This is the January 2026 edition of my fascinating facts newsletter, which includes a range of interesting topics. This includes write-ups about throat singing, London taxis (The Knowledge), Monopoly and zebra crossings.
Fascinating Facts January 2026 Contents
“Fascinating Facts” is a free monthly e-magazine focusing on personal, historical, and military interests. Contributions are welcomed with appropriate credit given. You can download the full newsletter to read HERE; however, some snippets are listed below.
Significant January Events
A chronological roundup of notable events connected to January, spanning politics, exploration, transport, social change, and world history, highlighting key milestones and historical firsts. Read More…
Throat Singing
An exploration of throat singing, clarifying what the term means and why it is somewhat misleading anatomically. The section outlines the cultural origins of the practice and explains major styles such as khorekteer, khoomei, and kargyraa. Read More…
London Taxis & “The Knowledge”
An overview of London’s iconic black cabs, including who is licensed to pick up street passengers and the difference between green and yellow badges. The section then explains “The Knowledge”, detailing its history, training process, testing stages, and the years of preparation required. Read More…
The History of Monopoly
A look at the origins of Monopoly, beginning with Lizzie Magie’s The Landlord’s Game, followed by Charles Darrow’s role in popularising it and Parker Brothers’ commercial success. The section also covers wartime adaptations, legal disputes, and the game’s global reach. Read More…
Quipu — Inca “A Knotty Problem”
An explanation of quipu (or khipu), the knotted-cord recording system used by the Inca and other Andean cultures. It covers how quipus were used, how the decimal knot system worked, what has been lost over time, and what remains undeciphered today. Read More…
The History of the Zebra Crossing
A historical overview of pedestrian crossings, from early experiments in the 19th century to the introduction of zebra crossings in the UK. The section also discusses Belisha beacons and how pedestrian crossings vary around the world. Read More…
The Many Pseudonyms (and Relatives) of Teddy
A deep dive into the origins of the teddy bear, linking its name to Theodore Roosevelt and tracing its rise as a cultural icon. The section includes famous fictional bears, museums, charity uses, unusual historical anecdotes, and record-breaking examples. Read More…
Cars With a Difference
A look at unconventional vehicle designs, including the multi-wheeled Reeves Octo-Auto and the futuristic Dymaxion car. The section explains the ideas behind these designs, public reaction, and why they ultimately failed to gain traction. Read More…
The Misers Who Inspired Dickens
Profiles of real-life misers whose extreme frugality fascinated the public and influenced literature, particularly Charles Dickens’ Ebenezer Scrooge. The section explores their lives, wealth, habits, and how their fortunes were handled after death. Read More…
