Lesley Kennedy

Denver

Writer and Editor at Freelance

Reporting on fashion, beauty, family, trends and more!

Articles

How Old Is Lemonade?

4 days ago | history.com | Lesley Kennedy

Who first invented lemonade? The earliest version of lemonade—kashkab, made with barley, mint, pepper and citron leaf—traces back to 10th-century Egypt. When lemons arrived to North Africa, they became part of a sweeter drink called qatarmizat—a blend of lemon juice, water and sugar.
How Did ‘Pride’ Come to Represent the LGBTQ+ Movement?

1 week ago | history.com | Lesley Kennedy

How did the word 'Pride' come to represent the LGBTQ+ movement? More than three decades before June's annual celebration became official, the concept of "gay pride" had already emerged within the LGBTQ+ community. As early as 1966, a group had adopted the acronym P.R.I.D.E., which stood for Personal Rights In Defense and Education.
The Surprising History of June

1 week ago | history.com | Lesley Kennedy

June comes with camping trips, fishing adventures and the sweet freedom of school’s end. It’s a month filled with wedding bells, Wimbledon cheers, colorful Pride Month parades and holidays like Father’s Day, Flag Day and Juneteenth. But did you know June’s roots are as rich as its festivities? Here’s a look at its surprising history—from ancient rituals to modern celebrations.
When Was Sunscreen Invented?

2 weeks ago | history.com | Lesley Kennedy

What were the earliest forms of sun protection? Ancient Egyptians used extracts of jasmine, rice bran and lupine to block the sun, while ancient Greeks turned to olive oil, according to Baylor University Medical Center Proceedings. In Japan, women used lead or mercury-based powders around AD 700., and in the 1600s, European women wore velvet face coverings and applied lead-based cosmetics to keep their skin pale.
Why Are So Many Flags Red, White and Blue?

2 weeks ago | history.com | Lesley Kennedy

Why is the American flag red, white and blue? On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress resolved that “the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new Constellation.” June 14 was later recognized as Flag Day in 1949.
What Are the Origins and Meaning of ‘86’?

2 weeks ago | history.com | Lesley Kennedy

The term “86” has woven its way into American slang, typically meaning to get rid of or refuse service. And while its exact origins are murky, its use dates back to the 1930s. What does '86' mean? According to Merriam-Webster, to “86” someone means to throw them out, get rid of them or refuse them service. Although not confirmed, the dictionary notes it’s likely a rhyme for the word “nix.”What are its origins?
Why Was Alcatraz Closed?

3 weeks ago | history.com | Lesley Kennedy

Alcatraz Island, located in San Francisco Bay, is best known as the site of the notorious former federal prison, but its history extends far beyond that. Here are six common questions about the national landmark. What was on the island before it was a prison? Named “Isla de los Alcatraces” by Spanish explorer Lieutenant Juan Manuel de Ayala in 1775, the 22-acre Alcatraz Island was originally a natural habitat for seabirds.
Who are the Vatican's Swiss Guards?

4 weeks ago | history.com | Lesley Kennedy

Five facts about the world's smallest army and their time-honored traditions. Getty ImagesPublished: May 08, 2025Last Updated: May 08, 2025The Swiss Guard, also known as the Pontifical Swiss Guard, is an elite military unit that has guarded the Vatican since the 16th century. According to the Vatican, Pope Julius II founded the Swiss Guard in 1506 to protect the pope and his residence, as many valued the Swiss military and mercenary forces for their loyalty, discipline and combat skills.
Why Do Popes Change Their Names?

1 month ago | history.com | Lesley Kennedy

What is the historical origin of popes changing their names? The tradition of popes changing their names dates back to the first pope, St. Peter—originally Simon—whom Jesus renamed in The Bible. However, it wasn’t until 533 that Mercurius became Pope John II, likely to distance himself from his pagan-associated name and align with the values of John I, his martyred predecessor.
Who Invented Velcro?

1 month ago | history.com | Lesley Kennedy

VELCRO®, that ubiquitous fastening system found in everything from sneakers to spacecraft, not only revolutionized how we connect materials, but is also prime example of biomimicry–the art of imitating nature to solve human problems. And it all started with a dog. The Spark of an IdeaSwiss engineer Georges de Mestral had a penchant for invention early on.