The Ancient Greeks are widely known to shape most of the western culture - their contribution to philosophy, democracy, medicine, architecture, and mathematics cannot be disputed. However, there are other smaller elements of Ancient Greek culture that are still in practice today, and most of us are not even aware of where they came from. Customs like the birthday cake, which seem so natural as though they had existed since the dawn of time do have their roots somewhere…
These are 5 everyday customs and traditions that have surprisingly originated in Ancient Greece.
This inseparable, and arguably the best, part of birthday celebrations has its roots in Ancient Greece. The celebration of birthdays originated in Ancient Egypt where the people believed pharaohs became gods when they were crowned. Their coronation, the day they were “born” as gods, was a day of celebration every year. The Ancient Greeks adopted the custom and were the ones to add a dessert to the festivities.
Ancient Greek birthday cakes were moon-shaped, to be offered as a tribute to Artemis, the goddess of the moon. To make the cakes shine like the moon, they were decorated with lit candles. If you wonder about blowing the candles in making a wish, that bit was added much later, in 18th century Germany.
Related: These Ancient Greek Inventions Helped Shape Our World
The first records of trial by jury come from Ancient Greece. During the 5th century BC a jury was established in Athens. It was massive by today’s standards; a typical jury consisted of 501 Athenian men, but for major or controversial cases, it could be expanded to over a thousand members always in an odd number. The jurors were so many in number to prevent any bribery from taking place.
Cases were decided by simple majority rule. After both the defendant and accuser had presented their arguments, the jury voted by placing a specific disk in a marked urn.
Among their many great contributions to the world, the Ancient Greeks also left us the vending machine. However, the Greeks’ vending machines didn’t dispense candy and snacks but rather holy water. They were invented by scientist and mathematician Hero of Alexandria c. 10-70 AD, and described in detail in his book 'Pneumatics'.
Hero’s vending machine operated much like the modern version does - you inserted a coin into a slot, then the coin hits a pan, which was attached to a lever. When the coin hit, the lever would move, opening a valve, through which the holy water came out. These vending machines were a way for temples to earn some money while also helping the people worship.
Related: 12 Popular Inventions That Are Actually From Ancient China
Fun History: How Pink Became the ‘Official’ Girls’ Color
It seems like a natural law of the world at this point, but actually, pink wasn’t always associated with girls. This video explains how the phenomenon began.
5 Lies That Changed the Course of History
These massive historical lies spread so far and wide that they ended up altering history forever.
History vs. Hollywood: The Real Voyagers of the Titanic
A great many of the characters in the 1997 hit movie Titanic were based on real people. These are the stories and faces of the real voyagers of the Titanic.
We Bet You Didn’t Know These Surprising Facts!
The more we learn about the world, the better can we understand how marvelous, fascinating, and unexpected it is. Here are 12 surprising facts to prove it.
The Fascinating Histories of 8 Everyday Hand Gestures
We hardly give gestures like thumbs up or crossed fingers a second thought, but these signs have backstories and origins, and they are quite fascinating!
How Come Humans are The Only Species To Have Language?
Language allows us to express an unlimited number of things, and humans are the only species capable of it. How did all came to be?
9 Facts About Ancient Egypt You Probably Didn’t Know
Venture beyond the usual facts about the pyramids and Tutankhamen and learn 9 equally fascinating facts and misconceptions about Ancient Egypt
The Story of Skidboot: An Amazing Dog!
The story of Skidboot is a happy and sad one...
Why You Might Want to Consider Switching to a Futon Bed
In this article, we will learn what a real futon bed is and if it is better for spine health than a western bed.
Yasuke: The Story of the African Samurai
The incredible historical story of an African man who went to Japan on a Portuguese ship and never came back, remaining as a powerful Samurai named Yasuke.
2024 is Here! And This is Why You Should Be Excited for It
2024 is here! And this is why you should be excited for it.
Looking for a New Hobby? Learn How to Crochet
This playlist will teach you the basic skills you will need to successfully navigate the world of crocheting.
Can You Spot the Camouflaged Creatures in These Photos?
These wonderful animals have gone into hiding. Can you find them? If not, just click on the photo to reveal all!
Phrases We Use Without Realizing It’s a Shakespeare Quote
William Shakespeare had a huge impact on modern English, so much so that most of us are quoting the great bard every day without even realizing it!
12 of the Most Inexplicably Weird Things Ever Discovered
In the world, a lot of discoveries often raise more questions than they answer. Here are 12 of the most inexplicably weird things and places ever found.
If You Like Greek Mythology, Don’t Miss These Movies!
If you’re interested in Greek mythology, then make sure you check out these amazing films.
Have You Ever Seen Ducks With Jobs? You're About To!
Watch the day-to-day life of these incredible ducks, who just so happen to spend their lives on a wine farm...
History Lesson: How Japan Met Europe for the First Time
This video delves into the fascinating story of how the Portuguese and Japanese of the 16th century met, two distinct worlds, exploring the initial contact.
The MOST Shocking False Etymologies in English
If a word's history sounds too good, it probably is.
Hark Back to Meiji-Era Japan With These Stunning Pictures
The Meiji Era was a time of great change for Japan, transforming from a feudal state into a capitalist, imperialist one. Take a look at these stunning pictures.
There is No Greater Blessing than Your Family
Beautiful Words: Having a family to care for is a blessing.
10 Difficult Words in English Everyone Should Know
English has many difficult words with meanings that are nearly impossible to guess, which makes them super tough to remember. Here are 10 such words
From Ages 7 to 93 these People Share Tips on Ageing Gracefully
Watch people of all ages offer words of wisdom to their younger counterparts.
6 Depression-Era Criminals You Wouldn't Want to Cross!
During America's Great Depression, the rate of crimes increased drastically. Here are 6 of the most notorious Depression-Era bank robbers.
You'd Never See THIS in a Modern Home
In this video, we'll visit some old homes and learn about their obsolete features.
History: The Full Story of Napoleon's Epic Defeat
The full story of the battles Napoleon fought that eventually lead to his ultimate defeat.
The Slightly Bizarre Club of Hair for Men!
Meet the largest community of men dedicated to growing and celebrating their beards and mustaches, all gathered in Las Vegas, Nevada, to attend the 2012 National Beard and Mustache Championships! You have never seen so much epic, amazing and downrigh
I've Never Heard This Amazing Tale From the 2nd World War
This is going to be one of the most amazing stories you've ever heard. I guarantee it.
Wow! I Had No Idea That Whales Could Show Gratitude!
One whale was so grateful for the man who saved his life, he showed his appreciation - by dancing!
The Epic Battle of Stalingrad Comes to Life
One of the most epic battles in history, and the biggest of WWII comes to life and explored in this in-depth video.
INTERACTIVE: The Musings of Philosophers Through the Ages
The great thinkers have imbued the world with greater knowledge and different perspectives. Learn about what the wisest men in history had to say.
Do You Remember Playing Like These Photographed Children?
In the days before cellphones, the internet, and the like, we children had to learn how to make our fun. Remember playing like these retro kids?
Wow! Look at the Size of These Massive Fruits & Veggies!
These massive fruits and vegetables could feed you for an entire year!
13 Insightful & Thoughtful Quotes by John F. Kennedy
In this article, we will explore some of the best quotes by John F. Kennedy, which reveal the depth of his wisdom and his dedication to public service.
Learning to Trust Again - Rehabilitating an Abused Dog
Ralph the abandoned dog learns to trust again...
Say Cheers & Raise Your Drinks to These 15 Terrific Toasts
I have been known to offer a few toasts myself when the occasion has grabbed me, but these are 15 of the very best toasts I have ever heard.
18 of the Most Incredibly-Timed Photos You'll Ever See
These photos will leave you in awe of their timing. The visual impact they have is staggering. Take a look at these 18 images.
The Mandela Effect: When Everyone Misremembers History
The Mandela Effect is a strange phenomenon, where large amounts of people seem to remember things differently.
20th Century: The MOST Popular Breakfast of Every Decade
Breakfast shape-shifted quite a bit during the 20th century. Discover the most popular breakfast delicacy of every decade in this article
10 Mysteries that have Shocked Human History
10 incredible mysteries we know very little about.
This Has to be the Most Graceful Dance Performance Ever!
A breathtaking and beautiful performance by Cheetah Platt and Erica Linz on the gound and in the air.
A Look into Ancient Greece Like You've Never Seen Before
What can interior design and fashion trends tell us about a culture? A lot more than you think.
This Is One of The Most Beautiful Duets I've Ever Seen
Watch this mesmerizing duet from 1981 featuring Donovan and Crystal Gayle. This live performance is their rendition of the classic 60s song ‘Catch the Wind’
23 Extraordinary Vision Facts That'll Open Your Eyes Wide
The eye is an amazing body part, but did you know how amazing? These 23 facts will open your eyes to the extraordinary truth.
This Triple Spiral Domino Is Driving the Internet WILD!
Hevesh5 is a professional domino artist that is tearing the internet apart with this amazing display! I have never seen anything like this!
The Eerie, Spiritual, and Sometimes Fun History of Masks
Let’s get to know some of the most famous masks in history and the civilizations that created them.
These Rare Photos Tell the Story of the Great Depression
A photographic summary depiction of The Great Depression.