Yes.
can the solar eclipse really blind you?
You may be able to look at the total eclipse (in the path of the umbra) without eye protection but anything partial and you'll need special eye protection; it's still the sun and even if part of it is obscured the part that shows is as bright as it is on any day.
Yes. Google the stats and you will discover the number of foolish people who have had minimal damage to total blindness.
ABSOLUTELY!!!
This link explains exactly what happens when you look at the sun---
https://www.vox.com/science-and-health/2017/8/17/16156764/solar-eclipse-2017-safety-glasses
Yes - even welding goggles
Must be a certain level of prote
