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BUSINESS
World War I

5 history lessons about products you use every day

OZY editors
OZY
Modern toilet paper has been traced to 1857 and an American inventor named Joseph Gayetty.

They say 'ignorance is bliss.' But that's only true a small percentage of the time. Truth be told, humans are curious by nature, and too often we look past the significance of the tools and products we use every day. Whether it's a refreshing soft drink or a key essential to human hygiene, it's time we took a second to learn more.

The surprising history of toilet paper: Now let's be real for a moment: this has to be one of the most underrated inventions in existence. It's time people know where it came from.

The troubled genius behind nylon: Chances are your day will involve nylon, whether you wear pantyhose or not. But did you know its creator was a patient at a psych ward?

The history of your bra: What began as an accessory is now an absolute essential. But, if not for a metal shortage during World War I, women might still be suffocating in corsets.

The Islamic roots of coffee: Caffeine is arguably the most addicting drug on the planet. In fact, 83 percent of American adults consume this beverage daily. But does anyone know where it came from?

One of Coke's most popular products: Even if you're a casual sipper of soft drinks, there's no way you haven't tasted this delicious treat. Your opinion about the product might change, however, when you hear where it came from.

OZY is a USA TODAY content partner providing general news, commentary and coverage from around the Web. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY.

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