Sammy Tran articles

Known as one of the most talented modern writers, and possibly the greatest children’s author in history, Roald Dahl’s works have met great praise and criticism over the years. Although whimsical and heart-warming, his stories were often much darker than most children’s books, and were the subject of polarizing reviews. Similarly, his life as a student, pilot, spy, and father was full of fantastical highs—and unimaginably grim lows.

Sophia Dorothea of Celle was the wife of the future King George I of England, yet this fairy-tale existence turned to tragedy early on. From a horrific betrayal to a 300-year-old murder mystery that is unsolved to this day, Sophia's life is not one you want to miss.

Francis I of France is inevitably compared to Henry VIII. Both kings had big personalities, big love affairs, and big scandals that rocked the face of Europe. But there’s a lot more to Francis than just the similarities to the Tudor counterpart. From his unlikely ascension to the throne to his brutal defeats and torturous later years, Francis did not languish in his neighbor's shadow.

Francis I of France is inevitably compared to Henry VIII. Both kings had big personalities, big love affairs, and big scandals that rocked the face of Europe. But there’s a lot more to Francis than just the similarities to the Tudor counterpart. From his unlikely ascension to the throne to his brutal defeats and torturous later years, Francis did not languish in his neighbor's shadow.

Butch Cassidy remains one of Wild West's most infamous outlaws, in part thanks to the movie Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. But while in the movie, Cassidy goes out in a blaze of glory—the real outlaw's end was far darker than they ever would have shown on screen.

Cross breed Game of Thrones with Cinderella, and you'll get Elizabeth Woodville's life story. Despite her lowborn roots, she used her beauty to catch the eye of King Edward IV and become the first common-born Queen of England. Once she had her crown, she'd do anything—and I mean anything—to keep it. Get to know Elizabeth Woodville, England's infamous "White Queen."

Archaeologists in Belize have unearthed the 1,600-year-old tomb of the founding king of Caracol, one of the most powerful cities of the Classic Maya world.

Queen Victoria of England is a titan of history, and anyone following in her footsteps had terrifying shoes to fill. Enter: Her daughter, Princess Victoria, who went to agonizing lengths to make her mother proud and became an Empress of Prussia in the process. Tragically, this Princess Royal’s rise ended with an enormous crash.

Queen Tamar is something of a puzzle to historians. They have trouble believing that someone could be so pious and kindhearted, but also responsible for so many gruesome battles. To which I say: Can’t it be both? Her piousness actually seemed to help make her such a powerful, successful Queen, in battle and otherwise. And I like to think the most brilliant people are also the most paradoxical. But we'll let you decide for yourself.