I WANT TO SEARCH FOR

A brief history of banned numbers

Some numbers could get you in trouble

A brief history of banned numbers
Anterior Seguinte

© Getty Images

StarsInsider
27/01/2026 08:00 ‧ 18 hours ago | StarsInsider

LIFESTYLE

Belief

When we think of something being banned, we usually imagine books, movies, or songs. But throughout history, even numbers have been outlawed, and sometimes, feared. From ancient Greece to modern-day China, certain numbers have caused confusion, anger, or even panic.

For many people in power, numbers were never just math, but ideas, secrets, or even threats. Yet without these dangerous digits, much of our science and technology might not exist today. In this gallery, we explore the strange story of numbers that were forbidden and fought over, and what that says about our history. Curious? Click to know more.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU