Welcome to HistoryWow

Why ‘Wow’? Because history has a ‘Wow’ factor. History is rich in fascinating and inspiratonal incidents and events. Stories of heroism, self-sacrifice, humor, arrogance, foolishness, victory against the odds, the cruel hand of fate, irony and nobility.

History’s got the lot. HistoryWow aims to bring you some of these fascinating and inspirational incidents and events, in a short, sharp format. A little bit of history every day. But not enough to overload your busy lifestyles. We hope you enjoy HistoryWow!

History Question of the Day

King Charles IX ruled Sweden from 1604-1611, but what was odd about his title?

The answer tomorrow.

Yesterday's question and answer:

The Swedish warship Vasa, built between 1626 and 1628, was intended to be the pride of the Swedish Navy. It suffered an ignominious demise however. What happened?

Answer: Vasa capsized and sank on her maiden voyage in 1628, after traveling little more than one thousand metres out of port. Fundamental construction errors meant the ship had been built top-heavy and with insufficient ballast.

Source: Sweden by Martina Sprague

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Ask HistoryWow

The History Wow Search Engine. "Ask HistoryWow"

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History Question of the Week

What was the name of the ransom paid by England to the King of Denmark, first paid during the reign of Ethelred the Unready, in order to prevent Danish attacks?

The answer on Thursday.

Submit Answer

The first correct answer to each week's question will receive a US$30 voucher to buy a history book of their choice.

Last week's question and answer:

Which prestigious British institution was founded in 1768, and whose first president was Joshua Reynolds.

Answer: The Royal Academy of Arts

Source: School of Genius by James Fenton

HistoryWow’s Golden List of Great History Books

There are many great history books, on a range of interesting topics. These are some of the ones we at HistoryWow think are especially good.

View List

The HistoryWow Forum

CALLING ALL HISTORY BUFFS!

The fascinating thing about history is that there are a variety of different opinions and views on historical questions. Here is your chance to tell us what you think about a particular history question.

THIS WEEK'S HISTORYWOW FORUM TOPIC IS:

The introduction of the Great Reform act of 1832, which significantly extended the franchise in the United Kingdom, was primarily the consequence of public agitation outside Parliament. What do you think?

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Tell us Your Favorite History Anecdote

History lovers have their own special history stories, incidents and episodes. Stories of heroism, self-sacrifice, victory against the odds, arrogance, the cruel hand of fate, irony and nobility. Tell us here what your favorite anecdote is.

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The HistoryWow App

The HistoryWow App. Seventy fascinating and inspirational incidents and events from history - in a short, sharp format. Each great story is different and each one is a terrific read. A nice-sized, compact, mini history book of around 15,000 words, complete with pictures. And only US $1.99.

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