Here is an accounting of a few inventions, most of which were invented in the 1800s, that often are overlooked. Find out about how the can opener was invented as well as that clothing staple, the denim jeans.

The official site of the Academie Francaise. Provides information on its role, its history, its members (called "les immortels"), its influence on the French language, and its dictionaries (actual limited online access).

This fascinating site from PBS features seven inventions from the 19th and 20th centuries, along with information about the men and women who created them. Click on one of the small photos to learn more, or scroll down through the...