Tracing Quotations
Roy Zuvers? Stephen Tonnison? Paul Parkhurst? Anonymous? Question for Quote Investigator: Computers are known for performing blazingly fast calculations with excruciating precision. Computers are also known for inescapable bugs. A humorous statement combines these attributes: Computers make very fast, very accurate mistakes. Would you please explore the provenance of this remark? Reply from Quote Investigator: …
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The New York Times? Apocryphal? Question for Quote Investigator A major U.S. newspaper supposedly published an article that claims riding a bicycle inevitably leads to general lunacy and homicidal mania. This assertion sounds satirical. Does this article actually exist? Reply from Quote Investigator: On August 12, 1894 “The New York Times” published an article titled …
Pennsylvanian Merchant? New York Merchant? Portland Merchant? Dear Quote Investigator: Today credit cards are commonplace in the U.S., but in the past many shopkeepers hesitated to extend credit to customers. Occasionally, reluctant businesses displayed a humorous sign: In God We Trust. All Others Pay Cash The phrase “In God We Trust” has a long history. …