1

Nike’s Swoosh was created for $35

Image: Shubham Mittal

Yes, it was. The iconic Nike swoosh was sketched in 1971 by Carolyn Davidson, a graphic design student, for the grand sum of $35. She was helping out a friend—Nike co-founder Phil Knight—who needed a logo for his up-and-coming sneaker brand.

Years later, as Nike soared, the company gave her a thank-you gift: a gold swoosh ring and stock options that ended up being worth millions .

2

Coca-Cola originally contained cocaine

Image: Olena Bohovyk

It sounds like an urban legend, but it’s true: early versions of Coca-Cola did contain coca leaf extract , which naturally included trace amounts of cocaine. When pharmacist John Pemberton invented the drink in 1886, it was marketed as a "brain tonic" and nerve remedy, back when cocaine was legal and considered medicinal. By 1929, the formula was fully decocainized.

3

Neither Ben nor Jerry had any previous business experience

Image: Hybrid Storytellers

Absolutely. Longtime friends Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield took a $5 correspondence course in ice cream making from Penn State and launched their first scoop shop in a converted gas station in Vermont in 1978.

4

Barbie was based on a German adult doll

Image: Peyman Shojaei

True! She sure was. In the 1950s, Ruth Handler spotted a German novelty doll called Bild Lilli while on vacation. Originally sold as a gag gift for men, Lilli was fashionable, curvy, and definitely not meant for children. But Handler saw potential: she reimagined Lilli as a stylish role model for girls, and the first Barbie debuted in 1959.

5

Milton Hershey missed the Titanic voyage

Image: Janne Simoes

He definitely wasn’t on board—lucky for him! But just how close he came to sailing is uncertain. Legend has it that Milton Hershey and his wife were set to sail on the Titanic in 1912, but canceled at the last minute.

The only clue? A check stub showing a $300 deposit to the White Star Line. While there’s no confirmed ticket, the story has stuck.

6

GM hated (and banned) the nickname "Chevy"

Image: Jose Mueses

This one is partially true. In 2010, GM sent a memo urging employees to stop using the nickname "Chevy" in favor of the full "Chevrolet." The public backlash was swift—critics called the move tone-deaf. After all, "Chevy" was beloved, catchy, and woven into Americana.

Within days, the company backpedaled , assuring fans that "Chevy" wasn’t going anywhere. You just can’t mess with a nickname that’s already set in people’s hearts.

7

Apple was named after the forbidden fruit

Image: TheRegisti

Not quite. Steve Jobs chose the name "Apple" in 1976 because it sounded "fun, spirited, and not intimidating." It also gave the young company a strategic edge—it came before "Atari" in the phone book, which mattered in the era of printed directories.

8

Starbucks was named after Moby Dick’s first mate

Image: Athar Khan

Yes, though it was a winding path. The founders were searching for a name that evoked the seafaring tradition of coffee trading. After toying with " Pequod " (Captain Ahab’s ship), they landed on "Starbuck"—the first mate in Moby-Dick and a name with a strong, classic ring to it.

9

Harley-Davidson was going bankrupt, but its logo saved it

Image: Donald Teel

This one is sort of true. In the early 1980s, Harley-Davidson was revving on empty. The rise of Japanese bikes had them cornered—until the brand leaned hard into nostalgia . The bar-and-shield logo, dating back to 1910, became the centerpiece of a marketing push built on American pride, leather jackets, and the unmistakable growl of a V-twin engine.

It worked. The logo became a badge of rebellion, and Harley rebounded.

10

There’s an arrow hidden in FedEx’s logo

Image: Toni Pomar

Once you see it, you can’t unsee it. Look closely between the "E" and the "x" in the FedEx logo—there’s a white arrow formed by the negative space. It’s a perfect symbol for speed, direction, and efficiency.

The logo was designed in 1994 by Lindon Leader, and the hidden arrow was no accident. It’s a subtle nod to the company’s core promise: to get it there fast .

11

"Breakfast at Tiffany’s" launched the brand

Image: Sam Lashbrooke

False! Breakfast at Tiffany’s didn’t launch the brand. Tiffany & Co. had been around since 1837, known for fine jewelry and that iconic blue box. However, after the 1961 film, Audrey Hepburn’s little black dress and wistful gaze into the Tiffany’s shop window helped cement the brand’s image of elegance .

12

Levi’s blue jeans were created for gold miners

Image: Varun Gaba

Absolutely. In 1873, Levi Strauss and tailor Jacob Davis patented durable denim trousers with copper rivets— perfect for miners during the California Gold Rush . The jeans were tough, practical, and ideal for the grueling work conditions out west. In time, what began as rugged workwear became an American icon.

13

Amazon was named after "the biggest river"

Image: Sunrise King

Yes, it was intentional. Jeff Bezos wanted a name that conveyed vastness, exoticism, and would appear early in web listings . "Amazon" fit the bill—although it could have been named "Nile," which is often cited as the world’s longest river. Bezos liked the idea of building the biggest online store in the world, just like the Amazon is the biggest river by volume.

1

Coca-Cola

Image: Artem Beliaikin

The first item in our list is one of the most famous examples. Created in 1886 by a pharmacist named John Pemberton, Coca-Cola was introduced as a nerve tonic meant to calm headaches and boost energy . Early ads called it a "brain elixir," and it was sold from pharmacy counters.

Over time, the drink’s medicinal claims faded as its sweet and refreshing flavor alone won over the public.

2

Grape-Nuts

Image: Mona Bernhardsen

Grape-Nuts arrived in 1897 with big promises about health benefits, including digestion and even appendicitis . Ads insisted on its remarkable healing power.

As science advanced, the claims faded, but the cereal stayed popular. Its crisp texture and hearty flavor became the true selling point once the medicinal hype fell through.

3

Corn flakes

Image: Deepak N

Developed at the Battle Creek Sanitarium, Kellogg’s Corn Flakes were created as a bland, calming food meant to improve digestion and overall health . They were part of a larger awareness movement.

The cereal’s simple crunch won broad appeal, and the medical message softened. It ultimately became the breakfast staple that we know today.

4

Ovaltine

Image: pariwat pannium

Introduced in the early 1900s, Ovaltine claimed to boost strength, improve sleep, and support children’s growth . It was marketed as a malt-based health enhancer.

As breakfast habits changed, Ovaltine’s tine softened, but its cozy appeal endured. It became more of a nostalgic treat than a serious health product.

5

7-Up

Image: Shawn Powar

This one had some backing to its claims. When 7-Up was launched in 1929, it contained lithium citrate, an ingredient used in mood-stabilizing treatments . Early advertising pitched it as a mood-lifting, calming tonic.

As formulas changed and regulations grew, the lithium disappeared, and 7-Up’s identity shifted. It ultimately took its place as a crisp lemon-lime soda with no therapeutic claims.

6

Jell-O

Image: Girl with red hat

When Jell-O debuted, it was pitched as a pure, digestible food for children and invalids . Doctors were encouraged to recommend it as a gentle nourishment.

Its colorful aspect soon eclipsed any medicinal sales angle. Today, Jell-O is tied to family gatherings, not medicinal prescriptions.

7

Fig Newtons

Image: Armando Brenlha

Early ads promoted Fig Newtons as a digestive biscuit thanks to their fruit filling . They were considered easy to assimilate and helpful for regularity issues.

Modern marketing focuses on wholesome snacking rather than health claims. Their soft, chewy texture is their lasting appeal.

8

Marshmallow candy

Image: Ricardo Loaiza

Before becoming modern candy, marshmallow confections were sold in pharmacies as throat soothers made from marshmallow root. They were considered medicinal lozenges.

As recipes changed, and gelatin replaced the plant extract, their purpose shifted entirely. Today, they’re tied to desserts and campfires.

9

Peanut butter

Image: Towfiqu barbhuiya

Health reformers promoted peanut butter as a protein-rich substitute for meat , ideal for the ill or elderly who struggled with chewing. It was part of a therapeutic diet.

Soon, its versatility outshone its medicinal beginnings. Peanut butter became beloved for sandwiches and snacks rather than health regimens.

10

Ginger Ale

Image: Nancy Hughes

Ginger Ale entered the market positioned as a stomach soother . Ginger’s long-standing reputation as a digestive remedy made the drink appealing to pharmacies.

Over time, ginger ale settled into its role as a refreshing mixer and comfort beverage. Its gentle reputation lingers, though it’s no longer pitched as a medical aid.

11

Welch’s Grape Juice

Image: Callum Hill

Welch’s promoted grape juice as a pure, healthful alternative to alcohol . Early ads suggested it supported vitality and overall well-being.

Its wholesome image stuck, though the medical claims did not. Today, Welch’s is associated more with family and wholesome habits than with old health ideals.

1

Supplies

Image: Diego Marín

Pets may not need as many things as humans do, but they still require a few essentials of their own. Depending on your pet, this may include items like a bed , food and water bowls , a litter box , toys , and a kennel or enclosure, if needed. Make sure to have these items ready in advance to help your pet feel comfortable as soon as it arrives.

2

Pet-proofing your home

Image: Prasad Panchakshari

Another important consideration is whether your home is a safe environment for your new pet or if it needs some adjustments. Check if your windows, balconies, or fences require nets to prevent your pet from escaping. Also, examine toilet seats , electrical cords and outlets , houseplants , garbage cans, and fragile items—all these things should be examined from the perspective of a pet owner.

3

No cuddling and playing

Image: Manuel Meza

While puppies and kittens are especially playful and love to fool around, it’s important to let them gain confidence at their own pace . Allow them to sniff around and explore so they can find safe spaces and feel more at ease.

This doesn’t mean you should ignore them, but rather resist the temptation to overwhelm them with attention or surround them with a crowd of family and friends. There will be plenty of time for that, once the pet is relaxed.

4

Vaccinations

Image: Judy Beth Morris

Young puppies and kittens are especially vulnerable to infectious diseases because their immune systems are not yet fully developed. That’s why it’s essential to take your new pets to the veterinarian and ensure they receive their vaccinations on time .

5

Appropriate diet

Image: Bonnie Kittle

Before bringing your new pet home, make sure to consult with a veterinarian regarding the best type of food , and check with the breeder or rescue center to find out what your pet has been eating. If you want to change their diet, do so gradually—otherwise, a sudden change could make them sick.

6

Bathroom training

Image: Andrew S

If your new pet is a dog, consistency and patience are paramount . Establish a regular potty schedule, take your puppy out frequently, and reward them for using the designated area. If your new pet is a cat, place a litter box in a quiet, easily accessible spot and use a clumping litter that’s gentle on their paws.

7

Toys

Image: Amy Chen

Pets can turn almost anything into a toy, but both cats and dogs will especially enjoy age- and size-appropriate pet toys . Be mindful of objects or toys that might seem interesting or edible to your pet, as they could be swallowed and cause serious problems.

8

Collar ID

Image: Jake Oates

If your new pet already has a name, make sure they have a sturdy collar ID with their name and your phone number. Pets can get lost in various situations, and a collar ID is essential to ensure anyone who finds your furry friend can contact you .

9

Consistent rules

Image: Christopher Cassidy

If your new pet is going to live in a house where there are other people besides yourself, make sure the rest of the household knows which behaviors to reward and which to ignore . Consistency in training is crucial to ensure your pet becomes polite and obedient.

10

Older pets

Image: Christian V.

Maybe your new pet isn’t a young pup or kitten. If your new friend is an older dog or cat, try to learn as much as possible about any training or health issues they might have , and be proactive by making a plan to address them. Don’t try to tackle everything at once—gradually introduce new experiences in controlled circumstances.

11

Exercise

Image: Arjan Stalpers

A bored pet can quickly become a mischievous one. A healthy dog should be taken for a walk at least 20–30 minutes a day . Cats naturally love to jump, climb, and scratch. If your cat is indoor-only, provide one or more cat trees to climb and scratching posts . Wand toys or laser pointers are great for stimulating cats and getting them moving.

12

Keep a Routine

Image: Paul Hanaoka

Routines are beneficial for all animals, and pets are no exception . Schedules give them a sense of security and stability. You can promote this by establishing regular feeding times, walk schedules, and play sessions.

Remember what we said about consistency? Regular routines help reduce anxiety and prevent behavioral issues. For puppies, maintaining a routine is especially important as it aids in house training and social development.