Today’s History newsletter  ‘boards’ Noah’s ark to examine which animals were there; discover a little-known quilter whose work inspired generations ... and explore the mysterious origins of ‘abracadabra.’ Plus, microplastics on the brain; the first influencer?

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY BRIDGEMAN IMAGES

Only two animals are mentioned by name in the biblical tale of Noah’s ark—so for centuries artists have filled in the gaps with both fantastic tales and emerging science. Here’s what we know. 

Related: Nat Geo Explorer Joel Sartore has created an ark of his own—with 16,000-plus animals

ALBUM/GRANGER 

ILLUSTRATION  BY BEN SCOTT

Secret no more: Step inside the base that the U.S. hid deep under a Greenland glacier. For decades, even Greenland didn’t know exactly what the U.S. military was doing there.

Related: The hush-hush Cold War ballistic missile base 

Also: The U.S. tried to buy Greenland before—here's what happened

Today’s Soundtrack: Jolene, Beyoncé (feat. Dolly Parton)

Thanks for reading today’s newsletter, edited and curated by David Beard and produced by Amanda Williams-Bryant. Catch our latest Photo of the Week—and sign up here to get our future adventures in your inbox.