Today in Nerd History | March 15

March 15 marks the birth of the internet as we know it and the debut of a prehistoric animated adventure that became a global phenomenon. Let’s explore some Nerdy Facts about the first internet domain and Ice Age!

Inclusion on this list does not imply that the entry is family friendly, only that it was a nerd culture milestone. Parents should, of course, use discernment.

On March 15, 1985, Symbolics.com became the first-ever registered internet domain, paving the way for the modern web.

Nerdy Facts:

• Still Active Today: Symbolics.com is still online and holds the record for being the longest continuously registered domain in history.
• A Different Internet: In 1985, there were only six registered domains. Today, there are over 350 million active domain names worldwide.
• Before Google, There Was Symbolics: The company behind the domain, Symbolics Inc., specialized in artificial intelligence and computer programming languages.

On March 15, 2002, Ice Age hit theaters, introducing audiences to a quirky prehistoric crew and launching one of the most successful animated franchises of all time.

Nerdy Facts:

• Scrat Wasn’t in the Script: The saber-toothed squirrel Scrat was created as a last-minute addition and became one of the franchise’s most beloved characters.
• Originally a Drama: The movie was initially planned as a more serious adventure before shifting to a comedic, family-friendly tone.
• Record-Breaking Franchise: The Ice Age series became one of the highest-grossing animated franchises, earning over $6 billion across multiple films and spin-offs.

March 15 celebrates the foundation of the internet and the start of an animated classic. Happy Nerd History Day!