Money & Tax History

From celebrity body parts to alien abduction, some of the strangest insurance policies ever written — and what they say about risk.

Meet the Renaissance friar credited with inventing double-entry bookkeeping — and the more complicated true story behind the legend.

From salt to seashells to digital currency, a look at the strange and surprising objects humans have used as money throughout history.

Some of the strangest tax deductions ever approved by tax authorities, from cat food to swimming pools — and the surprising logic behind them.

From window taxes to beard taxes, a look at the strangest levies governments have ever imposed — and what they reveal about tax policy.