Gladiators are well known figures in works of fiction and popular culture. Stories often focus on their brute strength, endurance, and thirst for violence. However, new archaeological discoveries and analysis are presenting more details about the gladiatorial games and the people involved. It's showing us just how deeply the Roman Empire depended on these games both for the elites and the common citizen. As the evidence suggests, these ancient games were far more complex than just a mindless blood sport.
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Animals
- Rare 'blonde' penguin spotted in Antarctica. See the photo.Rare 'blonde' penguin spotted in Antarctica. See the photo.
- Why are these orcas killing sharks and removing their livers?Why are these orcas killing sharks and removing their livers?
- How sharks equipped with cameras solved an aquatic mysteryHow sharks equipped with cameras solved an aquatic mystery
- This jellyfish can sting at 5 million g—the fastest on EarthThis jellyfish can sting at 5 million g—the fastest on Earth
- The true story behind ‘Cocaine Bear’ is no laughing matterThe true story behind ‘Cocaine Bear’ is no laughing matter
- Watch this clever heron throw shade—literally, Video StoryWatch this clever heron throw shade—literally
Environment
- Is the edge of a desert the right place to plant a forest?Is the edge of a desert the right place to plant a forest?
- Cliff art reveals the majesty of the Amazon’s aquatic realmCliff art reveals the majesty of the Amazon’s aquatic realm
- Is tap water safe to drink? Here’s what you need to know.Is tap water safe to drink? Here’s what you need to know.
History & Culture
- These mysterious ancient shipwrecks were found far from seaThese mysterious ancient shipwrecks were found far from sea
- The Ides of March—a day of murder that forever changed historyThe Ides of March—a day of murder that forever changed history
- While Napoleon conquered nations, his sister conquered heartsWhile Napoleon conquered nations, his sister conquered hearts
Science
- Why do some love to exercise? It might be their microbiome.Why do some love to exercise? It might be their microbiome.
- Weight-shaming backfires—why do people keep doing it?Weight-shaming backfires—why do people keep doing it?
- Delay death with tech? These innovations are promising.Delay death with tech? These innovations are promising.
- Are you a ‘lark’ or an ‘owl’? Your body clock holds the answer.Are you a ‘lark’ or an ‘owl’? Your body clock holds the answer.
- Why are so many young adults getting colon cancer?Why are so many young adults getting colon cancer?
Travel
- How a brutal POW camp became an idyllic island paradiseHow a brutal POW camp became an idyllic island paradise
- Paganism is on the rise—here’s where to discover its traditionsPaganism is on the rise—here’s where to discover its traditions
- A journey of the senses through Abu Dhabi, Video Story
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A journey of the senses through Abu Dhabi - How to eat in 6 of the world’s most stunning placesHow to eat in 6 of the world’s most stunning places
- Every year the spirit of the American West is awakened in Nevada
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Every year the spirit of the American West is awakened in Nevada