5 pranks from centuries ago that probably shouldn't come back

Today’s April Fools’ Day traditions have devolved into harmless brands inventing silly products and coworkers trying to make you open a can of mixed nuts with a plastic spring snake inside.

It was not always this nice.

Many, many years ago, in a crueler world, hoaxes and pranks that were pulled had a much more sinister nature. Animal cruelty, insane stunts to get attention and explosions seemed to be just part of a pranksters daily to do list a few centuries ago.

After reading a few of these, you might just welcome the businesses that insist on taking a stab at creativity and the occasional office whoopie cushion. Read more…