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  • Article

A history of twins in science

For thousands of years, twins have been a source of fascination in mythology, religion and the arts. Since the 19th century, they have also been the subject of scientific study and experimentation.

  • Article

The extraordinary body of Evatima Tardo

Darling of 19th-century American freak shows, Evatima Tardo remained serene as she withstood crucifixion and the bites of poisonous snakes. But she took the secret behind her abilities to her grave.

  • Article

Deadly doses and the hardest of hard drugs

The invention of the modern hypodermic syringe meant we could get high – or accidentally die – faster than before. Find out how this medical breakthrough was adapted for deadly uses.

  • Article

Dying to be in nature

The modern funeral business is one that uses up precious resources and pollutes the planet. But you can make sure it’s only your memory that leaves its mark with these new and natural ways to leave this earth.

All stories (11)

Images

  • German Hospital, New York City: floor plan ; portrait of Sir William Tite. Wood engraving, 1869.
  • College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York. Coloured wood engraving.
  • College of Veterinary Surgeons, New York City. Coloured wood engraving.
  • The controlled explosion of an underwater mine to clear rocks in the East River between Harlem and the Bronx, New York. Wood engraving.
  • Blackwell's Island Penitentiary, New York: prisoners are sitting at benches eating and reading as a man at the top of the room watches over them. Wood engraving after G.U. Régamay.
  • A steam train travelling on a track situated along the sidewalk above the level of the shops in New York; carriages and horse-drawn trolley buses are in the street. Wood engraving by J.R. Brown.
  • Blackwell's Island Penitentiary, New York: (left) prisoners are walking in a long file leaving spoons in a bowl as they go past; (right) prisoners stand in line to receive a loaf of bread. Wood engraving by W.J. Palmer, 1876, after F. Régamay.
  • Blackwell's Island Penitentiary, New York: prisoners in chains are working with hammers breaking stones on the side of the roadway, a guard in a jacket and trousers with a cane is watching over them from under a tree. Wood engraving after G.U. Régamey.
  • Woodens clubs from New Ireland & Duke of York Ireland
  • An answer to a late pamphlet intituled A letter to Dr. Smellie; shewing the impropriety of his new invented wooden forceps / [William Smellie]
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