They say that art is subjective, but no matter what year they came out, certain films have become iconic for the simple act of making people laugh. While there may be different movies for different people, there’s no denying these comedies have created their own legacies with laughs for everyone.

Some Like It Hot (1959)

Some of the best comedies are also some of the oldest. Some Like it Hot features two musicians who flee the state after witnessing a mob hit, and disguise themselves as women in an all-women band. It’s considered one of the best films in history, not unlike this next movie.

Ashton Productions, Some Like It Hot (1959)

Animal House (1978)

While it did meet a mixed reception when released, National Lampoon's Animal House has since become known as a paramount comedy of its time. The chaotic college comedy about a fraternity trying to stick it to their Dean has stood the test of time and been referenced in countless movies and TV shows. 

Universal, National Lampoon's Animal House (1978)

The Big Lebowski (1998)

A comedy that feels like it’s been around forever, The Big Lebowski has maintained its rank among masterpieces since its release. The comedy about a case of mistaken identity leading to a wild, hilarious adventure is truly one for the books. 

Polygram Filmed Entertainment, The Big Lebowski (1998)

The 40-Year-Old Virgin (2005)

In the 2000s, you couldn’t go to a movie theatre without seeing the posters for a Judd Apatow comedy. One of his all-time best works is The 40-Year-Old Virgin, starring Steve Carell. The story is self-explanatory, and it helped put Apatow’s name on the map.

Universal, The 40 Year Old Virgin (2005)

Mrs Doubtfire (1993)

One of Robin Williams’ most recognizable roles is as the titular character in Mrs Doubtfire. The story of a divorced dad trying to be present in his kids’ lives while masquerading as their nanny is hilarious and emotional, becoming a pinnacle of family comedies. However, some of the best comedies are more like cult classics.

Twentieth Century, Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

Nacho Libre (2006)

Director Jared Hess’ Nacho Libre tells the tale of a monk who follows his dream of being a luchador wrestler. Although initially receiving mixed reviews, the movie has gained a cult following over the years. It wasn’t Hess’ first foray into the genre, though. 

Paramount, Nacho Libre (2006)

Napoleon Dynamite (2004)

Jared Hess’ first feature-length comedy may not have all the glamor of some blockbusters, but it remains a memorable film to this day. The deadpan story of a rural teenager is remarkably ordinary, but as with our next movie, dry humor can be a comedic goldmine.

Fox Searchlight Pictures, Napoleon Dynamite (2004)

Office Space (1999)

Office Space may have had a disappointing debut according to director Mike Judge, but it wouldn’t always be that way. As it grew older, the satirical film about a man transforming from an insecure, miserable office worker to a blasé and content layabout had a slow burn of appreciation. Turns out, comedies are a welcome space for slackers.

Twentieth Century, Office Space (1999)

Hot Rod (2007)

Thanks to Saturday Night Live and Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Andy Samberg became a household name. However, early in his career, his comedy about a trio of lovable losers trying to be a stunt team gained a cult following. Sometimes, though, three is a crowd.

Paramount, Hot Rod (2007)

Friday (1995)

One of Ice Cube’s first films was also one of his most iconic. Friday told the story of two friends trying to come up with the money they owe to someone, and it quickly became one of the best cult classics. Still, it’s not the only movie with a fan-favorite duo.

New Line Cinema, Friday (1995)

Wayne's World (1992)

Perhaps Mike Myers’ first big role was in a cult classic he helped write, Wayne’s World. It told the story of two best friends and their adventures, specifically their attempts to make their own TV show. Still, another pair of slackers may be even more famous.

Paramount, Wayne's World

Bill And Ted's Excellent Adventure (1989)

Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure launched Keanu Reeves’ career and spawned a beloved franchise. Who knew the story of two high school losers who travel through time would have such a following? Thankfully, unlike the next duo, Bill and Ted never had to survive a horror movie.

De Laurentiis Entertainment, Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure (1989)

Tucker And Dale Vs Evil (2010)

The first horror comedy on this list is none other than Tucker and Dale vs Evil, a movie that flips a few horror tropes on their heads. In the film, two hillbilly friends are just trying to fix up their cabin in the woods, when a group of college kids mistake them for kidnappers. The result is a dark horse pick that takes comedy to unexpected, albeit darker, heights.

Reliance Entertainment, Tucker and Dale vs Evil (2010)

What We Do In The Shadows (2014)

The New Zealand mockumentary What We Do in the Shadows follows the everyday life of three vampires living together and trying to make it in the modern day. As one of Taika Waititi’s best films, it became such a success that it spawned an even more popular TV series of the same name. It’s not the only parody film on this list, though.

Unison Films, What We Do in the Shadows (2014)

Airplane! (1980)

As one of the ultimate spoof comedies, it's surprising that when Airplane! first released, it wasn’t that big. However, as time passed, appreciation grew for the film and people began to recognize it as a classic. But later that decade, another incredible parody film would join the spotlight.

Paramount, Airplane! (1980)

Spaceballs (1987)

With Star Wars having come out a decade prior, it seemed only fitting for the first feature-length parody of the movie to be released. From director and writer Mel Brooks, Spaceballs parodied not only Star Wars, but sci-fi as a whole, and became a cult classic. It wouldn’t be Brooks’ last spoof film, however.

Brooksfilms, Spaceballs (1987)

Robin Hood: Men In Tights (1993)

In Robin Hood: Men in Tights, Mel Brooks was parodying not only the Robin Hood legend in general but specifically Kevin Costner’s Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. While it had mixed reviews when it debuted, it became a timeless classic. Still, Robin Hood isn’t the only ambiguously historical figure with a spoof comedy.

Brooksfilms, Robin Hood: Men in Tights (1993)

Monty Python And The Holy Grail (1975)

When Monty Python and the Holy Grail was released, the comedy troupe had already been around for a few years. Even so, their comedic take on the King Arthur legend became an undeniable hit and one of their most iconic bits. However, fantastical parody comedies aren’t just for live-action.

Python (Monty) Pictures, Monty Python And The Holy Grail (1975)

Shrek (2001)

Spawning several sequels and spin-offs, there’s no doubt that Shrek had one of the biggest impacts on pop culture. The story of an ogre named Shrek (Mike Myers) trying to reclaim his home took a hilarious, satirical look at popular fairy tales. But of course, Myers was an icon even before he was an ogre.

DreamWorks, Shrek (2001)

Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery (1997)

Acting as an obvious spoof of the James Bond franchise, the first in the Austin Powers trilogy became a staple of the parody film genre. It’s Mike Myers doing some of his funniest work and has countless memorable moments. However, it’s not the only spy comedy out there.

Capella Films, Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997)

Johnny English (2003)

A true titan of comedic acting, Rowan Atkinson stars as the titular character in Johnny English, one of his best works. He completely nails the role of a bumbling spy who is only on a big mission because he’s the last one left. It’s packed with hilar

ious dialogue and loads of physical comedy, but it’s not the only outstanding comedy from across the pond.

Universal, Johnny English (2003)

Shaun Of The Dead (2004)

One of director Edgar Wright’s earliest films is the zombie comedy Shaun of the Dead, and although its production had its difficulties, it’s one of the best examples of horror comedy. The story of a friend group trying to survive the zombie apocalypse in London became an instant favorite. However, this was only the first in Wright’s Three Flavours Of Cornetto trilogy.

Universal, Shaun Of The Dead (2004)

Hot Fuzz (2007)

Only a few years later, Edgar Wright would come out with the next installment in his trilogy, which many fans say is their favorite. Hot Fuzz features a hard London officer who gets transferred to a small town that only seems peaceful on the surface. Of course, as with the next movie, action comedies are everywhere.

Universal, Hot Fuzz (2007)

21 Jump Street (2012)

When 21 Jump Street came out, it wasn’t clear why a follow-up to the 80s TV show was needed. However, any doubters were quickly silenced as the story of two law enforcement officers going undercover in a high school became one of the best comedies of its time. Still, adding “adventure” to the action comedy genre is even better.

Columbia, 21 Jump Street (2012)

The Princess Bride (1987)

Based on the 1973 novel of the same name, The Princess Bride has become a staple in pop culture. It’s a sweeping epic about love, revenge, and adventure that features iconic scenes and dialogue that still hold up to this day. Like a few other movies, mixing comedy with different genres is sometimes the best choice.

Act III Communications, The Princess Bride (1987)

Clue (1985)

It may seem odd to create a movie based on a board game, but with Clue, it would have been a shame not to. The film is a classic whodunnit mystery comedy with a group of people trapped in a mansion. Pairing that with multiple endings and amazing performances resulted in an instant classic.

Paramount, Clue (1985)

Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008)

Jason Segel’s film about a TV composer trying to get over his actress ex-girlfriend is hilarious and full of heart. It came out earlier in his career, but became a rom-com beloved by many. However, hybrid comedies can include more than horror, action, or romance—what about one of our favorite Christmas movies? 

Universal, Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008)

Elf (2003)

It’s hard to believe that one of director Jon Favreau’s first films ever became such a sensation. Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, who after being raised as an elf, tries to find his family in New York. Even beyond Elf, though, Ferrell is an undeniable master of comedy.

New Line Cinema, Elf (2003)

Anchorman: The Legend Of Ron Burgundy (2004)

Just a year later, Will Ferrell would come out with another of his most iconic roles. The first in the Anchorman duology features Ron Burgundy as he grapples with his new co-anchor. While Ron may be a bit immature sometimes, he’s got nothing on Ferrell’s next character.

DreamWorks, Anchorman The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)

Step Brothers (2008)

Partnering with another comedic legend, Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly came together to make Step Brothers. The story of two man-children becoming step-brothers shouldn’t be so groundbreakingly hilarious, but it was. There’s no denying that a pair of idiots is often a wellspring of comedy.

ColumbiaStep Brothers (2008)

Dumb And Dumber (1994)

Dumb and Dumber tells the story of two idiots traveling across the country to return a woman’s briefcase. It’s a simple story, and the comedy may—as the name suggests—not be for everyone, but there’s no denying that it became a pinnacle of the genre. Sometimes you only need one dimwit, however.

New Line Cinema, Dumb and Dumber (1994)

Zoolander (2001)

What started as a couple of shorts starring Ben Stiller turned into a full-fledged satirical comedy about the fashion industry. Although Zoolander was first met with criticism and negative reviews, it eventually became a beloved comedy with ultra-memorable moments, especially Stiller’s classic “blue-steel” look.

Paramount, Zoolander (2001)

Tommy Boy (1995)

Featuring comedy legend Chris Farley, Tommy Boy explores the classic trope of pairing an imbecile with an over-achiever. In the timeless comedy, the two try to save the family business when Tommy (Farley) inherits ownership. It’s not the first film to use this formula, though.

Broadway Pictures, Tommy Boy (1995)

Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987)

This and Tommy Boy are similar in many ways, however, Planes, Trains & Automobiles not only came first but is held up by its own merit. The movie is about a man trying to get home for Thanksgiving, but having to do so with an unwanted traveling companion. Its masterful humor and tear-jerking drama have made it an absolute favorite for comedy fans.

Paramount, Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)

Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986)

Another film that defined the 80s, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off follows a teenager who goes insane lengths to skip school and make the most of it. It’s one of the most iconic comedies that doubles as a comfort film for many. It seems like coming-of-age comedies are also one of the most popular subgenres.

Paramount, Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986)

Superbad (2007)

While Michael Cera had already been in the world of television for a few years, Superbad was Jonah Hill’s breakthrough role. The high school comedy about unpopular friends dealing with the days leading up to graduation became an instant hit. But these kinds of movies don’t always have to be about the losers.

Columbia, Superbad (2007)

Mean Girls (2004)

Tina Fey’s classic high school comedy Mean Girls is the story of a new girl in school trying to take down the popular girls. With extremely quotable dialogue and an all-star cast, it became a testament to comedy in the early 2000s.

Paramount, Mean Girls (2004)

Bridesmaids (2011)

With a legendary ensemble cast, Bridesmaids became a standout comedy of the 2010s. As the name implies, it follows a group of bridesmaids as they fight their own dysfunction. Like the next movies, it proves that some of the best comedies are more recent.

Universal, Bridesmaids (2011)

The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent (2022)

One of the latest buddy comedies explores the bizarre genius of Nicolas Cage’s acting. The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent tells the story of Cage’s fictionalized life, where he must accept an offer to hang out with a fan of his for $1 million. It’s funny, heartwarming, and action-packed all in one.

Burr! Productions, The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent (2022)

Barbie (2023)

Greta Gerwig’s recent satirical comedy almost needs no introduction. That said, Barbie became an immediate worldwide phenomenon with an enormous cultural impact. The movie about Barbie’s struggles with the real world is hilarious, but it also carries a lot of heart and a sincere message.

Warner Bros., Barbie (2023)

Grace Kelly, Hollywood royal turned real-life royal, died on September 14, 1982, after a tragic car accident that set forth plenty of theories and speculation, and led the world to reflect on Princess Grace’s two very different lives.

Tragic Car Accident

Princess Grace of Monaco’s death came one day after the 1972 Rover P6 3500 she was driving plunged 120 feet over an embankment in southern France.

Pierre Tourigny, Wikimedia Commons

Driving Back To The Palace

Grace had been driving her 17-year-old daughter Stéphanie from the royal family’s summer home back to their palace in Monaco when Grace crashed through a retaining wall on the edge of a particularly sharp corner.

Alberto Botella, Flickr

A Train To Catch

Mother and daughter were planning to catch the train to Paris, where Princess Stéphanie was about to start another school year, before things went horribly wrong.

Howell Conant, Wikimedia Commons

Too Much Baggage

Grace’s chauffeur had offered to drive, but in a fateful decision Grace said there was too much luggage to fit three people in the car, so she’d drive instead.

cwangdom, Flickr

Fateful Departure

On that fateful Monday morning, Grace and Stéphanie set off from the family’s summer home on the slopes of France’s Mont Agel outside of Monaco, but the car would never reach its destination.

oneredsf1, Flickr

Ominous Headache

As mother and daughter neared La Turbie, a medieval village, Grace complained of a headache, and appeared to black out briefly.

Insomnia Cured Here, Flickr

No Brakes

When she came to, Grace said the brakes weren’t working.

Hans Peters, Wikimedia Commons

Hit By A Stroke

It’s thought that Princess Grace had suffered a minor cerebral hemorrhage, but in a car traveling through hilly terrain the stroke would have major consequences.

cwangdom, Flickr

Accelerating Danger

Perhaps because of the stroke, Grace either mistook the accelerator for the brake pedal, or lost control of her legs. Either way, the car was now out of control.

Insomnia Cured Here, Flickr

Daughter Intervenes

As the danger mounted, Stéphanie leaned over to pull the hand brake, but to no avail. She also shifted the car into park, but that didn’t help either. 

MichaelXXLF, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Car Plunges

The car, hitting a sharp corner, veered off the road and plunged down the slope. Astonishingly, even after the vehicle’s long plummet, both mother and daughter were alive.

picture alliance, Getty Images

Crumpled Wreck

The car was so damaged that Stéphanie had to escape through the driver’s side, leading to false claims she had been the driver, despite witnesses reporting it was Grace they’d seen driving before the accident.

Alfred Hitchcock, Wikimedia Commons

Stéphanie Leaves The Hospital

Incredibly, Stéphanie left the hospital the next day with a light concussion, some broken ribs, and minor damage to a vertebra in her head—but her mother wasn't so fortunate.

Roland Gerrits, Wikimedia Commons

Grace’s Injuries

Although Grace suffered a broken thigh, collarbone, and ribs, these injuries were not what directly led to her death.

Metro Goldwyn Mayer, Wikimedia Commons

Another Cerebral Hemorrhage

Instead, the impact of the crash, besides causing the more obvious injuries, likely set the stage for what did prove fatal: a second cerebral hemorrhage, which put Grace into a coma.

Doctors labored valiantly, but eventually gave up hope.

Los Angeles Times, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Consultation With The Family

Grace's husband, Prince Rainier III, agreed that life support should be turned off, and Princess Grace died the evening of September 14, 1982, at the age of 52.

Abbie Row, Wikimedia Commons

The Palace’s Misleading Optimism

The Palace had been putting out optimistic statements about the Princess’s condition, so her death proved particularly shocking, even to family members and palace staff.

Wikimedia Commons, Picryl

Wrong Time, Wrong Place

One of the many sad aspects of Princess Grace's death is that if she hadn’t been driving, she likely would’ve survived the initial cerebral hemorrhage, experts suspect.

REPORTERS ASSOCIES, Getty Images

Not A Driving Fan

And she wasn’t even a driving fan. It was only the numerous dresses and boxes that filled the car that made her decide to drive. Yet even then, her chauffeur insisted he could come back for the clothes. But Grace decided to take the wheel herself.

Superzen, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

A Corner Too Sharp

Mother and daughter headed off, and as Grace complained about her headache, the fateful corner approached, requiring a 150° turn. They were but a short distance from the border of Monaco at this point.

Hans, Peter, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

No Skidmarks Were Found

A driver behind Grace’s car never saw its brake lights go on, and investigators found no skid marks, lending credence to the idea Grace never pressed on the brakes.

Pictorial Parade, Getty Images

No One Was Wearing Seat Belts

Investigators also found no evidence the brakes had failed, but they did confirm that neither driver nor passenger had been wearing seat belts.

Mondadori Portfolio, Getty Images

Boy Talk

Another theory was that mother and daughter were arguing about Stéphanie’s desire to marry her boyfriend, a racing car driver named Paul Belmondo, son of famous French actor Jean-Paul Belmondo.

Georges Biard, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Grace Was Possibly Distracted

If true, it might suggest that Grace was distracted as she drove. Stéphanie has refused to confirm or deny the theory, saying the discussion is “strictly between the two of us.”

Bud Fraker, Wikimedia Commons

A Summer of Discontent

What about the strokes? Grace’s oldest daughter, Princess Caroline, has said her mother wasn’t feeling well all summer, and some people have speculated she had high blood pressure and was going through menopause.

Unknown Artist, Wikimedia Commons

Late Brain Scan

Another complication was that the large Monaco hospital Grace was brought to couldn’t perform a proper brain scan. 

Instead, it took time to get her to a private clinic, which performed the scans that revealed Grace’s brain damage from the cerebral hemorrhages.

Bettmann, Getty Images

Irreversible State

Knowing that Grace was now brain dead, Prince Rainier consulted with two of his children, Caroline and Albert II. They agreed it was time for life support to be turned off. She died the evening of September 14, 1982.

Bettmann, Getty Images

Paying Their Respects

26,000 mourners filed past Grace's coffin as she lay in state at Monaco’s royal palace, and the funeral itself was seen by 100 million viewers around the world.

Gilles GIRIBALDI ,Getty Images

Movie Legends Show Up

Besides royalty and politicians, actors Jimmy Stewart and Cary Grant attended, reminders of the glamorous Hollywood career that Grace Kelly had given up at the age of 26 when she became Princess Grace of Monaco.

Sunset Boulevard, Getty Images

Flashback To The Hitchcock Star

Included in her cinematic triumphs, Grace had starred in Alfred Hitchcock’s Rear Window in 1954 with Stewart and the same director’s To Catch A Thief with Grant in 1955.

Dell Publications, Wikimedia Commons

Movie Shot Close To Monaco

Hitchcock shot some of To Catch A Thief in 1954 near Monaco, including in Cannes. But it was to be another year before Grace would meet her future husband.

Los Angeles Times, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Train Of Events

Actress Olivia de Havilland happened to see Grace on a train from Paris on their way to the 1955 Cannes Film Festival, and thought she should meet Prince Rainier.

USMC Military History Division, Wikimedia Commons

Meeting At The Palace

Two days later, Grace and her entourage arrived at Rainier’s Monaco palace, but the Prince was late.

Associated Booking Corp., Wikimedia Commons

Private Talk

He eventually did show up, and had a private conversation with Grace as they walked ahead of the others. Grace seemed to be enchanted from that very first encounter. 

Prince Rainier would visit the United States to continue courting the charming movie star.

Unknown Author, Wikimedia Commons

As Seen On TV

The couple married about a year later, on April 18 and 19, 1956, and broke new ground in television history with a live broadcast watched by 30 million viewers.

Trailer screenshot, Wikimedia Commons

Hollywood Hopes Dashed

Initially, Princess Grace seems to have wanted to keep on making films, but her husband squashed the idea. Instead, Grace turned her energies to her family and philanthropy.

Trailer screenshot, Wikimedia Commons

Curtains To The Silver Screen

Grace therefore had to give up not only her passion for acting, but also the high fees a top-notch Hollywood actress could demand.

Paramount Pictures, Wikimedia Commons

High Price To Pay

And the loss of income doesn’t even include the $2-million dowry she’d had to pay in order to marry into the Royal House of Grimaldi.

Studio publicity still, Wikimedia Commons

In Her Own Name

When Princess Grace died, she had just $10,000 to her name and her grandfather’s decrepit cottage in Ireland that she’d inherited. In the end, it seems Grace Kelly had become both a Princess and a Pauper.

oneredsf1, Flickr

Whether it's Bill Murray's love for his hometown or Shaggy's celebration of Jamaican cuisine, each of these celebrity-owned restaurants tells a unique story and offers a taste of star quality. 

So, why not let your next dining experience be served with a side of Hollywood glamour? 

Read on to discover our top 10 picks for celebrity-owned restaurants from around the world that you must try.

1. Soul Kitchen

Wikimedia

Celeb Owner: Jon Bon Jovi
Location: Red Bank, New Jersey

Jon Bon Jovi, the frontman of the legendary rock band Bon Jovi, started Soul Kitchen, a restaurant that serves only locally-sourced, organic food. 

The restaurant has no prices and instead operates on a pay-it-forward model, allowing patrons to volunteer for their meal. 

Bon Jovi started this restaurant out of a desire to help the community. As of July 2023, over 170,000 meals have been served, with over half of those meals earned through volunteering. 

2. Laughing Man Coffee

Wikimedia

Celeb Owner: Hugh Jackman
Location: New York City, New York 

Hugh Jackman, an actor best known for his role as Wolverine in the X-Men film series, co-founded Laughing Man Coffee, a cafe that sells fair-trade coffee with all profits going back to the coffee-growing communities.

Jackman was inspired to start Laughing Man Coffee after a trip to Ethiopia where he met a coffee farmer named Dukale. He decided he wanted to help create a marketplace for farmers in developing countries to sell their goods directly to consumers. 

3. Southern Hospitality

Wikimedia

Celeb Owner: Justin Timberlake
Location: New York City, New York 

Justin Timberlake, an internationally acclaimed musician and actor, is a co-founder of Southern Hospitality, a BBQ-focused eatery that boasts dishes like Baby Back Ribs and Pulled Pork.

Timberlake was inspired by his Southern roots and the mouth-watering BBQ from his home state. 

This nostalgia prompted him to open Southern Hospitality and bring a taste of Tennessee to NYC. 

4. 40/40 Club

Wikimedia

Celeb Owner: Jay Z
Location: New York City, New York 

Jay Z, an influential rapper and music producer, is the owner of the 40/40 Club, an upscale sports bar and lounge that offers a blend of sports, music, and food in a chic setting.

The name "40/40" is a baseball term for the elite group of players who have hit 40 home runs and stolen 40 bases in a single season, reflecting Jay Z's love for sports. 

5. The Varsity

Wikimedia

Celeb Owner: Bill Murray
Location: Charleston, South Carolina

Bill Murray, a versatile actor known for his roles in movies like "Ghostbusters" and "Lost in Translation", co-owns The Varsity, a family-friendly eatery that serves local favorites like burgers and beer.

Murray opened The Varsity with his brothers in his hometown. 

The eatery is a testament to Murray's love for his city and his penchant for bringing people together with good food and cheer. 

6. Ole Red

Wikimedia

Celeb Owner: Blake Shelton
Location: Nashville, Tennessee

Blake Shelton, a country singer and one of the coaches on NBC’s "The Voice", owns Ole Red, a lively entertainment venue that serves Southern cuisine with a side of live country music.

Ole Red takes its name from Shelton’s breakout hit, "Ol’ Red".

A fan of laid-back, Southern fun, Shelton aimed to create a restaurant that reflected his easygoing personality and love of country music. 

7. Wahlburgers

Wikimedia

Celeb Owner: Mark Wahlberg
Location: Multiple locations across North America

Mark Wahlberg, an actor famed for his roles in "Boogie Nights" and "The Departed", co-owns Wahlburgers, a casual dining burger joint, with his brothers Donnie and Paul.

The restaurant was born out of a reality TV show of the same name. The show, which follows the Wahlberg brothers' adventures in starting a burger restaurant, became a hit, and the burger joint itself quickly followed suit.

Wahlburgers boasts family recipes and a fun atmosphere.

8. Martha's At The Star

Wikimedia

Celeb Owner: Martha Stewart
Location: Frisco, Texas

Martha Stewart, a household name for her lifestyle brand, owns Martha's at The Star, a bakery that offers sweets, sandwiches, and coffee, all with Stewart's signature touch.

Stewart, ever the entrepreneur, saw a great opportunity to expand her empire into the culinary world. 

Martha's at The Star not only offers food, but also sells Martha Stewart-branded merchandise.

9. RPM Italian

Wikimedia

Celeb Owner: Bill Rancic
Location: Chicago, Illinois

Bill Rancic, an entrepreneur and the first winner of "The Apprentice", co-owns RPM Italian with his wife Giuliana. The elegant Italian restaurant serves modern Italian classics in a stylish setting.

RPM Italian was born out of Bill Rancic's passion for Italian food and his desire to bring a modern twist to classic Italian dishes. 

The "RPM" in RPM Italian stands for "Rancic, Paris Club, Melman", the last name of the partners involved in the restaurant.

10. Shaggy's

Wikimedia

Celeb Owner: Shaggy
Location: Kingston, Jamaica

Shaggy, a Grammy-winning artist known for hits like "It Wasn't Me" and "Angel", co-owns Shaggy's, a restaurant that offers a blend of Caribbean and international cuisine, providing a culinary journey for diners.

Shaggy, a native Jamaican, opened Shaggy's to celebrate his island's vibrant culture and cuisine. 

The restaurant serves a mix of international dishes with a Jamaican twist, mirroring Shaggy's own blend of reggae and pop music.

From musicians to actors to lifestyle moguls, these celebrities have parlayed their fame into successful restaurant ventures, offering their fans a taste of their personal culinary passions. 

Whether it's a casual burger joint or an upscale Italian restaurant, each establishment reflects its celebrity owner's unique style and taste.

Inspired by positive psychology, WalletHub looked at 29 factors such as the rate of depression and the percentage of people getting a good night’s sleep. And earning more money does mean more happiness—but not beyond $75,000 a year, say researchers. So let’s see what cities wear the broadest smiles!

1. Fremont, California

Topping the list with a 74% score, Fremont has the highest percentage of households earning $75,000 or more per year, nearly 80%, so Fremont pretty much maximizes the income factor.

Indy beetle, CC0, Wikimedia Commons

2. Overland Park, Kansas

And dropping to the upper 60s, the second-happiest city has our lowest poverty rate and great sports participation. There’s also lots of sleep after, so it checks off some great positive-psychology boxes!

Chris Murphy, Flickr

3. San Jose, California

Also in California is San Jose, taking the spot for third place. It tops life expectancy for city dwellers as well as low rates of divorce, separation, and depression, so a whole lot less stress all around.

mplstodd, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

4. Madison, Wisconsin

Coming in at #4 is Madison, Wisconsin, runner-up for the percentage of residents getting enough shut-eye—but that’s not to say it’s a sleepy town. Remember, well-rested means perky in the morning!

college.library, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

5. Irvine, California

So all that California sun probably helps keep our fifth-happiest city’s rate of depression pretty low, plus ranking #2 in sports participation and #3 for lowest divorce and separation rates.

Chris Hunkeler, Flickr

6. Honolulu, Hawaii

Speaking of sunny places, our sixth-happiest city leads on community and environment, likely helped by the fact that the island of Oahu is actually free of active volcanoes!

Ron Cogswell, Flickr

7. San Francisco, California

San Francisco ranks #3 for emotional and physical well-being. And despite being #81 out of 182 for income and employment, it ends up with the title of seventh-happiest city in the United States.

SF Brit, Flickr

8. Pearl City, Hawaii

The least depressed city in America, this eighth-happiest city also has the second-lowest rate of separation and divorce, and ranks #2 on the survey’s look at community and environment.

Anthony Quintano CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

9. Columbia, Maryland

This Maryland city ranks #9 on the happiness list, despite coming in at #170 for income and employment, so its #5 ranking for physical and emotional well-being clearly helped in the end.

Powerhawk5k, CC0, Wikimedia Commons

10. Scottsdale, Arizona

Despite the longest work hours on the list, this desert city has been deemed the tenth-happiest place in America. And even with all that time on the job, the city ranks #5 for sports participation.

gem66, Flickr

11. Sioux Falls, South Dakota

At the 65% mark in our happiness index, Sioux Falls scores #10 for physical and emotional well-being, helping it reach #11 overall, despite ranking #57 on income and employment.

Warren LeMay, Flickr

12. Huntington Beach, California

Twelfth happiest, this California city scores #4 on the sports-participation list, but #77 for income and employment. Somehow it balances out, ranking 11th for emotional and physical well-being.

Toksave, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

13. Minneapolis, Minnesota

Thirteenth happiest with respectable rankings for emotional and physical well-being (#17), and for income and employment (#22), this snowy city slips on community and environment (#57).

Enrico Fuente, Flickr

14. Garden Grove, California

Scoring #15 on community and the environment, the 14th-happiest city in America ranks #24 for emotional and physical well-being, but ends up down the employment and income list at #52.

Justin.skoda, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

15. San Diego, California

Here’s another California city whose overall happiness ranking (#15) scores far higher than its income and employment ranking (#43). The tourists love it, so no surprise the locals do too!

Chris Parker, Flickr

16. Fargo, North Dakota

Very snowy Fargo ranks #134 out of 182 for community and environment, but ends up as the 16th-happiest city in America, scoring an impressive #11 for physical and emotional well-being.

Jonathan Geiger, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

17. Portland, Maine

Portland’s standout ranking is #3 for income and employment, coming in at #17 for happiness overall. And in case you’re wondering, the West Coast’s Portland, in Oregon, comes in at #67.

Oregon Department of Transportation, Flickr

18. Seattle, Washington

Eighteenth-happiest Seattle loves to participate in sports, ranking #3, and reaches #8 for income and employment. However, the tech hub sinks down to #128 for community and environment.

Howard Ignatius, Flickr

19. Lincoln, Nebraska

Coming in at #19, Nebraska’s capital city scores respectably enough on many factors, but its #43 on community and environment falls below the city’s other two main measures.

jpellgen, Flickr

20. Bismarck, North Dakota

At #20, state capital Bismark scores #12 on physical and emotional well-being and #11 on income and employment, but gets snowed under at #149 for community and environment.

Drew Tarvin, Flickr

21. Gilbert, Arizona

This desert city ranks high up at #7 for community and the environment, and has the fifth-lowest divorce and separation rate among the country’s cities, helping to put it at #21 on our list.

Hung Nguyen, Flickr

22. Charleston, South Carolina

This historical and cultural treasure of the South ranks pretty high up for community and environment (#15), as well as income and employment (#18), helping it reach #22 on our list.

Warren LeMay, Flickr

23. South Burlington, Vermont

Next door to Burlington, the 23rd-happiest city in the US scores #1 for sleep time and sports participation, though somehow scores an underwhelming #139 for community and environment.

Don Shall, Flickr

24. Glendale, California

Here’s another California city where low-ranked employment and income (#92) can’t stop it getting a pretty high happiness score (#24), helped by its community and environment ranking (#13).

Gedstrom, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

25. Anaheim, California

Land of Disneyland, 25th-ranked Anaheim reaches #26 for emotional and physical well-being, and #36 for community and environment, but hits a lower #55 ranking for income and employment.

Ken Lund, Flickr

26. Oakland, California

It’s not all A’s for Oakland as the 26th-happiest city in America ranks 14th for emotional and physical well-being, but 104th for employment and income—though it still comes in fifth for income growth.

Basil D Soufi, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

27. Chula Vista, California

Located along the east side of San Diego Bay, Chula Vista is another California city whose overall happiness (#27) outshines its employment and income (#87).

Roman Eugeniusz, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

28. Raleigh, North Carolina

A growing tech hub on the East Coast, 28th-happiest Raleigh scores #9 on physical and emotional well-being, though #126 on income and employment.

Abhiram Juvvadi, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

29. Santa Rosa, California

Located in California’s wine country, the 29th-happiest city in America comes in at #28 for emotional and physical well-being, and #34 for employment and income.

NoeHill, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

30. Santa Clarita, California

Ranking #122 for employment and income, this city northwest of Los Angeles reaches #30 on the overall happiness list, likely boosted by Magic Mountain’s thrills and plenty of hiking trails.

Jeffrey Beall, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

31. Boise, Idaho

Ranked #31 on the happiness list, Idaho’s capital hits #5 on the income and employment chart, compared to #76 for community and environment. 

Charles Knowles, Flickr

32. Oxnard, California

The 32nd-happiest city in the US reaches #16 for community and environment, while crouched down at #94 on the employment and income index.

Vox851, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

33. Chandler, Arizona

Maricopa County’s Chandler hits the #33 spot for overall happiness, and manages to reach #17 on the list for community and environment.

Chandlernews, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

34. Oceanside, California

As often seems to happen in sunny California, Oceanside’s #34 place overall surpasses its #102 rank for employment and income.

Scotwriter21, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

35. Plano, Texas

A Dallas–Fort Worth suburb, Plano scores a decent #35 on the happiness list, though only reaches #93 when it comes to income and employment.

Jim Nix, Flickr

36. Rapid City, South Dakota

While #36 on a happiness list of 182 cities sounds pretty good, Rapid City’s #19 ranking for income and employment surpasses some of its other measures.

Ken Lane, Flickr

37. Aurora, Illinois

At a smidgen above 60%, the 37th-happiest city is our last before we hit percentages in the upper 50s. On employment and income, it ranks 149th out of 182, a drag on the final score.

Sea Cow, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

38. Anchorage, Alaska

Alaska’s biggest city does well on community and environment, ranking #14, but gets poor scores on physical and mental well-being and on income and employment, leaving it at #38 overall.

Luke Jones, Flickr

39. Yonkers, New York

Next door to New York City, Yonkers ranks 39th on the happiness scale, and outdoes itself on physical and mental well-being, reaching #22 on that scale.

June Marie, Flickr

40. Chesapeake, Virginia

Overlapping Virginia’s Great Dismal Swamp, things aren’t totally dismal, as the city squeezes into our top 40 of happy cities, ranking an impressive #12 for community and environment.

Chesapeake Bay Program, Flickr

California Dreaming

So these are the happiest cities in America—with an awful lot in California, though to be fair it is the largest state with an awful lot of cities. And experts are going to juggle factors in whatever way makes them happy. So enjoy your happy place—and if it’s not, maybe move to one!

Geoff Livingston, Flickr

You're not alone. Budgeting can seem daunting, but it's truly the first step to gaining control and clarity over your finances. 

This beginner-friendly guide breaks down the essentials into bite-sized pieces, making the process feel less intimidating and more achievable. Let's simplify and demystify the world of budgeting together.

1. Understanding What A Budget Is

A budget is a financial plan that outlines your income and expenses over a specific period, often a month. By detailing where your money comes from and where it goes, you get a clearer picture of your financial health. 

It's a roadmap, guiding you towards financial discipline and preventing overspending.

2. Setting Clear Financial Goals

Wayhome Studio, Adobe Stock

Before you even start with numbers, define what you want to achieve. Whether it's saving for a vacation, reducing debt, or building an emergency fund, knowing your goals will give your budget purpose. 

Clear goals also provide motivation and a sense of direction as you allocate funds.

3. Tracking Your Income

Tima Miroshnichenko, Pexels

Detail all sources of income, including salaries, bonuses, and any passive income. Knowing how much money you have coming in is the starting point of any budget. 

Regularly updating this figure ensures you're always working with accurate and current data.

4. Listing All Expenses

Karolina Grabowska, Pexels

Start by listing fixed expenses like rent, utilities, and subscriptions. Then move to variable expenses such as groceries, entertainment, and dining out. 

Being meticulous in this step ensures you won't overlook any hidden costs that can creep up.

5. Categorizing Your Spending

ThisIsEngineering, Pexels

Organize your expenses into categories like 'Housing', 'Food', 'Transportation', and 'Leisure'. This makes it easier to see where your money goes and identify areas for potential savings. 

Categorization also simplifies the process of adjusting specific parts of your budget later on.

6. The 50/30/20 Rule

Nicholas Felix/peopleimages.com, Adobe Stock

A popular budgeting guideline suggests allocating 50% of your income to necessities, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings and debt repayment. This provides a simple framework to follow. 

It's a flexible guideline, allowing you to tweak percentages based on personal priorities.

7. Adjusting And Balancing Your Budget

Andrea Piacquadio , Pexels

It's unlikely you'll create a perfect budget on your first try. Review and adjust your allocations to ensure your expenses don't exceed your income. 

Iterative refining helps in honing your budgeting skills and tailoring it to your unique financial situation.

8. Making Room For Savings

Towfiqu barbhuiya, Pexels

Always pay yourself first. Even if it's a small amount, consistently setting money aside will create a strong savings habit and ensure financial security. 

This approach helps you prioritize long-term financial health over short-term desires.

9. Regularly Reviewing Your Budget

Ketut Subiyanto, Pexels

Your financial situation can change. Regularly revisiting and adjusting your budget ensures it remains relevant and effective. 

Whether it's a job change, unexpected expense, or windfall, regular reviews keep your budget dynamic.

10. Using Budgeting Tools And Apps

Courtney Haas/peopleimages.com, Adobe Stock

Consider leveraging technology to assist in your budgeting journey. Apps like Mint, YNAB (You Need a Budget), and PocketGuard can help track spending, set reminders, and provide valuable insights. 

Many apps also offer intuitive visualizations to help you grasp your financial picture at a glance.

While the idea of budgeting can seem daunting initially, it's a straightforward process once you get started. 

By understanding the basics and regularly revisiting your budget, you'll be well on your way to financial stability and success.

From fierce gunplay to dogfights in the skies over Britain, war movies bring us to the edge of our seats with action, emotion, or both. The best of these movies combine storytelling, drama, and realism to put the viewer right at the heart of the battle. To celebrate this incredible genre, here are 40 of the greatest war movies ever made!

We’ll preface this article by saying that there are many spoilers ahead! So, if you’d rather watch the films first (we suggest you do!) and then see if you agree with our list, that would be great!

30 Seconds Over Tokyo (1944)

30 Seconds Over Tokyo retells the story of the first air raid over Japan following the attack at Pearl Harbor. But, instead of glossing over the events of the raid and replacing it with rank anti-Japanese propaganda, the film depicts the raid and the aftermath in chilling detail. You spend time with the crew of the American aircraft as they reflect on their part in the deadly air raid.

Viewers should beware that anti-Japanese slurs appear frequently in the film.

MGM, Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo (1944)

War Horse (2011)

Steven Spielberg directs War Horse, a film about a young enlistee in the British Army named Albert and his horse, Joey. The movie covers the story of them being torn apart by conflict as Joey is sold to the British Army’s Household Cavalry, only to reunite during the film and survive together. It is based on the 1982 novel of the same name, written by Michael Morpurgo.

DreamWorks, War Horse (2011)

Napoleon (2023)

One of history’s most remembered French leaders, Napoleon Bonaparte, has had many a film about him, but perhaps none that reached the heights of Ridley Scott’s Napoleon. It follows the life of Napoleon, played by Joaquin Phoenix, from a young cavalry officer to a leader, a General, and eventually Emperor of France. Scott depicts most of Napoleon’s major battles and victories with stunning detail and historical accuracy, including his final battle at Waterloo in 1815.

This fantastic biopic of the French Emperor won three Academy Awards in 2023.

Columbia, Napoleon (2023)

Courage Under Fire (1996)

This is one of the first films about the Gulf conflict and one of the first films of the 1990s to tackle the “issue” of women in combat. Edward Zwick directed Courage Under Fire which features Denzel Washington as Lt. Colonel Serling, charged with uncovering the truth about a combat incident that may cost would-be Medal of Honor recipient, Captain Karen Walden, the highest honor in the armed services. Captain Walden is played in flashbacks by Meg Ryan.

The film doubles as a character study of secrecy and a mystery/Army thriller.

Twentieth Century, Courage Under Fire (1996)

Black Hawk Down (2001)

Black Hawk Down retells the true story of the Battle of Mogadishu in 1993. The Battle of Mogadishu was part of Operation Gothic Serpent, an American mission to capture Mohammed Farah Aidid, the leader of the Somali National Resistance. Aidid was wanted by the United Nations in connection with the slaying of UN forces. Black Hawk Down tells the tale of the failed raid by US forces to capture Aidid, the ensuing battles through the streets of Mogadishu, and the eventual rescue by the United Nations, following the loss of two helicopters and the deaths of 18 Americans.

Sony, Black Hawk Down (2001)

Jarhead (2005)

This adaptation of Anthony Swofford’s memoir, Jarhead was one of the most popular American Army films of the early 21st century. Set during the Persian Gulf conflict, Sam Mendes’ directorship takes an unusual turn as the troopers don’t see battle until three quarters of the way through the film. Jarhead depicts basic Marine training in excellent (if horrifying) detail and then shows the bond that forms between comrades-in-arms beautifully as Swofford (played by Jake Gyllenhaal) deploys with his unit to Kuwait.

Universal, Jarhead (2005)

The Last Of The Mohicans (1992)

Starring Daniel Day-Lewis, The Last of the Mohicans tells the story of a time in American history that Hollywood has largely forgotten about—the French-Indian conflict. Set in 1757, the film depicts Daniel Day-Lewis as the adopted son of a Mohican Native American tribal chief, attempting to recapture the daughters of a British colonel from a traitorous Mohawk. The rescue mission lasts throughout most of the film and is a fascinating and incredibly well-detailed look into a part of North American history that seems to have been forgotten.

Twentieth Century, The Last of the Mohicans (1992)

Three Kings (1999)

This fascinating turn-of-the-century film starring Mark Wahlberg, George Clooney, and Ice Cube depicts a failed gold heist by four American servicemen serving in Iraq in 1991. Three Kings tells the story of the capture and torment by Iraqi Intelligence of one of the team members (Mark Wahlberg) and his rescue by Clooney, Cube, and their enlisted help of Iraqi resistance fighters. Ultimately, Three Kings is a story about power and corruption at the end of an American conflict.

Warner Bros., Three Kings (1999)

Run Silent, Run Deep (1958)

Run Silent, Run Deep is another novel adaptation on our list. Made from a best-seller of the same name, the film depicts the struggle for power aboard a wayward American submarine whose commanding officer, Commander Richardson (played by Clark Gable) is using the sub and its crew to exact revenge against a Japanese ship that slew crewmates of his prior command. Commander Richardson is challenged by Lieutenant Colonel Bledsoe (played by Burt Lancaster), which forms the crux of the movie’s tension.

This masterful example of storytelling and directorship from Robert Wise only gets more suspenseful when torpedoes are added to the mix.

United Artists, Run Silent, Run Deep (1958)

Chè (2008)

The rumblings of revolutionary fervor are depicted masterfully in the 2008 epic Chè. As the title suggests, it’s about the life of Che Guevara, the Cuban revolutionary who overthrew Fulgencio Batista’s dictatorship in 1958. The first of a two-part biopic is a fantastic dramatization of the life of Che Guevara, directed by Benicio Del Toro.

IFC, Che (2008 film)

Da 5 Bloods (2020)

Directed by veteran director Spike Lee, Da 5 Bloods tells the story of four young African-American veterans of the Vietnam conflict on a mission to recover the remains of a fallen squad member. The five men hid a gold fortune in the jungles of Vietnam during the conflict. Alongside the remains of their comrade, the four servicemen also hope to bring home the treasure they buried.

The film maintains an anti-combat message throughout and features footage of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King.

Netflix, Da 5 Bloods (2020)

Gallipoli (1981)

Starring a young Mel Gibson, Gallipoli tells the story of two Australian sprinters who sign up for battle during WWI. The pair are first denied entry to the Army in their home state, as they’re too young, but they hop aboard a freight train to Perth, Australia. After, they sneak aboard a cargo vessel that’s headed for Cairo, Egypt. Following the completion of their training, they’re used on the battlefields of Gallipoli in Turkey as messengers, due to their speed.

This epic film makes no bones about the reality of combat. It is a brutal retelling of one of the bloodiest battles of WWI, in which approximately 8,000 ANZAC servicemen lost their lives.

Paramount, Gallipoli (1981)

1917 (2019)

In a piece of cinematic history and genius, this film was shot across France in 2019, but the camera never stops moving and the film is never set in the same place twice. This adds to the incredible story of two British troopers, Lance Corporal Schofield and Lance Corporal Blake, who are sent across enemy lines to halt an attack by British forces against a German line.

The action eventually saves some 1,600 lives, but the single-shot nature of the film is astonishingly well done and tells the story with unparalleled drama.

DreamWorks, 1917 (2019)

The Battle Of Algiers (1966)

The Battle of Algiers tells the gruesome story of anti-revolutionary efforts by the French to quell a revolution by a group of Algerians during the occupation of Algeria by French forces in the late 1950s. It depicts the methods used by the French to quash this revolution, including excruciating physical torment, deliberate targeting of civilians with bombings, and much more. Directed by Gillo Pontecurvo, there aren’t many films that so ruthlessly depict counter-revolutionary efforts by an occupying force.

Monogram, The Battle of Algiers (1966)

Platoon (1986)

Platoon is one of the classic combat movies of the 1980s. One of Charlie Sheen’s major breakout roles came in the form of this classic tale of a young university student who quits his studies to fight in Vietnam. However, his idealism of battle and conflict quickly fades when he arrives in Vietnam, replaced instead by skepticism of the cause and sympathy for the civilians caught in the middle.

Orion, Platoon (1986)

The Dirty Dozen (1967)

This classic 1960s flick tells the tale of a dozen Army convicts, brought together by the Office of Strategic Services (an intelligence unit in the United States armed services during WWII) to fight dangerous missions behind enemy lines in the build-up to D-Day. While the film begins jovially and light-heartedly, things quickly take a serious turn when the bullets start flying.

MGM, The Dirty Dozen (1967)

Flags Of Our Fathers (2006)

The first in a two-part epic directed by Clint Eastwood, Flags of Our Fathers tells the story of American servicemen battling for territory on the Japanese-controlled island of Iwo Jima. It tells the American side of the battle for Iwo Jima and pays homage to a photograph of a group of American troopers hoisting the American flag atop Mount Suribachi, an image that became a rallying cry for the battle-weary American public.

DreamWorks, Flags of Our Fathers (2006)

Letters From Iwo Jima (2006)

This masterful sequel tells the Japanese side of the Battle of Iwo Jima, produced and directed by Clint Eastwood, but with an all-Japanese cast and only available in the Japanese language with American subtitles. Letters from Iwo Jima tells the story of several Japanese troopers, captured from missives of those that were there during the battle. The cinematic artistry to tell such a story from both sides of the conflict only reinforces the idea that nobody wins a war.

DreamWorks, Letters from Iwo Jima (2006)

Full Metal Jacket (1987)

Full Metal Jacket by Stanley Kubrick goes the whole nine yards, following J.T. “Joker” Davis throughout his training as a US Marine, to serving on the battlefields of Vietnam. This epic film tells the story of friendship, camaraderie, accomplishment, and the horrors of battle. Full Metal Jacket is something of an iconic 1980s combat film.

Warner Bros., Full Metal Jacket (1987)

The Great Escape (1963)

Of course, Steve McQueen and The Great Escape were going to make this list. Under the directorship of John Sturges, The Great Escape is the epic that inspired other WWII movies of similar plot lines. It depicted a German POW camp filled with Allied servicemen determined to make a break for it. The film details their planning and execution of a daring escape with an epic scene of Steve McQueen making a run for it on a motorbike.

If you haven’t seen it yet, The Great Escape is a must-see.

United Artists, The Great Escape (1963)

The Bridge On The River Kwai (1957)

The Bridge on the River Kwai depicts the construction of a bridge by British POWs, as ordered by their Japanese captors. Although the prisoners are intent on secretly sabotaging the bridge, their British commanding officer takes umbrage with their lack of enthusiasm for the project and sees it more as a source of national pride, ordering them to complete the bridge without delay.

The film is based on the novel The Bridge Over the River Kwai, written in 1952 by Pierre Boule.

Columbia, The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)

Inglorious Basterds (2009)

One of Brad Pitt’s few combat movies, Inglorious Basterds from 2009 tells the tale of an American commander, with, well, a hatred for his German opponents. Lieutenant Aldo Raine (Brad Pitt) assembles a team of Jewish fighters to take revenge on their German opponents by taking their scalps.

Steeped in comedic one-liners and also scenes of rather explicit brutality, Inglorious Basterds is a Tarantino film with all of the hallmarks you’d expect from the director.

Universal, Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Das Boot (1981)

Translated to “The Boat”, Das Boot is an epic combat film that tells the story of a German submarine in the Atlantic Ocean and details the trials and tribulations faced by a German U-boat commander and his crew during that part of WWII. Written in German with English subtitles, Das Boot is often seen as being one of the best films to depict the “other side” of WWII.

Bavaria, Das Boot (1981)

Dunkirk (2017)

Set in 1940, following the German invasion of France, Dunkirk tells the story of how British and French forces evacuated from the beaches of Dunkirk using naval vessels and ordinary sailing boats, given by the British civilians so the Royal Navy could aid in the evacuation. This extraordinary retelling of the events of that day features a star-studded cast including Harry Styles, Tom Hardy, Kenneth Brannagh, and Cillian Murphy.

Warner Bros., Dunkirk (2017)

The Hurt Locker (2008)

One of the first films about explosive ordinance disposal technicians, The Hurt Locker was also a breakout film for Jeremy Renner, who plays the main character, Sergeant J.T. Stanborn, an explosive ordinance disposal technician assigned to a new squadron in Iraq. This film is painstakingly anxious at times and portrays several incredibly tense situations involving explosive ordinance disposal. The Hurt Locker also explores the dynamics in squadrons and is thematic of the general futility of armed conflict.

Summit, The Hurt Locker (2008)

Apocalypse Now (1979)

Journey into the jungle with Apocalypse Now. Martin Sheen stars as Captain Willard, a special forces soldier tasked with eliminating a former United States Army soldier, Colonel Kurtz, who has gone rogue and rules over a small camp like a mad king. While set against the backdrop of the Vietnam conflict, the film explores battle and human conflict as though it is an integral part of who we are as people.

United Artists, Apocalypse Now (1979)

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Perhaps one of the most infamous and popular combat movies of all time, Saving Private Ryan was inspired by the true story of an American soldier, Frederick Niland, who was sent home after all of his brothers perished in combat during WWII. Saving Private Ryan stars Tom Hanks as Captain Miller, Matt Damon as Private Ryan, and Tom Sizemore as Mike Horvath. It’s also an early appearance on the big screen for Vin Diesel, who plays Private Caparzo.

Captain Miller takes his men behind enemy lines in Normandy, France, to locate and extract Private James Ryan. They meet heavy resistance along the way (as one might expect) but eventually locate and extract Private Ryan. The film is about sacrifices, trials and tribulations, and the brutal reality of WWII.

DreamWorks, Saving Private Ryan (1998)

The Thin Red Line (1998)

This one’s an adaptation of James Jones’ 1962 novel, which focuses on the Battle of Guadalcanal during WWII. After absconding from the US Army, Private Witt (played by Jim Caviezel) is discovered by his commanding officer, Sergeant Welsh (played by Sean Penn) and forced to resume training for combat at Guadalcanal. The story explores the Battle of Guadalcanal, a little-told part of the American theater during WWII.

Twentieth Century, The Thin Red Line (1998)

Passchendaele (2008)

Set during the WWI, Passchendaele depicts the Battle of Passchendaele. The film begins with Sergeant Michael Dunne, our main character played by Paul Gross, who is back home in Canada following the Battle of Vimy Ridge and dealing with neural injuries sustained during that battle. There, he meets and falls in love with a nurse, Sarah Mann. Sarah’s eager-to-fight-something brother, David, soon enlists in the Canadian Expeditionary Force and deploys against the family’s wishes.

David Mann and Sergeant. Dunne end up back in conflict, with the Sergeant re-entering combat to look after his lover’s brother. They are deployed to Flanders, Belgium and wind up at the Battle of Passchendaele. The film is a rather heartbreaking tale of the tragedies of conflict, all the while, love perseveres.

Rhombus, Passchendaele (2008)

Hacksaw Ridge (2016)

Hacksaw Ridge tells the true story of Private First Class Desmond Doss, an enlisted soldier who refused to carry a weapon during WWII on religious grounds. Despite being drafted, Doss refused to carry a firearm and was pilloried by his fellow servicemen and his commanding officers for his decision. Nevertheless, he went on to save more 75 lives at the Battle of Okinawa, all without firing a shot.

Doss is played by Andrew Garfield in this heartwarming story about the possibilities of observing peace during a time of conflict.

Summit, Hacksaw Ridge (2016)

All Quiet On The Western Front (2022)

All Quiet on the Western Front tells the story of WWI from the perspective of a German soldier. It is based on the semi-autobiographical novel by German WWI veteran, Erich Remarque, first published in Germany in 1929. It stars Felix Kammerer as Paul Baumer, a young and idealistic German soldier signing up for battle during 1917, spurred on by romantic visions of life in the trenches. However, on the first night of his deployment to the Western Front, a friend is brutally slain. What follows is a reality check for the young soldier about the harsh realities of combat.

Complete with the mischief of young Army men—like taking a goose from a local farm—and the brutality of conflict on full display, All Quiet on the Western won four awards at the British Academy Film Awards and received more than a dozen nominations globally.

Netflix, All Quiet on the Western Front (2022)

Downfall (2004)

This 2004 historical drama tells the story of the last days of Adolf H's reign, as he’s holed up in a bunker in Berlin with the British and Americans on one side and the Soviets on the other. Uniquely, the Fuhrer's real-life secretary, Traudi Junge, narrates the story of the last few days of his life. It captures the manic tirades of a man on the edge, issuing orders that are completely insane in the context of the battles raging across Europe.

Downfall does a fantastic job of imagining what it must have been like to share a room with a man realising his dream and visions of glory are crumbling, and the grasping at straws that must have happened at the time.

Constantin, Downfall (2004)

Operation Valkyrie (2008)

Operation Valkyrie is a dramatization of a real-life WWII plan of the same name. Members of the German High Command planned to assassinate The Fuhrer and implement a continuity-of-government to prevent the downfall of the entire Reich. On July 20th, 1944, that plan (codenamed Operation Valkyrie) was enacted by Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg and his co-conspirators.

In this retelling of the events, Tom Cruise, Kenneth Brannagh, Eddie Izzard, Bill Nighy, and Tom Wilkinson star as the conspirators, with Cruise playing the lead as Colonel von Stauffenberg.

MGM, Valkyrie (2008)

Enemy At The Gates (2001)

Starring Jude Law, Enemy at the Gates tells the story of the Battle of Stalingrad and the role of a Russian sharpshooter, Vasily Zeitsev. Although Zeitsev was a real Russian sharpshooter during the Battle of Stalingrad, the character played by Law is a fictionalized version of the man. Enemy at the Gates shows the German effort to dispatch Zeitsev (as he had been taking out Germans at an astonishing rate) by deploying an instructor of the Wehrmacht marksman school, played by Ed Harris.

The snipers’ battle takes place on the streets of Stalingrad, pitting two experienced marksmen against each other in one of the legendary battles of WWII.

Mandalay, Enemy at the Gates (2001)

We Were Soldiers (2002)

This iconic film stars Mel Gibson and tells the tale of the first major battle of the Vietnam conflict, fought between the United States and the North Vietnamese Army. Gibson plays the role of Colonel Hal Moore, a dedicated, loyal and fierce commander of a battalion of men. Alongside Sam Elliot as Sergeant Major Basil Plumley and Greg Kinnear as Major Bruce Crandall, he and his men successfully take a section of la Drang valley, a key first victory for US forces in Vietnam. The film tells the story of the fierce fighting, sacrifices made by the men that day, and the futility of battle.

Icon, We Were Soldiers (2002)

Darkest Hour (2017)

The title is a reference to Winston Churchill’s speech to Parliament in June of 1940, at the onset of WWII. The film depicts the new Prime Minister’s internal and external battle over whether to negotiate with Germany or to fight on. Gary Oldman, who plays Winston Churchill, does a masterful job of imagining what it must have been like for Churchill to hold his government together while staring down the barrel of the German battle machine.

Universal, Darkest Hour (2017)

Lone Survivor (2013)

Telling the true story of Marcus Luttrell, a lone survivor of a Navy SEAL mission during the conflict in Afghanistan to eliminate a Taliban leader, Lone Survivor draws on Luttrell’s autobiography for source material, depicting the initial engagement with Taliban forces in which all of Luttrell’s comrades are slain. It then moves to Luttrell being spotted by a group of goat herders and though preparing for the end, he is surprised when they take him, care for his wounds, and allow him to heal. And they do all of that while fending off Taliban attempts to capture him.

The “code of Pashtunwali'' is put on full display in the film, with Luttrell befriending his saviors and eventually being rescued by US forces. Marcus Luttrell is played by Mark Wahlberg, with supporting roles by Emile Hirsch, Taylor Kitsch, and Ben Foster.

Universal, Lone Survivor (2013)

American Sniper (2014)

This is as much of a tale about the aftereffects of battle as it is about Chris Kyle, the “American sniper” made famous in Iraq for his fierce dedication to protecting his brothers-in-arms, becoming the deadliest marksman in American history in the process. Set over a broad arc both at home in the US and in Iraq, the film depicts a few of the key battles that Kyle was involved in and the battles he faces back home, adapting to a “normal life”. Bradley Cooper plays Chris Kyle in an unusual but effective casting for a combat film.

Warner Bros., American Sniper (2014)

The Covenant (2023)

The Covenant, directed by Guy Ritchie, tells the story of an Afghan interpreter and an American Green Beret as they fight against the Taliban through Afghanistan. After being injured in an attack on his convoy, Master Sergeant John Kinley (played by Jake Gyllenhaal) is rescued by an Afghan interpreter who risks life, limb, and his family to protect Kinley. The two form an unbreakable bond as they fight against Taliban attacks throughout the film, ending with the pair leaving Afghanistan together.

The film shines a light on the plight of Afghan interpreters during the conflict in Afghanistan and reveals that over 300 interpreters were slain by the Taliban after the American withdrawal from the country.

MGM, Covenant (2023)

Braveheart (1995)

Mel Gibson’s starring in our list frequently, isn’t he? In Braveheart, he plays Scottish hero William Wallace, a revolutionary warrior against English rule in Scotland in the 13th century. Detailing the life of Wallace from his beginnings as a farmer with a family to his end as a fearless warrior, the inspiring epic tells the tale of a time in history that’s largely left behind by Hollywood.

Twentieth Century, Braveheart (1995)

The 40 movies on this list are the best war films ever made, in our humble opinion. While there’s no shortage of movies about armed conflict, choosing just these 40 were difficult and there are doubtless many worthy submissions that didn’t make the cut. How many of these have you seen? Are any in your top 10 list? Let us know in the comments!

Embracing car ownership is more than the thrill of the open road—it also means being your vehicle's caretaker. While some issues require a professional touch, many tasks are well within your DIY grasp. Prepare to dive under the hood as we navigate you through key maintenance tasks. We'll explain why they're important and provide practical how-to steps. So, let's gear up and get hands-on with your four-wheeled companion!

Safety Disclaimer: Before undertaking any do-it-yourself maintenance tasks, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Always work on your vehicle in a well-ventilated area, use the correct tools for the job, and wear appropriate protective gear. If you're unsure about any aspect of a task, consult a professional. Do not attempt tasks that are beyond your skill or comfort level.

1. Checking and Changing Engine Oil

Adobe

What is it: Engine oil lubricates your car's engine, reducing friction and dissipating heat.

Why it's important: Regularly checking and changing your oil ensures your engine runs smoothly and reduces the risk of engine damage due to excessive friction or overheating.

How to do it: Locate the oil dipstick, pull it out, and wipe it clean. Reinsert it fully, pull it out again, and observe the oil level. If it's low, add more oil. To change the oil, you'll need to drain the old oil and replace the oil filter.

2. Checking and Refilling Coolant

Adobe

What is it: Coolant, or antifreeze, is a fluid that absorbs heat from the engine and then dissipates it through the radiator.

Why it's important: Maintaining the correct coolant level helps keep your engine at the optimal temperature, preventing overheating that can cause engine damage.

How to do it: Check the coolant reservoir under your car's hood. If it's low, mix the coolant with water and pour it into the reservoir until it reaches the correct level.

3. Replacing Windshield Wipers

Adobe

What is it: Windshield wipers clear rain, snow, and debris from your windshield.

Why it's important: Worn-out wipers can't effectively clear your windshield, compromising visibility and safety. Regular replacement ensures good visibility.

How to do it: Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield, press the small tab under the wiper where it meets the wiper arm, slide the wiper off, and attach the new wiper.

4. Checking and Replacing Air Filters

Adobe

What is it: The air filter cleans the air that goes into your engine for combustion.

Why it's important: Dirty air filters restrict airflow to the engine, affecting its efficiency and performance. Regular replacement ensures your engine gets clean air and operates optimally.

How to do it: Locate the air filter unit, check the air filter, and if it's clogged with dirt, replace it.

5. Checking Tire Pressure and Tread Depth

State Farm

What is it: Tire pressure and tread depth significantly affect your car's handling and traction.

Why it's important: Improper tire pressure or worn-out tread can affect fuel efficiency, handling, and safety. Regular checks and maintenance ensure optimal performance and safety.

How to do it: Use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire's pressure, and a penny to check tread depth. Inflate or deflate as needed, and replace tires when tread depth is insufficient.

6. Replacing Brake Pads

Adobe

What is it: Brake pads create friction against your brake rotors, slowing down or stopping your car.

Why it's important: Worn-out brake pads compromise your car's braking ability and can damage other brake components, leading to more expensive repairs.

How to do it: You'll need to jack up your car, remove the wheels, remove the brake pads, replace them, and then reassemble everything.

7. Replacing Burned Out Lights

Adobe

What is it: Your car's lights enhance visibility and communicate your actions to other road users.

Why it's important: Burned-out lights reduce visibility and your car's visibility to others, compromising safety. Regular checks and prompt bulb replacement ensure safe driving conditions.

How to do it: Identify the burned-out bulb, then purchase and install a replacement.

8. Replacing the Battery

What is it: The battery powers all the electrical components of your car, including the starter motor.

Why it's important: An aging or failing battery risks leaving you stranded. Regular checks and timely replacement ensure your car is always ready to start.

How to do it: Identify the positive and negative terminals, disconnect the cables, remove the old battery, insert the new one, and reconnect the cables.

By undertaking these tasks, you're not only saving money on potential mechanic bills but also building a comprehensive understanding of your vehicle. The better you know your car, the more equipped you are to spot minor issues before they turn into costly problems. Moreover, each of these tasks increases your vehicle's lifespan and reliability, providing you with a safer, smoother ride. Always remember, your owner's manual or a reliable guide can offer detailed instructions specific to your vehicle model. Enjoy the journey of car ownership, and remember, a well-maintained car is the key to happy and worry-free driving.

The automotive world is full with engineering marvels, and among them, rear-engined cars stand out as a unique breed. Placing the engine at the rear challenges conventional design norms, offering distinct advantages in handling, weight distribution, and overall driving dynamics. Keep reading to join us as we delve into the realm of rear-engined cars, celebrating the best examples that have left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape.

Porsche 911

Porsche

No discussion of rear-engined cars is complete without mentioning the Porsche 911. This legendary sports car has been the benchmark for performance and handling for decades. The car's history dates back to 1963, and it has continuously evolved to stay at the forefront of automotive engineering. With horsepower figures ranging from 370 to a whopping 650 in the Turbo S variant, the 911 offers blistering acceleration and top speeds of up to 211 mph. The precision engineering and rear-engine layout make it an absolute joy to drive. Over the years, this legend has maintained its distinctive design and rear-engine layout, setting the standard for sports cars worldwide.

Chevrolet Corvair

Wikipedia

The Chevrolet Corvair, produced from 1960 to 1969, is a vintage gem in the world of rear-engined cars. Launched as Chevrolet's answer to compact cars, it represented a departure from traditional American automobile design. Its lightweight rear-engine layout provided an engaging driving experience, with engines ranging from 80 to 180 horsepower. While it faced controversy in its early years, notably highlighted by Ralph Nader's "Unsafe at Any Speed" book, it's now appreciated for its unique design. The Corvair demonstrated Chevrolet's willingness to explore innovative concepts, leaving a lasting mark on automotive history. Today, it's a collector's item with a devoted fan base.

Tesla Model S

Tesla

The Tesla Model S, an electric luxury sedan, proves that the rear-engine layout isn't exclusive to traditional sports cars. Tesla, a pioneer in electric vehicles, introduced the Model S in 2012, revolutionizing the automotive industry. With its dual electric motors, it delivers instant torque and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.99 seconds in the Plaid variant. The Model S combines futuristic technology with the convenience of electric power, making it a pioneer in the industry. It has played a pivotal role in shifting perceptions about electric vehicles, showcasing the potential of sustainable transportation without compromising on performance.

Volkswagen Beetle

Volkswagen

The Volkswagen Beetle is an iconic example of a rear-engined car that won the hearts of millions. Introduced in the 1930s as the "people's car" in Germany, the Beetle became a symbol of practicality and personality. Its air-cooled, rear-mounted engine produced modest power but contributed to its unique and recognizable design. Over its long production run, the Beetle underwent various evolutions and adaptations, maintaining its rear-engine layout. It was celebrated for its affordability, reliability, and distinctive appearance. The Beetle's cultural impact transcends generations, with enthusiasts still cherishing its timeless appeal.

RUF CTR Yellowbird

RUF 

The RUF CTR Yellowbird is a speed demon with a rear-engine layout. RUF, a German manufacturer and tuner, transformed the Porsche into a high-performance masterpiece. Introduced in the late 1980s, the Yellowbird earned its name due to its vivid color and exhilarating performance. Its 3.4-liter, twin-turbocharged flat-six engine unleashed 469 horsepower, allowing it to reach a top speed of 211 mph. What truly set it apart was its handling and agility, earning it a reputation as one of the most exhilarating sports cars of its time. The Yellowbird's development and racing heritage cemented its status as an automotive legend.

Lotus Evora

Lotus

The Lotus Evora is a British sports car that beautifully combines the elegance of a rear-engine layout with contemporary styling and performance. Lotus, renowned for its lightweight and agile cars, introduced the Evora in 2009. With up to 416 horsepower from its supercharged V6 engine, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just over four seconds.

The Evora represents a departure from Lotus's traditionally minimalist designs, focusing on enhanced comfort and daily usability while retaining its core principles of precision handling. Lotus has a storied history in motorsport and engineering excellence, and the Evora is a manifestation of that expertise. It's celebrated for its finely tuned chassis, responsive steering, and driver-focused cockpit. The Evora serves as a reminder that the rear-engine layout can be both elegant and thrilling, with a touch of British charm.

Porsche Cayman

Porsche

While Porsche is renowned for its rear-engine layout, the Cayman takes a different approach with a mid-engine configuration. Introduced in 2006, the Cayman adds a new dimension to Porsche's lineup. With horsepower ranging from 300 to 414 in various trims, the Cayman delivers exceptional performance and precise handling, making it a favorite among sports car enthusiasts.

The Cayman's mid-engine design contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing its agility and balance. Over the years, it has evolved, offering a unique blend of spirited driving dynamics and everyday usability. The Cayman has earned praise for its superb steering feel and chassis dynamics, cementing its status as a dynamic sports car in its own right. It proves that the rear-engine layout isn't the only path to Porsche's driving excellence.

Subaru BRZ / Toyota 86

Subaru

The Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 (formerly Scion FR-S) represent a unique collaboration between Subaru and Toyota to create affordable sports cars with rear-engine layouts. Launched in 2012, these lightweight and agile cars feature a 2.4-liter flat-four engine producing 228 horsepower. Their development was rooted in the idea of delivering affordable and engaging rear-wheel-drive sports cars for enthusiasts.

Both the BRZ and 86 prioritize driving pleasure and precision handling. Their rear-engine design, combined with well-tuned suspension setups, ensures a balanced and enjoyable driving experience. These cars have gained a following among enthusiasts for their affordability, sporty character, and the sheer joy they bring to driving. They stand as a testament to the enduring appeal of rear-engine sports cars, even in the realm of budget-friendly options.

Audi R8

Audi

The Audi R8 is a mid-engine supercar that showcases Audi's engineering prowess and commitment to high-performance driving. Introduced in 2006, the R8 has evolved to offer a range of powertrains, with horsepower figures ranging from 562 to 611 in the latest models. It boasts blistering acceleration and a top speed of 205 mph, making it a formidable contender in the supercar segment.

The R8's mid-engine layout, combined with Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system, results in exceptional traction and handling. Audi's attention to detail extends to its design, with the R8 featuring a sleek and aerodynamic body. The R8 serves as a showcase for Audi's technology and performance capabilities, pushing the boundaries of what a mid-engine supercar can achieve. It's a testament to Audi's dedication to engineering excellence and a thrilling driving experience.

Final Thoughts

Subaru

Rear-engined cars continue to captivate enthusiasts with their unique driving dynamics and thrilling performance. From the timeless Porsche to modern electric marvels like the Tesla Model S, these vehicles exemplify the allure of a rear-engine layout. Whether you prefer classic charm or cutting-edge technology, there's a rear-engined car out there to satisfy your craving for an exhilarating driving experience.

You may have heard of Bastille Day, or the Storming of the Bastille. But how much do you really know about the history of the Bastille? What is the Bastille? And why does it still inspire the French, even while evoking a history of violence and bloodshed? 

Why Is Bastille Day Celebrated? 

On July 14 every year, France celebrates Fête nationale française, meaning French National Day (officially called le 14 juillet). "Bastille Day" is the common English name for the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille. A key moment in the French Revolution, July 14 is a celebration of the unity of the French people. 

United Nations Photo, Flickr

So What Happened? 

The Bastille was a military fortress and prison, and it had become a symbol of the power and the tyranny of the French monarchy and aristocracy. On July 14, 1789, French revolutionaries stormed the Bastille as one of the first moments of the French Revolution. One year later the French celebrated the anniversary as a national holiday. 

Jean-Pierre Houël, Wikimedia Commons

What Was The Bastille? 

The Bastille fortress was built starting around 1370, to defend Paris from England during the Hundred Years' War (1337–1453). The Bastille consisted of eight irregularly built towers, with six cachots, or dungeons, built under the towers. It was described as one of the most powerful fortifications of the period, and the most important fortification in late medieval Paris. 

Theodor Josef Hubert Hoffbauer, Wikimedia Commons

Continued Threats To Paris 

During the 15th century, French kings continued to be threatened by outside forces. Because of its strategic position, the Bastille was vital to Paris' defenses. The fortress was occasionally used to hold prisoners—its first prisoner was Hugues Aubriot, the administrator who built the Bastille.  

Rigaud, Wikimedia Commons

The First Prisoner Of The Bastille 

Hugues Aubriot aided Paris' Jewish population, arresting Parisians who harassed them. Because of this and trumped-up charges, including heresy and extortion, Aubriot was sentenced to life imprisonment on bread and water. During rioting over excessive taxation, a mob released Aubriot and he fled the city. 

Bibliothèque nationale de France, Picryl

The Bastille Becomes A State Prison 

By 1417, the Bastille was converted into a state prison, while continuing to also be a royal residence. In 1420, Henry V of England captured Paris and the Bastille was seized. English troops occupied the Bastille for the next 16 years. The English expanded the use of the Bastille as a prison and in 1430, prisoners attempted to seize control of the fortress.  

James William Edmund Doyle, Wikimedia Commons

Louis XI And The Bastille As State Penitentiary 

During the reign of Louis XI, the Bastille was again used as a state prison. However, the Bastille retained the other traditional functions of a royal castle, and was used to accommodate visiting dignitaries, with lavish parties hosted by kings Louis XI and Francis I. 

Pwqn, Wikimedia Commons

Turning The Bastille Into A Military Complex 

In the 16th century, under Charles IX, the Bastille became part of a major military center, surrounded by an armory and facilities to produce cannons and other weapons. In the 1550s, Henry II further expanded the Bastille's defences. 

François Clouet, Wikimedia Commons

Wars Between Protestant And Catholic Factions 

Numerous wars between Protestant and Catholic factions, with support from foreign allies, centered around the Bastille during the second half of the 16th century. Religious and political tensions in Paris initially exploded on May 12, 1588, known as the Day of the Barricades. 

Paul Lehugeur, Wikimedia Commons

Revolt Of Hard-Line Catholics 

Hard-line Catholics revolted against the moderate Henry III. The king fled and the Bastille surrendered to the Duke of Guise, the leader of the Catholic League. Henry III had the duke and his brother murdered later that year. The duke's supporters used the Bastille as a base to mount a raid on the Parliament of Paris, arresting the president and other magistrates, and detaining them in the Bastille. 

Musée Carnavalet, Wikimedia Commons

A Stronghold For The Catholic League 

Henry IV attempted to retake Paris over a period of several years. The area around the Bastille formed the main stronghold for the Catholic League and their foreign allies, including Spanish and Flemish troops. Henry IV entered Paris in 1894, seizing the capital and the arsenal complex around the Bastille. 

Bernard de Montfaucon, Wikimedia Commons

Transformation Into A State Prison 

The Bastille continued to be used as a prison and a royal fortress under both Henry IV and his son, Louis XIII. In 1602, conspirators among the senior French nobility came up with a Spanish-backed plot against Henry IV. Unfortunately for them, the plan was thwarted—and their leader was executed in the courtyard of the Bastille. Cardinal Richelieu, under Louis XIII, began the transformation of the Bastille into a more formal branch of the French state, further increasing its structured use as a state prison. 

Anonymous, 1719, Wikimedia Commons

Another Insurrection  

In 1648, an insurrection broke out in Paris, prompted by high taxes, inflated food prices, and disease. Various factions fought for several years to take control of the city. After the death of Louis XIII, his wife, Anne of Austria, ruled France as regent. Anne ordered the arrest of some of the leaders of the insurrection and violence once again broke out in Paris.  

After Charles Beaubrun, Wikimedia Commons

The Beginning Of The Reign Of Louis XIV 

In the 17th century, Anne of Austria's son, Louis XIV, began his long reign. The area around the Bastille was transformed in his reign, as Paris grew beyond the boundaries originally protected by the Bastille. Louis XIV made extensive use of the Bastille as a prison, with 2,320 people being detained there during his reign.  

Unknown Author, Wikimedia Commons

Louis XIV And The Absolute Power Of The King 

Louis used the Bastille to hold not just rebels or plotters but also those who had irritated him in some way, marking his reign as that of absolute monarch. Louis personally decided who should be imprisoned at the Bastille. Detention in the Bastille was typically ordered for an indefinite period and there was considerable secrecy over who had been detained and why. 

Hyacinthe Rigaud, Wikimedia Commons

The Man In The Iron Mask 

Perhaps the most famous prisoner during the reign of Louis XIV was the so-called Man in the Iron Mask. He was an unidentified prisoner of state and held for 34 years. When he perished at the Bastille on November 19, 1703, his death certificate bore the pseudonym "Marchioly". 

Alphonse de Neuville, Wikimedia Commons

A Prison For Common Criminals 

The role of the Bastille as a prison changed considerably during the reigns of Louis XV and Louis XVI. A shift also took place in the role of the Bastille as a prison primarily for upper-class prisoners, toward a prison for holding socially undesirable individuals of all backgrounds. In particular, it was used to support law enforcement operations, especially those involving censorship.  

Jacques Callot, Wikimedia Commons

A Way To Avoid Public Scandals 

Many prisoners continued to come from the upper classes, particularly in those cases deemed "disorders of the family". These were members of the aristocracy who had disgraced the family reputation or "manifested mental derangement," and the families could apply for individuals to be detained in order to avoid a public scandal. 

Jean-Honoré Fragonard, Wikimedia Commons

The Banning Of Books 

During the 18th century, the Bastille was used by law enforcement to suppress the trade in "illegal and seditious books". In the 1750s, 40% of those sent to the Bastille were arrested for their role in manufacturing or dealing in banned material.  

Houel, Jean, Wikimedia Commons

Being Imprisoned For Publishing Books 

Many of those writers detained under Louis XVI were imprisoned for their role in producing illicit writing. Writers were formally detained not for their more obviously political works, but for libelous remarks or for personal insults against leading members of Parisian society. 

Unknown Author, Wikimedia Commons

A Symbol Of Despotism 

During the 18th century, the Bastille was extensively criticized by French writers as a symbol of despotism, resulting in some reforms. The first major criticism was by Constantin de Renneville, who had been imprisoned in the Bastille for 11 years and published his accounts of the experience in 1715, in his book L'Inquisition françois. 

Constantin de Renneville, Wikimedia Commons

Being Left To Rot 

Renneville presented a dramatic account of his detention, stating that despite being innocent, he had been abused and left to rot in one of the Bastille's dungeons, chained next to a lifeless body. Abbot Jean de Bucquoy, who had escaped from the Bastille 10 years prior, called the Bastille the "hell of the living".  

Unknown Author,  Wikimedia Commons

Prison Reform 

Prison reform became a popular topic for French writers. One writer encouraged Louis XVI to destroy the Bastille, publishing an engraving depicting the King announcing to the prisoners, "May you be free and live!" 

Joseph-Siffred Duplessis, Wikimedia Commons

The Revolutionary Spirit 

By July 1789, revolutionary sentiment was rising in Paris. Members of the mercantile class called for the King to grant a written constitution. Violence between royalist forces and local crowds broke out at Vendôme on July 12. Revolutionary crowds armed themselves by looting royal stores, gunsmiths, and armorers' shops for weapons and gunpowder. 

Internet Archive Book Images , Flickr

The Marquis De Sade 

Tensions surrounding the Bastille had been rising for several weeks. Only seven prisoners remained in the fortress. The Marquis de Sade, perhaps the Bastille's most infamous prisoner at that time, had been transferred to the asylum. Sade had claimed that the authorities planned to slaughter the prisoners in the castle. 

The Granger Collection, Wikimedia Commons

Securing The Bastille 

The Bastille was fortified and its gates locked. The fortress, already unpopular with the revolutionary crowds, was now the only remaining royalist stronghold in central Paris. It was also protecting a recently arrived stock of 250 barrels of valuable gunpowder. The Bastille had only two days' supply of food and no source of water, making a long siege impossible to defend against. 

Hollande, École, Wikimedia Commons

The Revolutionary Forces Arrive 

On July 14, around 900 people arrived at the Bastille. The crowd had gathered to commandeer the gunpowder stocks known to be held in the building . The revolutionary forces wanted both the guns and the gunpowder in the Bastille to be handed over.  

Gauthier or Gouthier, Wikimedia Commons

The King's Forces Begin Firing 

That afternoon, chaos broke out as the crowd stormed the outer courtyard of the Bastille, pushing toward the main gate. Confused firing broke out in the confined space and chaotic fighting began in between the King's forces and the revolutionary crowd. 

Clément Denis, Simon Joseph Alexandre, Wikimedia Commons

The Chaos Continues  

At around 3:30 pm, mutinous royal forces arrived to reinforce the crowd, bringing with them trained infantry officers and several cannons. As the skirmish continued, 83 members of the crowd were slain and another 15 were mortally wounded. 

Unknown Author , Wikimedia Commons

The Storming Of The Bastille 

Attempting to negotiate a surrender, the commander of the Bastille threatened to blow up the fortress. In the midst of this, the Bastille's drawbridge suddenly came down and the revolutionary crowd stormed in. The commander was dragged outside into the streets and killed by the crowd. The valuable powder and guns were seized. 

Roger, L., Wikimedia Commons

A Symbol For The Revolutionary Movement 

Within hours of its capture, the Bastille began to be used as a symbol to give legitimacy to the revolutionary movement in France. Although the crowd had gone to the Bastille searching for gunpowder, the captured prison became a representation of everything the revolutionary forces were fighting against.  

Unknown Author , Wikimedia Commons

Machines Of Doom 

The more despotic the Bastille was portrayed by the pro-revolutionary press, the more necessary and justified the actions of the Revolution became. The Bastille was described by the revolutionary press as a "place of slavery and horror", containing "machines of death", "grim underground dungeons," and "disgusting caves" where prisoners were left to rot for up to 50 years. 

Unknown Author, Wikimedia Commons

The Destruction Of The Bastille 

The revolutionary leaders decided to symbolically start the destruction of the Bastille, after which, a panel of five experts was appointed to manage the demolition of the castle. By November, most of the fortress had been destroyed. 

Claude Cholat, Wikimedia Commons

The Ruins Of The Bastille 

The ruins of the Bastille rapidly became iconic across France. An altar was set up on the site in February 1790, formed out of iron chains and restraints from the prison. Old bones were discovered during the destruction and were thought to be the skeletons of former prisoners. 

Philippe Alès, Wikimedia Commons

Relics Of Freedom 

An industry of memorabilia surrounding the fall of the Bastille began to flourish. Called "relics of freedom", they included a wide range of items. Models of the Bastille, carved from the fortress's stones, were used as gifts—and a way of spreading the revolutionary message—in the French provinces. In 1793, a large revolutionary fountain was built on the former site of the fortress, becoming known as the Place de la Bastille. 

Pierre-Yves Beaudouin, Wikimedia Commons

Napoleon Bonaparte 

The Bastille remained a powerful and evocative symbol for French Republicans throughout the 19th century. In 1799, Napoleon Bonaparte overthrew the French First Republic that emerged from the Revolution and attempted to marginalize the Bastille as a symbol. Napoleon was unhappy with the revolutionary connotations of the Place de la Bastille, and initially considered building his Arc de Triomphe on the site instead.  

Picryl

The Remains Of The Ruins Of The Bastille 

This proved to be unpopular and he instead planned the construction of a huge bronze statue of an imperial elephant. The project was delayed and all that was built was a large plaster version of the bronze statue. It stood on the former site of the Bastille between 1814 and 1846, when the decaying structure was finally removed.  

Jean-Baptiste Lallemand, Wikimedia Commons

An Underground Symbol 

After the restoration of the French monarchy in 1815, the Bastille became an underground symbol for Republicans. The July Revolution in 1830 used images such as the Bastille to legitimize their new regime and in 1833, the former site of the Bastille was used to build the July Column to commemorate the revolution. The short-lived Second Republic was symbolically declared in 1848 on the former revolutionary site. 

Photographed by Commission du Vieux Paris, Wikimedia Commons

The 20th Century 

The Bastille lost its prominence as a symbol by the 20th century. Nonetheless, the Place de la Bastille continued to be the traditional location for left wing rallies, particularly in the 1930s. The symbol of the Bastille was widely evoked by the French Resistance during WWII and until the 1950s, Bastille Day remained the single most significant French national holiday—and it’s still one of the most popular celebrations today.  

Mbzt, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Timeless and unmistakable, the significance of the sword spans centuries, from ancient samurai to battlefield bravehearts and fast-footed fencing masters. As an object, it has transcended its simple form, becoming a cultural artifact. And yet, a sword is only as capable as the one who wields it. With a sword in their grasp, the men and women below achieved greatness. Read on to find out who made the cut. 

Minamoto No Yoshitsune

Considered one of the most well-known and accomplished samurai in the history of Japan, Minamoto no Yoshitsune commanded the Minamoto clan and accomplished victory in several significant battles. After suffering a fatal betrayal at the hands of a son of a trusted ally, Minamoto is celebrated as a tragic hero.  

Collection of Chusonji Temple, Wikimedia Commons

Fiore Dei Liberi

Author of one of the earliest surviving fencing manuals, Fiore Dei Liberi studied under a number of masters in the Italian and German regions of the Holy Roman Empire. Serving as a knight, magistrate, and peace officer, Fiore Dei Liberi emerged victorious from duels with accomplished fencing masters.  

J. Paul Getty Museum, Wikimedia Commons

Kamiizumi Nobutsuna

Regarded as a major figure in the development of Japanese swordsmanship (kenjutsu), Kamiizumi Nobutsuna was a samurai during the Sengoku period and a pioneer of the Shinkage-ryū school of combat. 

Samurai Bushido Society, Wikimedia Commons

Donald McBane

Arguably the most famous swordsman from Scotland, Donald McBane participated in the Battle of Mulray, which was fought between the MacDonald and Mackintosh clans. After benefitting from instruction in fencing, McBane opened his own school of swordsmanship in Limerick. McBane dueled well into his 60s before retiring.  

Donald McBane, Wikimedia Commons

Tsukahara Bokuden

Championed by Bruce Lee and described as a “sword saint” in his native Japan, Tsukahara Bokuden introduced the Kashima style of sword fighting. In a legend, Bokuden was challenged by a ruffian who questioned his sword fighting style. Bokuden advised the ruffian that he subscribed to the “style of no sword”. After convincing the ruffian to board a boat to a nearby island, Bokuden left the ruffian stranded on the island, thus defeating his opponent by fighting without fighting. 

Yoshitoshi, Wikimedia Commons

Johannes Liechtenauer

Active during the second half of the 14th century, Johannes Liechtenauer was a German fencing master who traveled extensively to hone his skills. In addition to providing students with instruction on fencing, Liechtenauer also pioneered teachings in armored dueling and fighting on horseback.    

Unknown Author, Wikimedia Commons

Joseph Bologne

Known as the Chevalier de Saint-Georges, Joseph Bologne excelled in several artistic and athletic disciplines. Accounts from his fencing academy suggest that Bologne was already defeating some of the best swordsmen at the age of 15. Bologne was still a member of the academy when he defeated fencing master Alexandre Picard, in a high-profile match. 

Mather Brown, Wikimedia Commons

Itō Ittōsai Kagehisa

Known as the innovator of the “one sword” or “one stroke” sword fighting school, Japanese swordsman Itō Ittōsai Kagehisa is known to have fought 33 duels and emerged undefeated. His singular technique, known as Musōken, involved anticipating the movements of an opponent and striking without thinking.  

Unknown author, Wikimedia Commons

El Cid

Based on his heroic achievements as a knight, Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar earned the title of El Cid, which translates loosely as “the Lord” or “the Master”. As a swordsman, Diaz de Vivar has become the most celebrated national hero of Spain, with his accomplishments on the battlefield elegized in the epic poem El Cantor de mio Cid.  

Marcos Hiráldez Acosta, Wikimedia Commons

Sasaki Kojiro

As a Japanese swordsman, Sasaki Kojiro is  credited with founding the Ganryū or “Large Rock style” of sword fighting. Kojiro is best known for his famous duel with Miyamoto Musashi in 1612. Although Kojiro perished in the duel, Miyamoto proclaimed afterwards that Kojoro was the strongest opponent he had ever faced. 

Utagawa Kuniyoshi, Wikimedia Commons

Miyamoto Musashi

Known for his distinct double-bladed or two-sword technique, Miyamoto Musashi founded the school of Hyōhō Niten Ichi-ryū, which translates roughly as “the school of the strategy of two heavens as one”. Undefeated over the course of 62 duels, Musashi is among the few Japanese swordsmen to earn the title of Kensei, meaning “sword saint”.  

Kumamoto Prefectural Museum of Art, Wikimedia Commons

Yagyū Hyōgonosuke

As a peer of Miyamoto Musashi, Yagyū Hyōgonosuke founded a mainline of the Yagyū Shinkage-ryū style of swordsmanship. According to legend, Musashi encountered Hyōgonosuke while staying in Nagoya. The master recognized Hyōgonosuke’s skill just by observing the way he carried himself. Instead of engaging in combat, it is told that the two swordsmen chatted like old friends. 

Utagawa, Kuniyoshi, Wikimedia Commons

Achille Marozzo

Considered one of the most influential teachers of the Dardi tradition of fencing, Achille Marozzo authored a key text on the practice. Translated loosely from Italian, the title is The New Text on the Art of Arms. Marozzo’s work is still studied by historical fencing groups in various countries. 

Achille Marozzo, Wikimedia Commons

Saladin

As a key figure in the Third Crusade, Salah ad-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub, widely known as Saladin, displayed excellent swordsmanship on the battlefield. For his many successes in combat, Saladin swiftly ascended the ranks of the Fatimid Caliphate and served a vizier (high official). He later founded the Ayyubid dynasty. 

Cristofano dell'Altissimo, Wikimedia Commons

Alexander The Great

King Alexander III of Macedon is widely known as Alexander the Great due in part to his unparalleled swordsmanship. Though he only lived a mere 32 years, Alexander earned the legacy of a classical hero. As a commander, his tactics and conquests continue to inform scholars of conflict. 

Unknown author, Wikimedia Commons

Jeanne D’Arc

Driven by visions of archangels, Jeanne d’Arc— known worldwide as Joan of Arc— was destined to save France from English domination. She wielded a sword named Sword of St. Catherine, and it was engraved with five crosses on the blade. For her courageous efforts and her proficiency with a sword, d’Arc, living only to the age of 19, was honored as the patron saint of France.    

John Everett Millais, Wikimedia Commons

Genghis Khan

Founder of the Mongol empire, Genghis Khan employed his swordsmanship to conquer major areas in China and Central Asia. Deified in Mongolia, Khan’s legacy is conflicted by tales of tyranny and brutalism, but also accounts of his kindness toward allies. 

National Palace Museum, Wikimedia Commons

William Wallace

Misrepresented in the motion picture Braveheart, William Wallace served as a Scottish knight and key figure in the battles of Scottish Independence. Despite being grossly outnumbered, Wallace—along with Andrew Moray—commanded a small army to victory in the Battle of Stirling Bridge. He is widely depicted in artworks with a sword firmly in his grasp. 

Stevens Coolidge Place Collection, Picryl

Andrew Moray 

Merging his army with that of Wiliam Wallace, Andrew Moray served heroically— sword in hand—during the Battle of Stirling Bridge. While the pair of Scotsman gained victory in the battle, Moray suffered severe wounds from which he would not survive. 

Roger Wollstadt, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Edoardo Mangiarotti

The most decorated athlete in the sport of fencing, Italian master Edoardo Mangiarotti won 39 Olympic titles and World Championships. For his distinguished performance with a sword, the International Olympic Committee bestowed Mangiarotti with a Platinum Wreath.  

leolimpiadiditalia, Wikimedia Commons

Aladár Gerevich

A close rival of Mangiarotti, Aladár Gerevich won no less than seven gold medals over the course of six Olympic games. What is possibly more incredible is that there was a gap of 28 years between Gerevich’s first gold medal and his last. In 1960, when Gerevich was advised by the Olympic Committee that he was too old to compete, he challenged an entire fencing team and proceeded to defeat each member. 

Unknown Author, Wikimedia Commons

Valentina Vezzali

Italy produced another fine fencing champion in Valentina Vezzali, winner of six gold medals in the sword-sport. Vezzali also won 16 gold medals in the World Fencing Championships. After her fencing career, Vezzali served as a politician in the Italian Parliament, where her fencing strategy, we can assume, served her well.

Marie-Lan Nguyen, Wikimedia Commons

Tokugawa Ieyasu

As one of the the three “Great Unifiers,” Tokugawa Ieyasu was the first shogun of Japan’s Tokugawa shogunate. With his sword, Ieyasu fought in a multitude of battles and developed a code of conduct for samurais known as the bakuhan system.  

Kanō Tan'yū, Wikimedia Commons

Oda Nobunaga

As the first of the three “Great Unifiers” of Japan, Oda Nobunaga led the extremely powerful Oda clan. Ruling by the sword, Nobunaga applied innovative tactics on the battlefield and within the civil government.

Kanō Sōshū, Wikimedia Commons

Honda Tadakatsu

Serving as samurai under Tokugawa Ieyasu, the esteemed swordsman Honda Tadakatsu participated in no less than 57 campaigns and emerged unscathed from each one. Tadakatsu’s katana sword has become a national treasure of Japan. 

Collection of Ryougenji, Wikimedia Commons

Takeda Shingen

Head of the Takeda clan, Takeda Shingen was widely known for his exceptional skills in battle. Using his sword, Shingen defeated rivals and conquered regions. Shingen’s legacy was so powerful, it is purported that one of his greatest rivals wept upon learning of his passing.

Tohaku Hasegawa, Wikimedia Commons

Rudolf Kárpáti

A master of many disciplines, Rudolf Kárpáti won a total of six gold medals over the course of four Olympic Games. In addition to his skills with the sword, Kárpáti was an officer in the Hungarian Army and an exceptional violinist.

Unknown author, Wikimedia Commons

Pál Kovács

As Olympic teammate of Rudolf Kárpáti, Hungarian fencer Pál Kovács played a key role in the success of his Sabre fencing team. As an individual athlete, Kovács won medals in two separate Olympic games.

Unknown Author, Wikimedia Commons

Nedo Nadi

Winner of the most gold medals for fencing during a single iteration of the Olympic Games, Nedo Nadi was credited as one of the greatest fencers of the Italian tradition. After his fencing career, Nadi served as an exceptional coach in the sword-sport.

Agence de presse Meurisse, Wikimedia Commons   

Date Masamune

Known for his iconic missing eye, Date Masamune earned the nickname “One-Eyed Dragon of Oshu”. For his fierceness with a sword on the battlefield, the legacy and character of Masamune has inspired a number of Japanese period dramas. 

Tosa Mitsusada, Wikimedia Commons

William Marshall

As a knight during High Medieval England, William Marshall loyally served five English kings. For his outstanding work with a sword, Marshall was deemed “the best knight that ever lived” by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

-JvL-, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Hector Roy Maclean 

Known for his courageous exploits, Hector Roy Maclean served as the 6th Chief of Clan Maclean. Maclean was so well-known for his swordsmanship that many knights sought him out to engage in duels.

James Grant, Wikimedia Commons  

If you’ve got an old smartphone, it’s tempting to get rid of it or stick it in some dark corner of your house to collect dust. But that old phone might not be worthless yet—in fact, it might even save you some money. 

Here are 10 ways to repurpose your old phone and save a few bucks in the process.

1. A Wireless Webcam

Nowadays, lots of meetings are conducted remotely with webcams. If you find yourself without a webcam or stuck with a low-quality laptop camera, don't worry—just use your old smartphone. Its built-in camera is better than most budget webcams, so you can save money without sacrificing image quality.

Blazej Lyjak, Shutter stock

Webcam Apps

Turning your phone into a webcam is easy with free apps. Just download a webcam app on both your old mobile and your computer, then connect them together. Once they're linked, you're all set to go. If you want to secure your phone to your monitor, you can get a magnetic mount or tripod, both of which are cheaper than a new webcam.

George Milton, Pexels

App Capabilities 

With most webcam apps supporting both 720p and 1080p video, you'll have clear visuals for your meetings. 4K support is limited, but unless you're doing high-end tasks like streaming or sales calls, this probably won't be an issue. So, why not save yourself some cash and turn your old smartphone into a webcam?

Liza Summer, Pexels

2. A Universal Smart Remote

In every home, there's a notorious spot where remote controls vanish without a trace. Instead of replacing lost remotes, consider repurposing your old mobile phone as a remote control.

RossHelen, Shutterstock

Make Space

Before diving in, clear space on your old phone for media apps and ensure you have your favorites like Netflix and Disney+ ready to go. Once you've prepped your phone, install your preferred streaming apps and any mobile versions of device-specific apps like Apple TV or Roku.

Natee Meepian, Shutterstock

Limitless Control 

It'll take a bit of time to download and connect everything, but once linked, you'll have seamless control over your entertainment. Plus, with apps like Google Home or Alexa, you can extend remote control to other smart devices throughout your home, making life a whole lot simpler.

sdx15, Shutterstock

3. A Daschcam

Installing a dashcam is a great way of documenting your drives and collecting evidence in the case of accidents. But the cost of a dashcam can be something that makes people pass on this valuable tool. Luckily, if you have an old smartphone lying around, you can turn it into a budget-friendly alternative.

Elizaveta Galitckaia, Shutterstock

A World Of Capabilities 

Most dashcam apps can give you features like loop recording and collision detection, providing a solid substitute for a traditional dashcam. Some even have advanced features like 4K video recording and cloud storage.

M2020, Shutterstock

Watch Your Battery

Keep in mind that some free dashcam apps might display ads and drain your phone's battery, especially if it's older. To get around the battery drain, just get long charging cable that can plug into your car's power outlet. 

Patrick Daxenbichler, Shutterstock

4. An Alarm Clock

Whether it's work, school, or appointments, oversleeping isn't an option. If you need an extra alarm clock, just use your old phone.

Miriam Alonso, Pexels

Personalize Your Alarm

Setting up your old phone as an alarm clock is easy. You can either use its built-in clock or download an alarm clock app for customization. Heavy sleepers can get an app that makes them do challenges to silence the alarm, while those preferring a gentler wake-up can opt for apps with soothing nature sounds.

Miriam Alonso, Pexels

5. An E-Reader

Getting lost in a good book is a fun escape, and an e-reader makes it easy to carry your favorite stories wherever you go. A good e-reader can be pricey, so keep the cash in your wallet and dig out your old smartphone. 

McLittle Stock, Shutterstock

More Options 

Start by decluttering your old phone to make space for e-reader apps like Amazon Kindle or Goodreads. The benefit here is that unlike dedicated e-readers, using your old phone allows flexibility across different platforms, enabling access to e-books from multiple sources.

sdx15, Shutteerstock

Digital Libraries 

Transforming your old smartphone into an e-reader is also a great way to expand your reading options and support your local library. Nowadays, many libraries have apps that give you access to a variety of e-books and audiobooks at no cost.

McLittle Stock, Shutterstock

6. A Security Camera

Home security is a top priority, and using your old smartphone as a security camera is a cost-effective way of keeping an eye on things. With a security camera app, it's easy to set up a live feed. Once you connect both your phones to the app, you can use your new phone to control the feed, while your old phone captures video.   

New Africa, Shutterstock

The More The Merrier

Installing the chosen security app on all devices is the first step to creating your live feed. Positioning your old phone near a power outlet ensures it stays operational without constant charging. And if you have more than one old phone lying around, you can create a more secure setup with multiple live feeds.

Production Perig, Shutterstock

7. An MP3 Player

Remember the days when MP3 players were a separate gadget from your phone? Repurposing your old phone as a dedicated MP3 player not only saves your current phone's battery but also opens up more space for music downloads.

Mihis Alex, Pexels

Reset 

Start fresh by performing a factory reset on your old phone, then equip it with music streaming apps like Spotify or Apple Music. Subscribers can enjoy offline listening and download their favorite albums. Even if you get the free versions of the apps, you'll still have access to plenty of tunes, just with a few ads and functional limitations.

DenPhotos, Shutterstock

More Than Music

When you need a break from music, you can explore the variety of podcasts and audiobooks available on streaming services. Just be aware that some audiobooks may require additional payments or have monthly access limits.

Primakov, Shutterstock

8. A Gaming Device

Mobile gaming has exploded in popularity, offering a wide range of titles from classic throwbacks to modern favorites like Pokémon Go. By making your old phone into a gaming device, you can get access to a huge library of games to entertain you on the go.

Samer Daboul, Pexels

Games Galore 

With a stable Wi-Fi connection, you can explore popular mobile games on platforms like Google Play and Apple Arcade. Clearing out unnecessary apps creates ample storage space for downloading your favorite games.

Pryimak Anastasiia, Shutterstock

Play All Your Favorites 

Take your gaming experience further by using services like Xbox Cloud Gaming, PS Remote Play, and Steam Link to play console and PC games on your old phone. Repurposing your old phone is a fun, cost-effective way of extending your gameplay, especially for young gamers who don't need a brand-new device just yet.

Miguel Lagoa, Shutterstock

9. A Livestream To The World

Whether you're working from home or at the office, your desk view might not always be the most captivating. But why settle for a dull scene when you can turn your old phone into a window to the world?

Parilov, Shutterstock

World-Renowned Views 

Live webcam apps like EarthCam Webcams and EarthCam TV 2 offer access to stunning views from around the globe. They charge a small annual fee, but allow you to enjoy a breathtaking view of Niagara Falls or soak in the energy of Times Square from the comfort of your desk.

Postmodern Studio, Shutterstock

Awesome Budget-Friendly Options

If you prefer not to pay for live webcam access, there are still plenty of free options available. For example, you watch animals at the San Diego Zoo through live cams set up in various enclosures. Just make sure your old phone has a reliable wireless connection to make the most of your virtual window experience.

Bystrov, Shutterstock

10. A Digital Photo Frame

Nowadays, our smartphones double as our primary cameras. But why let those memories gather digital dust when you can showcase them by turning your old smartphone into a digital photo frame?

Antonio Guillem, Shutterstock

Sync Up

Start by making sure your desired photos are on your old phone—you can transfer them manually from your PC or via Bluetooth from your current device. You can also sync your old phone with cloud storage to access your photos.

NicoElNino, Shutterstock

Keep The Family Close

With photo framing apps like Fotoo or Google Photos, you can create albums and set up cool slideshows. In addition to your old smartphone, you can also turn an old tablet into a digital picture frame. It's a great way to add warmth to your workspace or brighten up any dull corner of your home.

dennizn, Shutterstock

Before there was Bridgerton, there was Lady Caroline Lamb. Beautiful and envied in her early society career, Caroline went from belle of the Ton to total outcast in the blink of an eye—all thanks to one of the most disastrous affairs in history. Her deranged fixation on her ex grew into some seriously twisted stunts—but no heartbreak could excuse her most disturbing act.

1. She Had A Disgusting Brush With Death

Lady Caroline was the only daughter of Earl and Countess of Bessborough, so ideally, she should have had a charmed childhood. Unfortunately, it was more like a nightmare.

Caroline had an extremely frail disposition, and almost perished from—disgustingly enough—an illness involving worms. Even more unfortunately, the ordeal had a chilling effect on the young girl.

2. She Developed a Very Bad Habit

Growing up, Caroline spent many wonderful days running around with her royal cousins, but this brief period of innocence came to an abrupt halt. Soon the sickly Caroline, perhaps tired of the painful realities of her ailing life, began taking downers like the opiate laudanum with fierce abandon.

Her parents were so appalled by their daughter's horrifying habit that they hired a special governess to keep an eye on her. Maybe that’s why they rushed her into the next phase of her life.

Picryl

 3. She Grew Into Good Looks

As Caroline entered her teenage years she blossomed into a stunning young woman, who many considered very easy on the eyes. With her enormous family connections and her million-dollar face, no one had any doubt that Caroline would land herself a top notch marriage—as long as they could keep her wild side under wraps, of course.

In 1805, destiny came knocking—but it wasn’t the good kind.

Wikipedia

4. She Had a Monster-in-Law

Shortly before Caroline’s 20th birthday, she married the Honorable William Lamb, an almost equally well-to-do noble with political ambitions. Even better, it was something of a love match, with the pair sharing a mutual crush. But this was no fairy tale.

William’s mother Elizabeth, despite pushing for the advantageous match for her son, actually despised both Caroline and her mother. That’s right, Caroline’s new monster-in-law wasn’t above using the young girl for her own ends…and this was a trend that would only continue.

Wikipedia

5. She Went Through An Unspeakable Loss

At first, William and Caroline’s marriage was as promising as Caroline herself, but when it unraveled, it was utterly devastating. Although Caroline got pregnant very soon after her wedding, the child was stillborn. Barely 20 years old and already mourning the loss of her child, little did she know her life was going to take another turn for the worse.

Wikimedia Commons

6. Her Body Betrayed Her

William and Caroline were dedicated to each other (for now), and they kept trying to have another child. But there was one dark problem. Physically, Caroline wasn’t well-suited for pregnancy and labor, and her body took a long time to recover between bouts.

So by the time she gave birth to a living son, George, in 1807 and then a premature, doomed girl in 1809, her body was ravaged. And this is when it all began to truly fall apart.

Wikipedia

7. Her Son Had Mental Difficulties

Caroline’s young son George had been lucky enough to survive past infancy, but it soon became clear he was severely mentally handicapped. Used to the bustle of family life around her, Caroline went against the grain of the time—which would have seen George packed off to a sanitorium—and continued to care for him at home.

Yet this heartwarming decision had painful consequences.

Picryl

8. Her Marriage Fell Apart

Caroline was still a young woman, but by now she carried the burdens of someone twice her age. With the stresses of her son’s poor health, her body’s difficulty recovering from pregnancy, and her husband’s rising political career, Caroline began to feel alienated from her marriage. Sadly, this is when her horrible in-laws dug the knife in even further.

Wikimedia Commons

9. Her In-Laws Were Cruel

A couple of years of marriage hadn’t endeared Caroline’s mother-in-law Elizabeth to her daughter-in-law one bit. In fact, it got so much worse.

Taking cues from their mother, none of William’s siblings liked Caroline, and sneeringly dubbed her the “little beast”. It was all headed downhill—but no one could have predicted exactly what a catastrophe it would be.

Wikimedia Commons

10. She Met An Infamous Rake

By 1812, Caroline was 26 years old, tired of her marriage, and frustrated with her life. In other words, she was primed to start a scandal, and that’s exactly what she did.

That spring, she met the dashing and infamous poet Lord Byron for the first time at an event. Byron had already made a name for himself seducing women left, right, and center, but when he locked eyes with Caroline, nothing in English society was the same again.

Picryl

11. She Sent Fan Mail

Reportedly, Byron was immediately smitten with Caroline, while she at least feigned indifference, ignoring his advances at first. In fact, it was around then that Caroline claimed she called Byron “mad, bad, and dangerous to know,” a dubious epithet that has stuck with him to this day. But then something shifted. 

Displaying a change of heart, Caroline soon wrote Byron a letter gushing about his writing—and Byron’s response set off a chain reaction.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

12. A Poet Seduced Her

Lord Byron wasn’t one to stand on the sidelines when there was a woman he wanted. Instead of writing her a polite “thank you” letter back, he took it upon himself to visit with Caroline in person.

Once there, he let out his full arsenal of seduction, and it wasn’t long before vulnerable, emotion-starved Caroline gave in. Within days, the affair was in full swing, and the red flags became obvious.

Picryl

13. She Played Mind Games

From the very beginning, Bryon and Lady Caroline loved to play games with each other. Despite the fact that pretty much everyone with eyes knew what was going on between them, they loudly criticized each other in public, all while carrying on their affair and presumably sneaking off whenever they could to have “private” time. Soon, it reached a fever pitch.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

14. Her Lover Gave Her A Pet Name

To say that Lord Byron and Caroline Lamb were into each other would be the understatement of their century. Byron took to calling her “Caro,” a pet name she quickly insisted everyone call her, too. The poet also dubbed her, “the cleverest most agreeable, absurd, amiable, perplexing, dangerous fascinating little being that lives now or ought to have lived 2000 years ago”.

Yes, Byron and Caroline were that annoying couple at the table. It was going to hit an intense climax.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

15. She Was Nearly A Bigamist

Within weeks of first meeting, Byron and Caroline were careening down a very ill-advised path. At one point, Caroline even snuck into Byron’s rooms and begged him to elope with her. Byron, at this point equally obsessed, nearly agreed. Only a more coolheaded friend—who likely reminded him Caroline was already married—stopped him from going through with it.

But there were other, more sinister obstacles in their path.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

16. Her Mother-In-Law Plotted Against Her

In a perverse twist of fate, Lord Byron was very good friends with Caroline’s cruel mother-in-law, Elizabeth Lamb…so if the matriarch didn’t already know about their very public affair through the rumor mill, she certainly found out about it from the horse’s mouth.

Unsurprisingly, Elizabeth loathed the dalliance—and she began plotting Caroline’s demise in earnest.

Wikipedia

17. Her Husband Stood By Her

From the moment she got a whiff of the tryst, Elizabeth began campaigning against Caroline to anyone who would listen—especially to her son. It backfired hard.

Although their marriage was naturally strained, Caroline’s husband refused to drop her entirely. Undeterred, Elizabeth kept on with her crusade. Then again, she did have some ulterior motives.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

18. She Flaunted Her Affair

Oh sure, Elizabeth didn’t like that Caroline was cheating on her son, that much is true. But perhaps the bigger problem for Elizabeth was that Caroline was so flagrant about it. After all, Elizabeth had several affairs of her own back in her day, but she prided herself on being consummately discreet with the powerful men she took to bed.

To be fair, Elizabeth had a point; it was Caroline’s lack of moderation that made the next events that much more disastrous.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

19. She Got Dumped

Byron and Caroline burned hot and fast, and eventually, there simply wasn’t enough tinder. Indeed, Byron tired of her shockingly quickly: By August of 1812, after only half a year together, he broke things off.

With Caroline’s world spinning off its axis, she grasped around for anything to make it make sense. The answers weren’t pretty.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

20. Her Lover Had A Secret

While Caroline was exploring her passions with Byron, her illicit lover was keeping secrets. Although he was having fun with his mistress, he was also deeply in debt—and very much in search of an available rich woman to marry and settle down with. Someone, in other words, who wasn’t Caroline.

Painfully, his breakup was as much a mercenary move as an emotional one…and the hits kept coming.

Picryl

21. She Turned Into A Social Pariah

Caroline wasn’t just heartbroken, she was now also damaged goods in the eyes of society—all while, in case you’re wondering, Byron’s reputation suffered almost no damage at all. With nobles turning their noses at her, Caroline’s husband William did what he could to help and packed her off to Ireland to help her recuperate in peace and quiet.

It was a nice idea. Unfortunately, it went about as badly as it could.

Wikimedia Commons

22. She Couldn’t Let Him Go

Caroline was a lovesick ex-girlfriend, and, like many a lovesick exes before and after her, she made a fatal error in breakup protocol: While in Ireland, she began corresponding with Lord Byron again.

For reasons clear only to unserious men everywhere, Byron responded with his own flurry of messages, getting Caroline’s hopes up that there would be a reconciliation.

Spoiler: There most certainly would not. There would, however, be lots of tears. And, as it happens, blood.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

23. She Got A Rude Awakening

Caroline had spent months away from Byron, only returning to London in 1813. It didn’t matter: She was still just as fixated on him. Though she was skin and bones from the stress of her heartbreak, she nonetheless sought him out in person. His reply stunned and shamed her.

He finally let her know in no uncertain terms that they were through—and then he rubbed salt in the wound.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

24. She Got Replaced

Caroline soon found out that while she had been pining for her (literally) Byronic hero, the poet had been getting busy with other women. Most notably, Byron took up with Jane Harley, the Countess of Oxford, an experienced seductress who was also 14 years older than him.

Unfortunately, Caroline still didn’t quite get the message. The situation deteriorated rapidly.

Wikipedia

25. Her Love Insulted Her

With Caroline back in Byron’s London orbit, their breakup went from messy to downright monstrous. Byron began insulting Caroline any way he knew how, both in public and in private.

In a particularly malicious exchange, he commented to his buddy Elizabeth Lamb—you know, Caroline’s mother-in-law—that he was “haunted by a skeleton,” commenting on Caroline’s weight loss while abroad. But Byron was just getting started.

Picryl

26. She Had A Public Shaming

I’m sure you’re now getting the picture that this was a bad breakup. In truth though, “bad” doesn’t even cover it. The next years of Lady Caroline’s life were agony, with Byron sneering at her any chance he could get, but Caroline still unable to accept that they were never, ever getting back together.

Then one day, at a very important ball to honor the Duke of Wellington, Byron had the audacity to insult Caroline in front of all their peers. Her unhinged response has lived in infamy.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

27. She Became Unhinged

Upon hearing Byron’s insult, Caroline cemented her ruin in the worst way possible. In full view of many of the guests at the soiree, Caroline picked up a nearby glass and tried to cut her own wrists.

Though many assume she did this for its attention-getting effect rather than out of a desire to really harm herself, this didn’t exactly make the situation better. Worst of all, Byron got the last laugh on the matter.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

28. She Was The Scandal Of The Century

In the wake of this scene—which you can bet everyone was talking about the next morning and well into their weekends—any people who had leftover sympathy for Caroline quickly changed their minds. Because, you know, now that it seemed that Caroline was truly mentally ill, society was even more scandalized by her behavior. Ahem, thank you, patriarchy.

Meanwhile, Lord Byron happily added fuel to the fire, quipping about the dramatics: “Lady Caroline performed the dagger scene”. And that was just the first stop on this shame train.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

29. She Stalked Byron

Still listening to her heart rather than any semblance of reason, Caroline now amped up her tactics. She began some light stalking of Byron, dressing up as a pageboy and other incognito getups to see if she could gain entrance to his house without him being aware. When that didn’t work, she resorted to even more desperate and creepy measures.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

30. She Wrote A Creepy Message

After one attempted visit to Byron failed, Caroline took matters into her own hands and wrote “Remember me!” on the inside of one of Byron’s books. When Byron stumbled across the secret scribble, he characteristically did not hold back on eviscerating his ex—and he did it in true poetic fashion.

Byron penned some hate verse in reply, which included the lines “Remember thee! Ay, doubt it not. Thy husband too shall think of thee … Thou false to him, thou fiend to me”. As with everything Byron was telling Caroline these days, it translated to: Leave me the heck alone, married lady. And he had one final insult up his sleeve.

Wikimedia Commons

31. Her Lover Married Someone Else

In 1815, Caroline got utterly heartbreaking news. After dumping her, the still-in-debt Byron had been pursuing the heiress Annabella Milbanke as a bride (all while romancing scores of other side pieces, of course). That year—with grave and accurate misgivings about Byron’s suitability as a husband—Annabella finally said yes, and the pair married.

Byron was now officially off the market. It must have stung immensely for Caroline—and there’s even more to the story.

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32. Her Mother-In-Law Struck Again

Horrifically enough, it was Caroline’s own mother-in-law Elizabeth who once more inserted herself into the situation. As it turns out, Anabella was her niece, and Elizabeth even helped out her bosom buddy Byron by acting as a proxy for his first proposal. It really didn’t seem like it could get worse, even though it did.

But before that, Caroline got to witness karma come for Byron.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

33. She Watched Her Ex Destroy Himself

Barely a year into Byron’s union, his marriage imploded in spectacular fashion. Annabella, now certain that Byron was a horrible husband, left him and took their newborn daughter with her. But oh, there’s more.

Byron’s continued debt, alongside rumors that he had slept with his own half-sister (yes, really), sealed his ruin at long last. After years of getting off scot-free, Byron was now just as much a social pariah as Caroline. Disgraced, he fled to the continent—and then Caroline got her own personal revenge.

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34. She Published A Tell-All Book

In 1816, Caroline published the Gothic novel Glenarvon. Although technically fiction, the novel spilled her secrets. It contained caricatures of some of the biggest movers and shakers in English society, as well as a pitch-perfect rendition of Byron himself.

It might have been cathartic for Caroline, but it turned into yet another disaster.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

35. She Was Blacklisted

Although Caroline had put Glenarvon out anonymously, its portraits were so thinly veiled that everyone knew she was behind it. Enter: Caroline’s final society scandal. One of the powerful women ridiculed in the novel, The Countess of Jersey, took exception to her portrait and had all of Caroline’s memberships to an exclusive chain of clubs revoked.

It was, for all intents and purposes, the last time Caroline was truly “in” society; they all but blacklisted her from then on. And let’s just say Caroline didn’t handle her new free time well.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

36. She Got Her Groove Back

Now, Caroline’s Glenarvon period did actually get off to a good start. Not only was the book a commercial—if not critical—success, around this time she also struck up an affair with none other than the Duke of Wellington, fresh off and practically still bloody from his famous victory at Waterloo.

But even so, Caroline found new ways to make her life all about Lord Byron.

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37. She Upset Her Ex

One of Lady Caroline and Lord Byron’s particularly toxic quirks was that, long after their breakup, they engaged with each other’s literary efforts, writing poetry to, about, and around each other. In one poem, Byron alluded to Glenarvon by writing, “Some play the devil—and then write a novel”.

But Byron had no idea what Caroline was really getting up to in her writing.

Wikipedia

38. She Had A Strange Talent

After months with Byron and then years obsessing over him, Caroline had an eerie and hard-earned talent for mimicking the poet. At one point, she even wrote an extremely accomplished “New Canto” to his most famous work, Don Juan. At other times, though, she used her skills for far less savory means.

In the wake of their breakup, Caroline had once forged a letter purportedly from Byron and then sent it to his publishers, all in a bid to get them to send over a portrait of her ex. Incredibly enough, it worked. But these shallow victories gave way to wrack and ruin.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

39.  She Got Gut-Wrenching News

Lady Caroline Lamb published three novels after Glenarvon, but we nonetheless remember her more for her disastrous affair with Byron—in part because she never truly got over the tryst. In 1824, she received her final blow.

That February, Lord Byron passed suddenly of a violent fever while abroad in Greece. The aftermath was earth-shattering.

Wikipedia

40. She Mourned Him Deeply

Bryon’s end shocked many of his admirers across Europe, but perhaps no one was as affected as Caroline. When she learned about it, she reportedly fell into a fever, and when she happened upon his funeral procession soon after, she collapsed in the street. However, these were just omens of more heartbreaking acts to come.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

41. She Stopped Caring

After this point, Caroline seemed to lose all desire to appear “normal” to society. She would have fits of rage where she would break things, or else people would witness her out in public parks riding her horse like devils were chasing her.

She also stopped caring about her appearance and would often show up to engagements unkempt. Then she made a final, fateful decision.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

42. She Finally Split From Her Husband

Throughout all of this, Caroline’s husband William still stood by her side, always refusing to give in to his family’s wishes that he divorce her and leave her behind for good.

But in 1825—and it seems no coincidence this happened so soon after Bryon’s passing—it was Caroline herself who finally convinced him to grant them a separation. What followed was a complete downward spiral.

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43. She Was Hiding A Dark Side

After separating from William, Caroline took up residence in Brockton Hall. But instead of freeing her, this period only released her inner demons. Since her tween years, she had always had a penchant for laudanum, but over the course of her adult life, it had developed into a serious addiction—one that didn’t marry well with her other penchant for drowning herself in drink.

Within years of her separation, the situation turned dire.

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44. Her Body Failed Her

In 1827, Caroline was only 41 years old, but her health was so frail that she was already under the supervision of a full-time doctor. Her body had finally revolted against her, and she was suffering from dropsy, what we call edema today, which is a build-up of fluid in the tissues.

It was clear to everyone that the end was near—and Caroline had a last request.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

45. She Had One Last Wish

In her last moments, Caroline’s thoughts went to a surprising person: Her own husband William. After the grip that Lord Byron had on her, Caroline finally seemed to shake the dashing poet off in her last years.

Rather than dwelling on her lost love, she asked that William visit her before she passed, saying, “He is the only who person who has never failed me”.

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46. Her End Was Tragic

As he had always done, William came to Caroline, traveling a long and dangerous way to be there with her from his post in Ireland as Chief Secretary. It was a heartwarming reunion—but it was also a death knell.

As if she had been waiting to say goodbye, Caroline passed just a few days after William’s arrival on January 26, 1828. She was only 42.

Wikipedia

47. She Missed Out On Becoming A Viscountess

Lady Caroline Lamb’s life started out with so much promise, but it ended depleted and fatigued. Sadly, the years after her passing only underscored this: When she married William Lamb, they had both expected his father would pass soon, turning him into the Viscount Melbourne and Caroline into a Viscountess.

Instead, this happened a mere six months after Caroline’s death. And then came the second blow.

Wikipedia

48. Her Husband Became The Most Powerful Man In England

William Lamb had always had an immensely promising political career, but Caroline never got to see how far he would climb beyond his title of Viscount. Eventually, almost a decade after saying goodbye to his wife, William Lamb became Prime Minister of England. Imagine what Caroline could have done with that title if she’d tried.

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49. She Was Too Giving

Caroline’s desires and passions were too huge and wild for the 19th century to handle, and she was unfairly maligned for her mental struggles at a time when women were supposed to be graceful, pretty, and not much more. Even so, none of this excused her creepiest act. 

While in the throes of disappointment about Lord Byron pulling away, Caroline got a strange idea in her head. She wanted to give him a present to remember her by. But the “present” she sent was utterly disturbing.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

50. She Sent Her Lover A Shocking Gift

In an effort to declare her love for Lord Bryon while he was abroad, Lady Caroline sent him a clipping of her hair. But this was no customary golden lock from her head. Incredibly enough, she clipped her hair, er, down there, and packaged it up to him with a note professing her love. Perhaps the goriest detail? The clippings were bloody.

Looking back, this might have been the real beginning of the end for Byron and Caroline.

Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), United Artists

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9