theft and brutality committed against members of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/native-american-history-facts/setareh-janda">the Osage Nation</a>. The movie of the same name, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/every-de-niro-scorsese-movie-ranked/rylee_en">directed by Martin Scorsese</a>, is based on Grann's work and emphasizes the relationship between Mollie Burkhart and her husband, Ernest, as the conspiracy to eliminate members of her family unfolds around them.Killers of the Flower Moon offers a glimpse into a relatively unknown historical event defined by racial injustice, greed, and murder. The true crime story reveals a dark chapter in US history as land, money, oil, and love brought death and devastation to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/derogatory-native-american-tribe-names/melissa-sartore">the Osage Nation</a> during the early 20th century.&nbsp;Much of what happens in Killers of the Flower Moon defies understanding - especially from a modern vantage point. The happenings before, during, and after the events of Killers of the Flower Moon are complicated and gut-wrenching, all of which make the true story behind it that much more compelling.&nbsp;

The True Story Behind 'Killers Of The Flower Moon'

The True Story Behind 'Killers of the Flower Moon' And The Osage Murders

50 states, 50 unique personalities, 1 country (with an identity crisis). This is America!

United States of Mind

No two US states are alike - which is both good and bad. There are states with beaches, states with mountains, states with nothing but plains for miles and miles and miles… But that's are just physical geography. States are defined by people, institutions, events, and a host of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/states-bad-vibes/melissa-sartore">other happenings </a>within their borders - some of which is just kind of embarrassing.Numerous states across the US make headlines a lot, others you <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/which-states-have-the-most-unfair-reputation-/mel-judson">rarely hear</a> about. Even for the latter, when you do catch wind of something gone on in a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/states-you-do-not-want-to-visit/linda-meyers">relatively quiet state</a>, it's very often not the result of a pride-worthy development.&nbsp;So, with all of that in mind- which states are the most embarrassing? Embarrassing to you, to the country, to the world and, perhaps most importantly, are actually super embarrassing to themselves? All of the above? You decide.&nbsp;

Which US States Are The Most Embarrassing?

US State

Lists to get you through all the long, boring, miserable, non-football hours until kickoff.

Are You Ready for Some NFL?

Football

It happens every year - football season. High school, college, professional - football is practically everywhere, even if you're not looking. When it comes to the NFL, there are 32 teams that play every season, all vying for some post-season action. Whether you watch <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/greatest-nfl-teams">your favorite teams</a> in person or on television, catching a game can be one of the things about autumn weekends you truly enjoy most.&nbsp;That said, there are some teams out there that you just can't stand. You know the ones. The rival of your favorite team. The teams with players who irk you. The teams the media won't shut up about. Heck,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/greatest-pro-football-teams-of-all-time/mathayus"> the team</a> all of America is supposed to be pulling for - as if all of America got a say in that decision. Even if you don't like football, you may just want those teams to lose - on principle.There is hope out there for football fans who really dislike one team - or several. When those obnoxious and irritating teams play, you can sit back and take in the glory when they lose.&nbsp;

Which NFL Teams Do You Watch Just To See Them Lose?

Football team

Seinfeld

During its run on NBC from 1989 to 1998,&nbsp;Seinfeld&nbsp;told the stories of Jerry, Elaine, George, Kramer, and others through&nbsp;true-to-life experiences in New York City.&nbsp;As "a show about nothing," the comedy was a smashing success with viewers, esteemed as one of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/the-greatest-sitcoms-in-television-history">best sitcoms</a> in the history of television.However,&nbsp;Seinfeld definitely had something going on when the cameras were off — and sometimes even when the cameras were on. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/seinfeld-fan-theories/stephen-tompkins">Seinfeld fan theories abound</a> when it comes to things like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/jerry-seinfeld-girlfriends">on-screen relationships</a>, but&nbsp;the relationships off-screen could be just as tumultuous and dramatic at times.&nbsp;The entire cast of&nbsp;Seinfeld didn't always get along, sometimes to the point of writing characters off the show so that others wouldn't have to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/worst-seinfeld-episodes/jonathan-kantor">deal with them</a>. There were also the fair share of&nbsp;cat fights, tears, lawsuits, temper tantrums, and other things that tend to plague&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/behind-the-scenes-brady-bunch-stories/mariel-loveland">popular television shows</a>, including a long-running feud&nbsp;with&nbsp;Roseanne, proving every successful show has its dark secrets — even the comedies —&nbsp;and Seinfeld is no exception.&nbsp;

9 Dramatic Stories From Behind The Scenes Of 'Seinfeld'

Fun facts, wild true stories, and cringey ego-driven tea-spilling from behind the scenes of some of history's most beloved and infamous comedy movies.

Just Doing Comedy!

National Lampoon has been around for decades. Initially<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.vulture.com/2013/06/big-and-glossy-and-wonderful-the-birth-of-the-national-lampoon-magazine.html"> a humor magazine</a>, National Lampoon branched out to other comedic media during the 1970s with radio shows, movies, and even television shows - and never looked back.&nbsp;Dozens of movies fall under the larger National Lampoon umbrella, but only a few can fairly be called classics: Animal House (1978) and National Lampoon's Vacation (1983), along with the latter's two sequels, National Lampoon's European Vacation (1985) and National Lampoon's <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/national-lampoons-christmas-vacation-movie-details/colinmorabito">Christmas Vacation</a> (1998).The first National Lampoon movie, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/behind-the-scenes-stories-from-animal-house/erin-mccann">Animal House</a>, featured comedic giants like John Belushi, while the first Vacation movie introduced audiences to the lovable and enduring <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/clark-griswold-is-a-psychopath/inigo-gonzalez">Griswold family</a>. As the franchise grew, so did the number of familiar faces and future stars who found themselves in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/famous-harvard-lampoon-members/user-x">National Lampoon</a> world.&nbsp;To get a look at what it was like to work behind the scenes on a classic National Lampoon movie, we went to the stars themselves. What they had to say about making some of our favorite films sent us trippin' down “Holiday Road.”

What Actors In Nostalgic 'National Lampoon' Movies Said About The Experience

Actor

Crazy Behind-The-Scenes Stories From 'National Lampoon' Movies

Celebrities

Do you have a favorite actor? Many of us do - that star you'll go see in any movie, watch in any TV show, and maybe even venture out to see on stage.Sometimes, our favorites are big names - the type of performers everyone knowns and has an opinion about. But there are also <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/actors-we-wish-a-list/thomas-west">Hollywood stars</a> who are anything but <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-actors-2023/alex-alvarez">A-list </a>for one reason or another. If you're a big fan of a less-than-top-tier performer, it can be frustrating when the rest of the world doesn't seem <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/lesser-known-actors/thomas-west">to see</a> what you see. They're impressive, so why don't more people realize it?The celebrities themselves are underrated and, as a result, facts about them aren't as widely known. We rounded up underrated facts about some of our favorite actors who definitely need more love.

12 Underrated Facts About Actors Who Deserve More Love

The original versions and real stories behind the fairy tales we've been whispering to sleepy children.

Once Upon a Time

Disney Princesses

In large part thanks to Disney's version of her story, Cinderella is a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/the-best-cinderella-movies/ranker-film">familiar fairy tale</a> character. The girl is maltreated by her stepmother and stepsisters, and essentially ends up as their servant. When it comes time for a royal celebration, Cinderella can't attend - until the intervention of her fairy godmother, some lovable creatures, and a magical gourd. By the time the tale ends, Cinderella finds her Prince - well, he finds her - and they live happily ever after.But this is just one telling of “Cinderella,” and it's a fairly tame one.&nbsp;Much like other fairy tales, variants of “Cinderella” reflect different cultural beliefs, fears, and social happenings. Throughout history and around the world, “Cinderella” has had a variety of names and, in many instances, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/tragic-childhood-fairy-tale-stories/melissa-sartore">a much darker path</a> to happiness. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/worst-moments-in-brothers-grimm-fairy-tales/melissa-sartore">Bloodshed, cannibalism</a>, and self-harm have been woven into retellings, while death and vengeance commonly appear, too.&nbsp;These twists and turns of “Cinderella” are troubling in their own unique ways.&nbsp;

The Dark And Disturbing History Of 'Cinderella'

Interesting

Death is one of the few certainties in life. Every person experiences it in some way (including <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/study-shows-brain-works-after-passing/matthew-lavelle">their own</a>), and very often, will take part in a ritual surrounding the end of a loved one's life.Many similarities exist among historical death traditions, but there is no single way to grieve, express loss, or celebrate a person's life. Whether it's how a group prepares <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/eight-stages-of-death/inigo-gonzalez">a corpse</a>, shows continued deference and care for a deceased loved one, or honors the legacy of a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/historical-war-hero-photos/thomas-west">fallen hero</a>, death rituals reveal a lot about living. As a result, the end of life has been met with cultural practices and religious rites through the ages.These rituals offer insight into the people who practiced them and the context within which they were undertaken. Some of these ceremonies linger today. Others have set the foundation for more contemporary ceremonies. Still more have simply fallen by the wayside. Across the board, they're all fascinating.

12 Fascinating Death Rituals From Throughout History

poll

A melee. A fracas. A brawl. A donnybrook. There are a lot of words to describe a fight, especially one that involves multiple participants. But what would happen if the US states got into a fight? Or, in other words, if all 50 of the stars on that red, white, and blue flag entered a knock-down, drag-out <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/which-president-would-win-in-a-fight/stephanroget">fist fight</a> for the ages, who kicks the most a**?&nbsp;In what would amount to Fight Club, US State Edition, there would have to be clear favorites - to say nothing of the ultimate victors in however many rounds took place. Some states would triumph over their competitors, while others would crumble under the shards of their proverbial glass jaws - and you get to decide who's still standing when the dust clears from the all-American dog pile.Unlike <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/fight-club-behind-the-scenes/mike-mcgranaghan">Fight Club</a>, however, we're fine with you talking about it and voting up <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/nonamerican-favorite-thing-about-each-state/melissa-sartore">your favorites</a> to completely dominate when sh*t gets real.&nbsp;

Which US States Would Win In A Fist Fight?

Hey, what's up? Are you on a quest for a nightmare? Well, look no further.

Creepy People, Places & Things

Pop Culture

Sometimes, a photograph is meant to be unsettling or creepy. Others simply become unnerving with the gift of hindsight. And then there are <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/when-you-see-it-pictures/lauren-slocum">haunting images</a> that leave you feeling uneasy - whether they intend to or not.Throughout history, photos have captured people, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/scary-nature-pictures/erin-maxwell">places, and phenomena</a>. Much of what has been caught in a moment lacks context and explanation, ultimately creating a space for that photo to not sit quite right. It may <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/tags/phobias">play on a phobia,</a> feature a long-forgotten activity that defies modern comprehension, or just raise so many more questions than it could ever hope to answer.Unintentionally haunting <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/rare-historical-photos/larry-taylor">historical photos</a> may actually have that quality magnified because they were taken for completely non-haunting reasons. Understanding those reasons may make them less creepy. Then again, maybe not.

Unintentionally Haunting Historical Photos And What They Reveal About The Past

Let's Go Party

Barbie (Mattel)

Barbie has been around for decades and is one of the most enduring toys ever created. Throughout the history of Barbie, there have been countless ups and downs as well as additions, changes, and updates to the doll and her<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/funny-barbie-fan-posts/abeswaves"> multimedia influence.&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/ken-doll-history/lauren-glen">Boyfriends</a>, friends, houses, and all kinds of other accessories have made Barbie a little bit of everything. She's a fashion icon, role model, point of contention, and, as of 2023, a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/barbie-movie-behind-the-scenes/lauren-glen">bona fide movie star.&nbsp;</a>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/most-popular-barbie-by-year/mallory-weiler">sheer longevity</a> of Barbie makes it difficult to comprehend just how much has gone into the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/discontinued-barbie-dolls/cortland-jacoby">Barbie franchise</a>. Her <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/ruth-handler-barbie-creator-facts/melissa-sartore">origin story,</a> emergence on the global scene, and continued pervasiveness are impressive - especially when you look at just how many milestones there have been over the years.

A Timeline Of Barbie And Her Biggest Milestones

Barbie Timeline

Exposing all the weird, expensive, political, ego-driven stuff that happens behind the scenes before and after films and TV series hit the screens.

That's Showbiz, Baby

“Residuals” is a word that gets tossed around with respect to Hollywood, but what does the term mean? It turns out, residuals are pretty complicated - but they're also steeped in history and reflect a lot about who's watching Hollywood as much as who's actually getting paid.A residual, in its simplest form, is a payment to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/the-coolest-actors-ever">an actor</a>, writer, director, or some other contributor to a creative project for its reuse or re-airing. Residuals weren't necessary when media like radio, television, and film were developed because reruns and reshowings weren't common.&nbsp;It wasn't until 1960 and the growth of television that both writers and actors in the United States received a clear pay structure for the long-term use of their work. This was driven by the formation and growth of unions for workers<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/where-hollywood-terms-come-from/emily-mast"> in Hollywood.</a>As new formats emerged, changes to residual payments were needed. This added to the complexities of residuals and, very often, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/strikes-us-history-biggest-important/melissa-sartore">made them contentious</a> for all involved. As technology continued to change, residuals remained of utmost concern for unions, their members, and individuals working in Hollywood.To understand the way residuals came to be, how they're structured, and the implications for their future, here's what you need to know about residuals - and what they actually say about us all.&nbsp;

Hollywood Residuals Have Been Around For Decades And They Reveal A Lot About What We're Watching

The Complex History of Hollywood Residuals Explained

CLAW™ Back Your Summer

Summer

Warm weather, sunny days, and free time make summer a season of fun and travel. While summer vacations are a fairly recent development, historically speaking, venturing out during the summer months to take part in a variety of activities has long been the norm.&nbsp;Throughout history, summertime has offered the ideal conditions to enjoy being outside. Going to the beach, lounging by the pool, sipping a White Claw, and watching your local sports team are some modern <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/summer-activities-for-people-who-hate-water/samantha-dillinger">things to do</a> during the summer. It turns out, many of the summertime things we do today have been around for longer than most people realize.&nbsp;A trip through <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/bucket-list-for-summer/dani-porter">popular summer activities</a> across history is a fun way to see how people from the past were enjoying themselves - and a nice reminder to go out and do some of these things ourselves!This sponsored list was created with the participation of White Claw.<div data-oembed-url="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/pTEM-2ud-F4"><div style="max-width: 56vh;"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 177.7778%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pTEM-2ud-F4" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media;"></iframe></div></div></div>

The Most Popular Summer Activities Throughout History

Tips

Like living pretty much anywhere, calling a popular tourist destination home has pros and cons. There are things to do, yes, but there are always people around. Well, at least that's the case for many tourist hot spots during the summer months.Being a local in a tourist hot spot doesn't mean you don't have free time, of course, but we got curious about how locals actually spend their downtime. Here are just some of the ways they pass time - are you ready to join in the fun?This sponsored list was created with the participation of White Claw.<div data-oembed-url="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/gTOrAkCcY6M"><div style="max-width: 56vh;"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 177.7778%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gTOrAkCcY6M" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media;"></iframe></div></div></div>

How Locals Actually Spend Summer Free Time In Tourist Hot Spots

Pee-wee's Playhouse

On Saturday mornings from 1986 to 1990, kids (and adults) tuned into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-1980s-cult-tv-series/ranker-tv">Pee-wee's Playhouse</a> to enjoy the quirky antics of Pee-wee Herman and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/full-cast-of-pee-wee_s-playhouse-cast-list-for-the-show-pee-wee_s-playhouse/reference">his friends.</a> Through 45 episodes and one holiday special, Pee-wee, Jambi, Chairry, Cowboy Curtis, Captain Carl, and a host of other fun-loving characters filled the playhouse with laughter, lessons, and, at times, screams.&nbsp;Those screams were the result of saying <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0090500/?ref_=ttep_ov">the secret word</a>, dutifully provided by Conky the Robot. Each episode featured a secret word that, once it was said, resulted in screams <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/paul-reubens-pee-wee-herman-death-career-in-photos/damon-davis">for Pee-wee</a> and the gang as well as for the viewers at home. Finding out what the secret word was may have been dreaded by parents, but it made for a great experience to wait and see just how many times the off-limits word was said - and how many times the at-home fans got to scream in response.Generally, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-children_s-television-series-tv-shows/ranker-tv?page=7">Pee-wee's Playhouse</a> didn't opt for obscure words but made the word common enough that it was difficult to avoid. In fact, most of the words are ones people use repeatedly on a daily basis. And, sometimes, they still make us want to "SCREAM!

Every Secret Word From 'Pee-wee's Playhouse,' Ranked By Scream-ability

What's your favorite beverage? Something carbonated? What about a nice warm treat? Or maybe you're content with a fruity drink?&nbsp;Even if you don't have a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/cola-wars-history/melissa-sartore">favorite beverage</a>, you've probably had coffee, tea, beer, or any variety of popular liquid refreshments to quench your thirst. But how much do you really know about <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/candy-drinks/jessica-lawshe">that drink</a>?&nbsp;Just like most things, popular sips have stories behind them that offer insight into their histories as well as highlight some of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/the-10-craziest-food-abominations-of-all-time/joanne">quirky stuff</a> about them. Finding out more can be satisfying, and even quench your thirst for knowledge, so to speak - ultimately hitting the spot.

Thirst-Quenching Facts About 12 Popular Beverages

All about Christopher Nolan's explosive movie Oppenheimer (2023), about the creation of the atomic bomb.

Destroyer of Worlds

The 2023 movie Oppenheimer explores the life and career of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/j-robert-opennheimer-facts/josh-wingo">J. Robert Oppenheimer</a>, the American theoretical physicist essential to the development of the first nuclear weapons. Often called the “father of the atomic bomb,” he was the director of the Manhattan Project at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/los-alamos-history/genevieve-carlton">Los Alamos</a> during World War II.The path to creating nuclear weaponry was <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/quotes-from-makers/gordon-cameron">fraught with </a>internal and external turmoil for Oppenheimer, much of which is captured in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-biopics-ever-made/ranker-film">the biopic</a>. As Oppenheimer traverses through the science and politics of the Manhattan Project, audiences meet a who's who of historical figures with a hand in ushering in the Atomic Age. The names are familiar - some more than others - and, thanks to exquisite casting by director <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0634240/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1">Christopher Nolan</a>, so are many of the faces.The appearances of many of Oppenheimer's stars are eerily similar to the people they play. The list of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/christopher-nolan-oppenheimer-cast-ranked/jtdesaulnier">noteworthy performers</a> who appear in the film adds to the impressive nature of the casting. Full of drama, intrigue, and history, Oppenheimer is a slice of history that, in surprising ways, looks very much like the past.

The Cast Of 'Oppenheimer' Vs. The Real People They Play

Are you already an expert in everything America? Great! No need to read about these fascinating facts and important events that have shaped the U.S. as we know it today.

US History You Should Know

The Industrial Revolution and labor uprisings can, in many ways, be seen as going hand-in-hand. As workers shifted their lives to factory settings, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/disgusting-conditions-in-historical-meatpacking-plants/laura-allan">exploitation by</a> employers and companies prompted action by men, women, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/photos-of-us-child-laborers/mick-jacobs">and children</a> to push back for decent wages, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/london-matchgirls-strike-phossy-jaw/melissa-sartore">safe conditions,</a> and long-term benefits.&nbsp;In the United States, as in many industrialized parts of the world, strikes were one way of standing up against oppression in the workplace. Throughout the history of the US, there have been small strikes, large strikes, and even strikes that impacted global economies.&nbsp;Many strikes have been undertaken by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/list-of-famous-trade-unions/reference">the labor unions</a> that formed <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://guides.loc.gov/this-month-in-business-history/august/national-labor-union-8-hour-work-day#:~:text=The%20National%20Labor%20Union%20was%20the%20first%20attempt%20in%20the,beginning%20on%20August%2020%2C%201866.&amp;text=This%20is%20an%20economic%20perspective,an%208%2Dhour%20work%20day.">during the second half </a>of the 19th century, but not all strikes have been successful for workers or their unions. Employers haven't always been victorious, either, and often, a compromise is required to bring a strike to an end.&nbsp;Here are some of the most groundbreaking, significant, and workforce-altering strikes in US history. Vote up the ones you wish you would have known more about sooner.&nbsp;

14 Strikes That Shaped How People Work In The United States

Important Strikes In US History

It's not always something that can be put into words - it's something you know when you feel it, you sense it right away, you just can't shake it… it's a bad vibe.&nbsp;Sometimes a bad vibe can come from a person but, very often, a bad vibe is connected to a specific place. A house, a city, even a state… There's really no limit to where you might feel uncomfortable.Everyone has opinions about the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/worst-places-to-live-in-the-u-s-">worst states to live in</a>, the ones that kind of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://www.ranker.com/list/which-states-have-the-worst-drivers-/mel-judson">stink to drive in,</a> and the ones they'd never, ever <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/states-you-do-not-want-to-visit/linda-meyers">want to visit</a>. But visiting a state isn't always an option. It's also not something you think is going to be unpleasant - but then you get there and it just feels, well, off.&nbsp;Whether a state makes you feel unwelcome, gives you the willies, or is just plain terrible, the overall take away is as simple as this - it just gives off bad vibes. Let us know which states send your bad vibe detector off the charts.&nbsp;

Which States Give Off The Worst Vibes?

Not every inventor comes up with something people know about, much less one that becomes an entity all its own. Ruth Handler, however, accomplished just that when she developed the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/barbie-movies-fan-posts/abeswaves">Barbie doll </a>during the late 1950s.In her own words, Handler said “I've lived my life from breast to breast” - and she wasn't wrong. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/barbie-fun-facts/lauren-glen">When she introduced Barbie</a>, there was pushback against a doll that actually had breasts. Years later, after Handler was diagnosed with breast cancer, she created a prosthetic bra insert to fill a gap in the marketplace.Hander's upbringing, work ethic, and fortitude helped propel her to the top of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/who-are-barbie-dolls-friends/ramya-jaishankar-1">the toy industry.</a> There were triumphs and challenges along the way, of course - all of which make her that much more fascinating of a figure.

Facts We Just Learned About Ruth Handler, The Inventor Of Barbie

What does getting off the grid mean?&nbsp;For many people, it means relaxation, for others it's about finding something refreshing, and for another group, it means escaping entirely from day-to-day obligations. There aren't many better feelings than turning off your notifications, clicking on the out-of-office replay, or even taking those pesky work apps off your phone. That's when you know you're officially off the grid and you can finally relax.But relaxation is kind of a personal thing. Not everyone relaxes the same way and, as a result, no activity is relaxing for everyone. The same is true for what qualifies as refreshing and how a person escapes.&nbsp;Luckily, the United States has so many options to meet the needs of every type of off-the-grid desire. From beaches to forests to hidden spaces in unexpected places, these are the most off-the-grid summer activities in each state. What strikes you as the best way to claw back your summer?This sponsored list was created with the participation of White Claw.<div data-oembed-url="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/00w0BgBxAQo"><div style="max-width: 56vh;"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 177.7778%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/00w0BgBxAQo" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media;"></iframe></div></div></div>

Where To Go Off The Grid To Claw Back Your Summer

The most creative, brilliant, and difficult doozies that left us scratching our heads.

Riddles & Brainteasers

Jeopardy!

Jeopardy! offers an array of categories that really run the gamut. When it comes to celebrities, categories about <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/historical-figures-questions-jeopardy/melissa-sartore">well-known figures</a> and performers from <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/jeopardy-history-questions-champions-missed/melissa-sartore">throughout the ages</a> may focus on specific details of their lives and careers, their families, or some other minute detail tangentially connected to them.This makes for lots of fun questions (or answers, but you know<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/jeopardy-behind-the-scenes/setareh-janda"> how it works)</a> about celebrities - and also many super-challenging ones that seem nearly impossible to get right. Even the biggest fans of high-profile performers can find themselves feeling they've just been blindsided by something they should have known - but didn't.&nbsp;These are those types of questions. They're difficult. They're demanding. They're just plain super(star) hard.&nbsp;

18 'Jeopardy!' Questions About Nostalgic Celebrities That Left Us Seeing Stars

Fantasy

Fairy tales are pretty common during childhood. Whether they're told to kids at storytime, relayed in a movie, or part of a play or some other presentation, the names of princesses like Cinderella, Snow White, and Belle are well known. Not all tales make it to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/dark-fairy-tale-fan-theories/loren-o_connell">Disney catalog</a> - or at least haven't yet - but those stories are no less present in the lives of children worldwide.Many fairy tales are based on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/the-little-mermaid-original-details-horror/emily-mast">earlier stories</a> told by the likes of Charles Perrault, Hans Christian Andersen, and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/worst-moments-in-brothers-grimm-fairy-tales/melissa-sartore">Jacob and Willhelm Grimm</a>. There are even historical influences on some of the plots present. Through all of those influences, many dark elements don't make it into the most common tellings. The tragic lives of the real Beauty and her Beast are not widely known, while the disastrous events of the 14th century that set the stage for an actual Hansel and Gretel are, understandably, left out of what we hear when we're young.That doesn't make the backstories of childhood fables any more disturbing. These common fairy tales are among the most tragic when it comes to the underlying stories from which they came.

Tragic And Disturbing Stories That Inspired Popular Childhood Fairy Tales

Lists about NBC's monumental sitcom that ran from 1989 to 1998, and all the manzier, Rochelle Rochelle, ASSMAN, and Serenity Now laughs in between. Adios, muchacho!

It's a Show About Nothing

In front of the live studio audience, everything was all punchlines and pratfalls — but when the cameras were off, dark and messy things took place on the sets of the TV comedies America never missed.

Behind the Laugh Tracks

During its run on NBC from 1989 to 1998,&nbsp;Seinfeld&nbsp;told the stories of Jerry, Elaine, George, Kramer, and others through&nbsp;true-to-life experiences in New York City.&nbsp;As &quot;a show about nothing,&quot; the comedy was a smashing success with viewers, esteemed as one of the <a href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/the-greatest-sitcoms-in-television-history" target="_blank">best sitcoms</a> in the history of television.

However,&nbsp;Seinfeld definitely had something going on when the cameras were off &mdash; and sometimes even when the cameras were on. <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/seinfeld-fan-theories/stephen-tompkins" target="_blank">Seinfeld fan theories abound</a> when it comes to things like <a href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/jerry-seinfeld-girlfriends" target="_blank">on-screen relationships</a>, but&nbsp;the relationships off-screen could be just as tumultuous and dramatic at times.&nbsp;The entire cast of&nbsp;Seinfeld didn&#39;t always get along, sometimes to the point of writing characters off the show so that others wouldn&#39;t have to <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/worst-seinfeld-episodes/jonathan-kantor" target="_blank">deal with them</a>. There were also the fair share of&nbsp;cat fights, tears, lawsuits, temper tantrums, and other things that tend to plague&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/behind-the-scenes-brady-bunch-stories/mariel-loveland" target="_blank">popular television shows</a>, including a long-running feud&nbsp;with&nbsp;Roseanne, proving every successful show has its dark secrets &mdash; even the comedies &mdash;&nbsp;and Seinfeld is no exception.&nbsp;

Dramatic Stories From Behind The Scenes Of 'Seinfeld'

14 Dark Stories From Behind The Scenes Of 'Seinfeld'

Photos

In 1975, Anneliese&nbsp;Michel exhibited&nbsp;some undeniably bizarre and frightening behavior, and her&nbsp;mother was at her wits&#39; end.&nbsp;Michel&#39;s mother contacted the Catholic Church to <a href="http://www.ranker.com/list/creepy-exorcisms-with-disastrous-results/juliet-bennett-rylah" target="_blank">exorcise her daughter</a>. Anneliese had been hearing voices and exhibiting violent reactions to religious objects &ndash; long cited as hallmarks of <a href="http://www.ranker.com/list/possessions-caught-on-tape/katherine-ripley" target="_blank">demonic possession</a>&nbsp;among believers &ndash;&nbsp;and her parents were convinced she was possessed. The tale&nbsp;of the exorcisms of <a href="https://historydaily.org/the-anneliese-michel-story" target="_blank">Anneliese&nbsp;Michel</a> was the basis for the 2005 movie&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Exorcism-Emily-Rose-Unrated-Special/dp/B000BTJDGC?&amp;tag=rankercom-20" target="_blank">The Exorcism of Emily Rose</a>,&nbsp;but the real story behind her behavior and her ultimate death is much more terrifying than anything Hollywood could have imagined.&nbsp;

The Real-Life Recordings That Inspired 'The Exorcism Of Emily Rose' Are Way Scarier Than The Movie

The Disturbing Real-Life Exorcism Photos That Inspired 'The Exorcism of Emily Rose' Are Way Scarier Than The Actual Movie

Lists about the history and quirks of America's highest office.

The American Presidency

Who are those people who lived in the White House, making appearances and speeches and promises and mistakes? To understand them, you must get to know the spouses, children, and even siblings of U.S. Presidents, past and present. 

The First Family

US History

The images from <a href="http://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/the-u-s-presidents-from-best-to-worst" target="_blank">US presidents</a> on their wedding days&nbsp;offer insider glimpses&nbsp;into the pre-White House lives of some of the most famous couples of all time. As photos document &ndash; with the pre-presidential presidents decked&nbsp;out in their era&#39;s finest and often sporting big, loving grins &ndash;&nbsp;presidents&#39; weddings were days of celebration just like ones other, normal folks might have.&nbsp;Most US presidents were married once; although, a couple of them were married multiple times.&nbsp;

Photos from those magical days also reveal a lot about weddings throughout history! &nbsp;

Photos Of 13 U.S. Presidents On Their Wedding Day

13 Romantic And Timeless Presidential Wedding Photos

Exploring the backstories and nuances of famous historical photos that will change the way you think about the past—and the future.

Photographic Memories

Photographs provide provocative glimpses into people&#39;s lives. Stories behind photos - for individuals on both sides of the camera - may reveal much more than a <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/vulture-and-little-girl-photo-story/stephanroget" target="_blank">single image can encapsulate</a>. Pulitzer Prize-winning photos receive international attention for their ability to evoke visceral reactions, highlight key <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/most-important-historical-events-of-the-20th-century/mwahahahaha?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">events in history</a>, and open eyes to unrealized truths.

Each year, <a href="https://www.pulitzer.org/prize-winners-by-year/2020" target="_blank">Pulitzer Prize-winning photographs</a> are honored for their intensity, insight into society, and raw emotion. The stories behind Pulitzer Prize-winning photos over the years add layers of insight into the moments that inspired each image. A cross section of Pulitzer Prize winners can transport you along an emotional spectrum&nbsp;from jubilation&nbsp;to grief.

Pulitzer Prize-Winning Photographs And The Stories Behind Them

Pulitzer Prize Winning Photographs And The Stories Behind Them

Lists about the Hitler's Germany, which Der Führer ruled through fascism from 1933 to 1945.

The Horrors of the Third Reich

Nazi Germany

The emotions felt by descendants of Nazis attest to the complexity of family relationships. Some children and <a href="http://www.ranker.com/list/nazi-war-criminals-who-got-away-with-their-crimes/philgibbons" target="_blank">grandchildren of Nazis condemn their relatives</a>, while others may defend them. Many never say anything at all, ashamed and fearful to acknowledge their link to the Third Reich.

Members of <a href="http://www.ranker.com/list/top-nazi-official-jobs-before-nazism/philgibbons" target="_blank">numerous&nbsp;SS officers&#39; families</a> have spoken out about their relatives&#39; pasts, revealing their&nbsp;opinions and offering insights into the lives of their family members&#39; experiences. Even if&nbsp;you thought there was nothing new to learn about World War II, these stories provide surprising&nbsp;perspectives.

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