Long-form investigations into the history and science of birthdays.
Long before horoscope apps, ancient civilisations used the stars to understand the meaning of a birth date. The complete astrological histor...
Deep DivesThe birthday cake has evolved from simple grain offerings in ancient Greece to the towering architectural confections of today. The complete...
Deep DivesHistorical patterns in birth dates, survival rates, and longevity — what the data reveals about birthdays across centuries of human history....
Deep DivesWhy do we blow out candles? Where did birthday pinches come from? The strange and fascinating origins of birthday superstitions throughout h...
Deep DivesFrom Cleopatra's legendary celebrations to Marie Antoinette's notorious parties to the most extravagant modern birthday bashes — the parties...
Deep DivesThe first birthday has been celebrated differently across cultures and centuries. Discover the historical significance of surviving that cru...
Deep DivesA historical journey through birthday customs from ancient Egypt to medieval Europe to modern Asia — how different cultures have always mark...
Deep DivesGift-giving on birthdays began as offerings to ward off evil spirits. How did this ancient practice evolve into the modern gift industry?...
Deep DivesWhy do we celebrate birthdays at all? The surprisingly complex answer takes us from ancient Egypt through pagan Europe to the modern world....