askhistorians

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How did ancient/medieval people explain the mechanisms of sexual reproduction prior to the discovery and understanding of sperm cells, egg cells, and fertilization? What did they think what was going on in a woman's body during pregnancy? NSFW	3824
"The Last Kingdom", a TV show about the Viking conquest of England, often portrays Christian clergymen actively fighting and participating in battles and military campaigns. Did so-called "warrior monks" actually exist in the Middle Ages?	2543
The sandwich was supposedly invented by John Montague, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, as a quick meal while he gambled. What exactly did gambling/casinos look like in the 18th century? What sort of games would Montague and other aristocrats play?	258
Part of the notoriety of 1973's "The Exorcist" are tales of theaters full of people suffering from panic attacks, vomiting, and fainting. Was this as common as urban legends make it? Why did 1970s moviegoers had such a visceral reaction to this movie in particular?	254
Did ancient ampitheatres, particularly the Roman Colosseum, have restrooms, concessions, VIP suites, and other amenities we have in our modern stadiums? If so, what would they look like, and how were they organized?	83
Stereotypical Ninja Weapons (cat claws, scythe on chain, etc) look cool but seem highly impractical and over-specialized compared to swords, spears, and clubs. Did these weapons actually see widespread use in the Far East?	33
The sperm and egg cells were discovered in the mid 1600s and fertilization was observed in the late 1800s. Prior to that, how did ancient/medieval humans explain the mechanisms of sexual reproduction? Did these beliefs differ between societies & civilizations? NSFW	21

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