Many historic rulers have demonstrated the drastic measures they have resorted to in order to protect what they hold dear. However, few have garnered such an infamously cruel and bloodthirsty reputation as Vlad Țepeș, also known as Vlad the Impaler or Vlad III.
The world can be a vast, terrifying place—but some locations have utterly chilling histories that aren't for the faint of heart.
Throughout the centuries, human beings have endured the evil atrocities of madmen, mass murderers, warlords, and fanatics. No one quite knows what exactly causes the minds of some to act with such cruelty or depravity. Humans are capable of creating so much good in the world but are equally equipped and proficient to carry out evil.
Some people have too much money and too little sense, but these mansions, castles, and stately abodes take that maxim to a deranged level. Whether it’s a tragic love story, a secret obsession, or a paranoid urge, each and every one of these buildings built by the rich and reckless has a bizarre origin story.
Steve Prefontaine should’ve been great. From a young age, his athletic prowess elevated him high above his peers. Coaches and fans alike could see the great potential that this young man had, especially when he turned failure into motivation to work harder. However, Prefontaine had everything taken from him before he’d even really started.
Alexander III was never supposed to be Emperor. But after the untimely passing of his older brother, he became the reluctant Tsesarevich of Russia and dutifully turned his attention to matters of politics. A difficult relationship with his father and the seismic societal shifts occurring on his doorstep in revolutionary Europe were enough to make Alexander dig in on his autocratic tendencies, and the people of Russia paid the price.
At the tender age of seven, Brandon deWilde became a national star—but a single, fateful accident ended his career, and his life, too soon.
In her short life, Poland's saintly Queen Jadwiga devoted herself to helping her people, while privately struggling with devastating tragedy.
What is the truth about Prince John of the United Kingdom, and who is to blame for his dark fate? Here are the facts: You be the judge.
King Hussein ruled Jordan for nearly five decades. With a reign that long, it was inevitable that Hussein would make powerful enemies.
In 1897, Bram Stoker created one of the most enduring monsters of all time: Dracula. Explore more of Stoker's dark history, and that of his creature.
Mary Nolan went from Hollywood darling to inmate in the psychiatric ward at Bellevue—and the way that she got there is more twisted than any film noir.
Alcatraz was only in operation for less than 30 years, but in that time it gained the reputation as one of the most notorious prisons in American history.
Area 51's workers don't drive there. They fly in on a classified US Government airline known only as "Janet."
We may be standing on the shoulders of giants—and, if some legends are believed, that phrase might be shockingly literal.
Some hotels offer luxurious rooms, beautiful views, and a peaceful night's sleep. Others come with ghost stories so famous that visitors actually hope something strange happens after dark. Behind many of these legends are real historical events, including mysterious deaths, devastating fires, and scandals that made headlines. From grand American resorts to centuries-old European castles, these hotels prove that sometimes the most memorable part of a vacation is the story you take home.
Plenty of famous landmarks promise apparitions, phantom footsteps, and unexplained voices after dark. But at some places, the documented history is disturbing enough without anything supernatural at all.
Back in the 70s, getting into the right college gave you something to brag about. Your parents were impressed. Your guidance counselor was pleased. And your friends wanted to know how you pulled it off. But mention those same schools today, and...nothing. How many do you remember?
From screaming ghouls to headless nuns, there’s little difference between these real-life ghost stories and a terrifying horror movie.
Discover 27 bone-chilling facts, from a deadly dancing plague to a whale carrying a century-old harpoon—strange stories you won’t forget.
The House of Habsburg ruled Europe for centuries, but in the end, their greatest legacy may have been their family curse.
In the world of rock music, Guns N’ Roses serves as both a high standard and a cautionary tale. Rarely has a band risen so high yet also fallen so far.
Stephen King knows how to make the impossible seem terrifyingly real, but some of his darkest ideas were inspired by reality itself.
Paris and Nicole seemed to have the closest friendship in Hollywood—but all it took was one night to tear them apart, sparking a brutal feud.
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