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Let’s start with a grammar mistake

Image: Shotkitimages

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Even the nation’s most important document wasn’t immune to typos! Article I, Section 10 writes "it’s" instead of "its," mistakenly using the contraction instead of the possessive form.

The funny part? The correct spelling of "its" appears properly in other parts of the document. This suggests it was just a careless transcription mistake rather than a misunderstanding of grammar. Since rewriting historical documents isn’t exactly encouraged, the mistake remains to this day. Even the Founding Fathers weren’t perfect proofreaders, you know?

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A republic, not a democracy

Image: Joshua Sukoff

One of the biggest misconceptions about the Constitution is that it established an American democracy. However, the US was founded as a republic , which differs in that it relies on elected representatives and a system of checks and balances.

When asked whether the Convention had created a monarchy or a republic, Benjamin Franklin famously replied: "A republic, if you can keep it." It was a warning that democracy requires active participation to survive.

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The Constitution’s British roots

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Even though the U.S. had declared independence from Britain, the Constitution still used British spellings. Words like "defence," "labour," and "controul" (instead of defense, labor, and control) can be found in the original text.

These spellings were still common in American English at the time, though they would eventually fade away in favor of more distinctly American versions.

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A comma that shouldn't be there

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Grammar nerds, brace yourselves: the Constitution contains a strange comma mistake. In Article III, Section 1, the sentence reads: "The judicial Power of the United States, shall be vested in one Supreme Court." That comma between "United States" and "shall" separates the subject from the verb, making it grammatically incorrect. While punctuation rules were more flexible back then, this particular comma sticks out as a clear mistake.

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Who signed the Constitution? Not Jefferson or Adams!

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You might assume that Thomas Jefferson and John Adams signed the Constitution, but they didn’t. But that’s not because they didn’t stand by it, it was because they weren’t even in the country at the time!

In 1787, Jefferson was in France serving as the US Minister, while Adams was in Great Britain as the first US. Ambassador. Despite their absence, both men played major roles in shaping the early American government.

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Not everyone signed both the Declaration and the Constitution

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Let’s focus on the ones who did sign both documents. Both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed by key American figures, but only six men signed both .

Those names? Benjamin Franklin, George Clymer, Robert Morris, George Read, James Wilson, and Roger Sherman. While many Founding Fathers contributed to both documents, the actual signatures overlap far less than one might expect. How surprising is this?

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Rhode Island wanted no part in it

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When the Founding Fathers met in Philadelphia in 1787 to draft the Constitution, all 13 states were invited, but Rhode Island refused to show up . The state feared that a strong federal government would overpower them, so they boycotted the entire process.

They even rejected the Constitution’s ratification in 1788 before finally agreeing two years later, by just two votes!

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They "chuse" some interesting spellings

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If you were told our Constitution reads " The House of Representatives shall chuse their Speaker and other Officers; and shall have the sole Power of Impeachment," would you believe it?

You better do because this spelling mistake doesn’t happen only once, it appears multiple times throughout the document.

While it may seem like an error, "chuse" was actually a perfectly acceptable spelling at the time. Language evolves, and by the 19th century, "choose" had won out as the standard spelling.

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The President cannot veto Constitutional Amendments

Image: David Everett Strickler

Presidents may have veto power over laws, but they have zero say when it comes to Constitutional amendments. Congress or a constitutional convention must propose and ratify them without requiring presidential approval.

While presidents can support or lobby for amendments, they can’t introduce or block them directly. Not many people knew this, what about you?

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The Supreme Court’s most famous power isn’t in the Constitution

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Many people assume the Constitution explicitly gives the Supreme Court the power of judicial review, that is, the ability to declare laws unconstitutional. But guess what? It doesn’t.

Actually, judicial review became a standard practice after the famous Marbury v. Madison case in 1803. The Founding Fathers expected the courts to play this role, but the power isn’t actually written in the document itself. Even the Constitution has its unwritten rules!

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California: The Golden State

Image: Maarten van den Heuvel

If this name makes you instantly think about the Gold Rush , let us tell you, you would be going in the right direction because California’s nickname, "The Golden State," gleams with both historical and literal significance.

It harks back to the 1848 Gold Rush, which transformed the state into a bustling hub for fortune seekers. But beyond gold, the nickname also refers to the Golden Gate, the entrance to San Francisco Bay. Additionally, the state’s flower, the golden poppy, is another nod to this iconic moniker. The nickname is more than accurate—wherever you look, California’s golden legacy keeps sparkling.

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Connecticut: The Nutmeg State

Image: Christopher Luther

This may be one small state, but it sure has a lot of nicknames. The official one is "The Constitution State," but you’ve likely also heard of "The Nutmeg State." So why nutmeg for Connecticut? It’s not about farming—it’s a nod to the cleverness of its residents during colonial times.

The tale goes that traders from Connecticut sold carved wooden nutmegs as a joke, showcasing their wit and entrepreneurial spirit. While historians debate the truth of the story, the nickname stuck unofficially.

Want to know the other nicknames? They are "The Blue Law State" and "The Provisions State." So if you had to pick, which one is your favorite?

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Delaware: The Diamond State

Image: Josefina Lacroze

Delaware might be small, but its nickname, "The Diamond State," reflects its value. Similar to Connecticut, it also holds several nicknames. Now, as for the one mentioned here, the legend credits Thomas Jefferson with calling Delaware a "jewel" among states due to its strategic location and resources.

As the first state to ratify the Constitution (which earned it the nickname "The First State"), Delaware is a gem in America’s founding story. Though tiny, it punches above its weight with its rich history, tax-friendly laws, and scenic beauty. It’s proof that great things come in small packages, you know?

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Florida: The Sunshine State

Image: Betty Subrizi

"The Sunshine State" was officially designated as Florida’s nickname in 1970, but doesn’t it feel like it’s been that way forever? If Florida’s nickname doesn’t make you want to pack your beach bag , nothing will!

Known for its abundant sunshine, the state is a top destination for snowbirds and sun-seekers alike. Its warm weather supports everything from sprawling orange groves to its famous beaches. But Florida’s not just about sunny skies—it’s also rich in diverse wildlife and cultural vibrancy. Take a swim at its beaches or explore the Everglades, whatever you choose, this state’s bright reputation is well-earned.

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Hawaii: The Aloha State

Image: Luke McKeown

Speaking of dreamy beaches and lots of sunshine, right? Hawaii’s nickname radiates warmth, just like its famous greeting, "Aloha."

But it’s so much more than that. Aloha embodies love, peace, and a deep connection to nature. It was even defined by the legislature as the Hawaiian philosophy that focuses on the collective experiences people have.

From lush landscapes to welcoming locals, the Aloha spirit defines Hawaii’s identity. Visitors leave with more than tan lines—they carry a piece of Hawaii’s enduring kindness and hospitality. They certainly had us at Aloha !

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Mississippi: The Magnolia State

Image: Annie Spratt

Some states choose to honor legends, some honor their place in history, but Mississippi chose to honor the one thing you can see wherever you look around the state: the Magnolia tree.

With its iconic blooms and Southern charm, "The Magnolia State" perfectly suits Mississippi. Magnolias, known for their large, fragrant flowers, thrive in the state’s warm climate and are its official state tree and flower.

Mississippi took the simple route by choosing the magnolia as a symbol, and it’s even featured in the Mississippi quarter!

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Missouri: The Show-Me State

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Missourians are famously skeptical, and that’s what the "Show-Me State" nickname celebrates. The phrase became popular after Congressman Willard Duncan Vandiver said in 1899, "I’m from Missouri, and you’ve got to show me ." It stuck, and now it symbolizes the state’s no-nonsense, practical attitude.

Beyond the attitude, Missouri shines with its stunning Ozark mountains, historic St. Louis Arch, and rich jazz heritage. Missourians are proof that actions speak much, much louder than words.

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New Hampshire: The Granite State

Image: Spenser Sembrat

Here’s an example of a state that chooses to honor its natural production, much like California with its gold. Granite’s strength and durability make it the perfect symbol for New Hampshire.

Its rugged mountains and quarries helped earn the nickname "The Granite State." The rock also represents the state’s independent spirit and resilient residents.

Granite was a cornerstone, quite literally, of New Hampshire’s economy, as it was used in buildings across the nation. Combine this with breathtaking fall foliage and quaint small towns, and you’ve got a state that is as solid as they come.

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Rhode Island: The Ocean State

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Remember when we mentioned that some of the smaller states above have more than one nickname? Well, despite being the smallest state, Rhode Island boasts three nicknames, but most importantly, over 400 miles of coastline, earning it the title "The Ocean State."

From sailing in Narragansett Bay to fresh seafood delights, the ocean defines its character. The nickname reflects its maritime history, including colonial shipping and today’s vibrant waterfront communities. Rhode Island addresses the elephant in the room: Life is indeed better by the sea!

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Tennessee: The Volunteer State

Image: Susanne Alexander

Our last item in this article honors history in the best way. Tennessee’s nickname dates back to the War of 1812 when its citizens volunteered by the thousands to take an active role, especially during the Battle of New Orleans.

But that wasn’t all. The reputation continued during the Mexican-American War, solidifying its "Volunteer State" nickname. Today, Tennesseans remain proud of their volunteer spirit, as they should! From vibrant Nashville to the serene Smoky Mountains, the state offers its best to everyone who visits. That go-getter attitude is as alive as ever in this hospitable state. Go, Tennessee!

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From trail to theater capital

Image: Christian Lendl

Before Broadway was packed with theaters, it was a Native American trail cutting across Manhattan. The Dutch later called it "the Gentlemen’s Street," and eventually the name "Broadway" stuck because of its unusual width. Did you know that?

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Theater superstitions

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Broadway has its own share of taboos. For example, whistling backstage was once a no-no, since stagehands used whistles as signals. Saying the word "Macbeth" inside a theater is also believed to bring bad luck , so actors usually call it "the Scottish Play." Even in modern times, performers still keep these superstitions alive—just in case.

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Why it’s called the Great White Way

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All those glowing signs around Times Square gave Broadway its sparkling nickname. Starting in the early 1900s, electric lights lit up the blocks between 41st and 53rd Streets, dazzling visitors and creating the famous "Great White Way." Today, it’s still one of the brightest spots in New York City.

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The first Broadway musical

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In 1866, a play called The Black Crook made history. After a fire destroyed another theater, producers combined a ballet and a melodrama , creating a six-hour spectacle of music, dancing, and over-the-top staging. It became a runaway success and is often called the very first Broadway musical.

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What counts as "on Broadway"

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People often think "on Broadway" just means any theater on that street, but it’s actually trickier than that . A show is considered Broadway if the theater has 500 or more seats and meets certain contract rules. Only a handful of actual Broadway theaters are physically on Broadway itself, which can be confusing for first-time visitors.

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Phantom holds the record

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Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera holds the crown as Broadway’s longest-running show. With more than 13,000 performances , it kept audiences hooked for decades. Some orchestra members even played the same music eight times a week for years, perfecting their own unique coping routines. Can you imagine doing that?

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Cats and its mountain of yak hair

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During its long run, Cats became famous for something other than the catchy songs. The costume crew went through over 3,200 pounds of yak hair for wigs alone . It certainly paid off, as the play also became one of the biggest shows in Broadway’s history. Talk about commitment to authenticity.

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The Lion King roars the loudest at the box office

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Since its 1997 debut, The Lion King has been Broadway’s biggest earner , pulling in over a billion dollars in ticket sales. With its breathtaking puppetry and Elton John’s music, it managed to win over both theatergoers and families who grew up with the movie.

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Carrie, the musical failure

Image: Samuel Regan-Asante

Even if we’ve mentioned the greatest on Broadway, we must say not every show becomes a hit . In 1988, Broadway tried to turn Stephen King’s horror novel Carrie into a musical. Let’s just say it didn’t land, and if you’ve read the book, you can imagine why. Critics compared it to disasters of epic scale, and it closed after only five performances. One thing is for sure: Even the flops are big on Broadway.

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Chicago’s real inspirations

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The hit musical Chicago may feel like pure entertainment, but its leading ladies were inspired by real 1920s women accused of murder. Beulah Annan and Belva Gaertner were both acquitted after trials that captured the public’s imagination. Their stories of crime, fame, and scandal became the backbone of the show.

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Why theaters skip row I

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Maybe you’ve never noticed, but many theaters go from row H to J, and that’s not because of superstition. The reason is that the letter I looks too much like the number 1 , which can make ticketing confusing in dimly lit theaters. Some places also skip O or Q for similar reasons. It’s all about keeping the seating simple for audiences. Do you agree with this policy?