When was Prohibition, why was it even a thing – and why did the alcohol-free social experiment fail?
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When was Prohibition, why was it even a thing – and why did the alcohol-free social experiment fail?
When was Prohibition and why didn't it work? Here's the story of how it not only didn't do what it intended, but introduced a cascade of other problems, too.
American cheese singles: What’s in them & the history of ‘processed cheese food product’
The square pieces of smooth, orange, slightly rubbery American cheese used to be the quintessential lunch food, showing up on everything from gooey grilled cheeses to baloney sandwiches. Here's a look at how they came to be!
7-Up history, plus find out the soda’s (terrible) original name
Looking back at 7-Up history, you can see that it's a testament to the lemon-lime soft drink's popularity that the brand could weather so many stumbling blocks - not the least of which included being introduced right before the Great Depression.
Find out who invented the typewriter and how this amazing 1800s invention ‘put women in business’
In the world of modern technology, it's easy to take the humble typewriter completely for granted. But have you ever wondered who invented the typewriter - and how it introduced a new role for women in the workforce?
Lithographed vintage travel posters like those shown here are now sometimes sold at auction for tens of thousands of dollars, but they began as ads for a burgeoning industry.
Old cigarette ads: These 18 TV & movie stars probably had some regrets
Back when smoking was considered not only cool, but somehow healthy, television and movie stars had no compunction about promoting the practice, as evidenced by the 18 celebs featured in these vintage cigarette ads.
Gorgeous 1930s dresses: Hollywood brought the razzle dazzle to this decade of fashion
When we look back on the 1930s, we think of a rather bleak decade that was largely defined by economic struggle and political upheaval. Believe it or not, however, a lot of fashion from this time was the very most in glamour and opulence.
Back when recipes were usually handwritten, vintage recipe boxes were a happy homemaker's most valued possession. Take a peek at some retro recipe holders here!
Vintage & retro-style shoes you can get now
If retro and vintage fashion are your thing, check out these seven fantastic styles of footwear styles from the past! Featuring laces, T-straps and buttons,
Festive Christmas table settings: Ideas for holiday tables with retro style (1900s-1990s)
With a little thought and care - plus the inspiration of these lush holiday table settings of yore - you can create unforgettably nostalgic Christmas table settings that will be remembered for years to come.
We found a treasure trove of letters to Santa dating back to the 1930s (and they are adorable!). Come see what kids were asking for back in the day.
Chocolate chip cookies: Your ultimate guide to the best ever vintage recipes (1930s-2000)
We've collected some of the most well-known, classic versions of this vintage chocolate chip cookies. Which one will you bake today?
How X-ray shoe fittings used to really be a thing years ago
Back in the 1920s, footwear manufacturers and merchants decided that X-ray shoe fittings could bring in lots of customers - people who would be thrilled to let a recent scientific advance help them find the perfect shoe. There was just a little problem...
Old-fashioned Grape Nuts stuffing recipes
Here's a look back at a few of the recipes for Grape Nuts stuffing - yes, made with the crunchy cereal - that have been published in magazines and newspapers over the years!
The Life Savers candy brand has been around for more than a century! Here's a look back at how the little sweets with a hole became so popular, and the many flavors they have made over the years.
Dr Pepper history: How the famous soft drink made a big name for itself
The history of Dr Pepper is surprisingly long - starting back in the 1800s, in fact. Here's how the brand began and grew and grew to become one of the most popular soft drinks in the world.
The history of Tootsie Rolls, once America’s favorite candy (and Tootsie Pops, too)
The Tootsie Roll has a sweet legacy that started way back at the end of the 1800s, and continues to this day. From the early days, the unique chocolaty chewy candy was a huge favorite with kids. Find out more about them here!
Having trouble figuring out the best colors for a dining room? We have some ideas for you, based on some great vintage home decor styles.
The insights and inventions of Dr George Washington Carver - which he gave freely to the world - revolutionized the South, and helped millions out of poverty.
Where did vintage brand names like 7-Up, Formula 409 & WD-40 come from?
Have you ever wondered where products like Formula 409, 7-Up, WD-40 and Preparation H got those famous vintage brand names? Find out here.
How Judy Garland & Deanna Durbin grew up in Hollywood (1939)
How kids grow up in Hollywood: Despite all the glamour, singing actresses Judy Garland & Deanna Durbin lived home lives similar to millions of other teens. Here's what they had to say back in the 1930s!
Contact lenses: The eye-opening invention of ‘eyeball spectacles’
Here's some eye-opening insight into the invention of contact lenses! The contacts were made of glass, and although they worked much like they do today, they were thick, uncomfortable, and even a little dangerous.
See the best vintage gum brands from the 20th century
Can you imagine life before bubble gum? Here's a brief history of vintage gum brands in the US!
Art deco met modern in this bedroom decor from the 1930s
This vintage bedroom decor from the 1930s - which could have been for a guest bedroom or a mother-in-law's suite - had decor elements unique to that decade: an intersection of art deco style and modern decor.
Huge old outdoor public swimming pools like these made summertime cool for everyone 100 years ago
100 years ago, public swimming pools were vital for summer survival After the concept of public baths faded from favor, but before post-war homeowners started
Baby Ruth candy bars & chocolates, the way they used to be years ago
Baby Ruth candy bars - and even Baby Ruth gum - were among the most popular sweets back in the day. Right here, take a look at more than 50 years of the history of the brand.
23 cute & cheerful vintage Mother’s Day cards
Here's a look back at some sweet vintage Mother's Day cards from the 20th century, including a few of the 240 million greeting cards for mom that were sold in just one year, back in 1959.
Vintage chocolate milk brands we’ve loved over the years: Mixes & ready-to drink deliciousness
Chocolate milk has been loved by kids - and, yes, adults! - since at least the 1920s. Here's a look back at some vintage chocolate milk brands that have hit supermarkets over the years - some of which you know, but many more than have been lost to time.
A daring red, black & white color scheme was novel retro art deco living room decor
Here's how this bold and beautiful art deco living room decor was created inside the opulent East 57th Street apartment of 1930s writer Katharine Brush.
Modern architecture & minimalist home decor were hallmarks of this wood-paneled 1940s house
This wood-paneled 1940s house was held up as a fine example of the maturing character of American Modern architecture. It used no line or material that was not necessary.
Note: ClickAmericana.com features authentic historical information, and is not intended to represent current best practices on any topic, particularly with regard to health and safety, but also in terms of outdated cultural depictions and social values. Material on this site is provided for purposes of education, criticism, commentary, cultural reporting, entertainment, historical reference, and news reporting/analysis. Now that you know, have fun looking around!
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Note: ClickAmericana.com features authentic historical information, and is not intended to represent current best practices on any topic, particularly with regard to health and safety. Material on this site is provided for education, criticism, commentary, cultural reporting, entertainment, historical reference, and news reporting/analysis. Now that you know, have fun looking around!
