Turns out, it was the Greeks. Χριστος is how you write "Christ" in Greek and writers (including people who transcribed the Bible) have been using "X" as a convenient abbreviation of that since at least the 3rd and 4th centuries.
Who put the "X" in "Xmas"
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Fully intact Burger King discovered behind wall at Delaware shopping mall
A fellow named Jonathon Pruitt reportedly snapped the photo below of a preserved Burger King "found behind a wall" at Wilmington, Delaware's Concord Mall. I can't locate any additional information about this monumental discovery but it's a stunning example of American fast food archaeology. I hope that disturbing the crypt does not anger the original… READ THE REST
1920s footage of one of the world's oldest surviving roller coasters
My son got to go on his first rollercoaster recently, and it turns out it's one of the oldest coasters in world still in operation. Here's footage from 1920, or therabouts, of Kennywood Park's Jack Rabbit, surely as terrifying then as it is now! From Wikipedia: The Jack Rabbit was built shortly after Miller patented… READ THE REST
Thích Quảng Đức set himself on fire 59 years ago to protest the war in Vietnam
Whenever I watch documentaries, there's one thought that I can't shake: "how are these people filming this?" Moving toward the action is a required impulse for documentarians. No matter how horrifically violent or emotionally scarring the event they're capturing is, documentary teams constantly aim to capture moments in progress. I don't know about you, but… READ THE REST
Score 4th of July savings on this ultimate traveler bundle featuring Rosetta Stone
Traveling has long been one of the most exciting parts of life. Whether it's an alpine ski trip midwinter, an all-inclusive beach resort where you can soak your toes, or an impromptu trip to explore an exciting new city, everyone loves to travel. However, it can be difficult for most of us to get away for… READ THE REST
Win between $1 to $1 million this July 4th when you solve these fun puzzles
Summer is officially here, and we know you couldn't be more excited. Sure, you'll have those days when you're hanging out with friends or heading to the beach or pool, but what about those days when it's too rainy or hot to step foot outdoors? If you enjoy hunkering down and completing a good puzzle now and then,… READ THE REST
Get your kids unlimited toys this 4th of July with this discounted 3D printer
Maybe you're stuck on what to buy the kid who has everything, or you'd like to get somebody an incredibly unique gift. Don't bother buying yet another Lego set, doll, or video game for them. Instead, you can get them a toy that allows them to, well, just keep creating more toys! Of course, we're talking… READ THE REST