Even the most well-intentioned deed can go awry, but not many go off the rails quite as much as the meeting put together by King Henry VI in July 1184. Henry had organized the meeting, called a Hoftag, to help broker peace between two other leaders, Louis III of Thuringia and Archbishop Conrad of Mainz. […]
Grossest Disaster in History? The Erfurt Latrine Disaster Read More »
Military history is filled with tales of elite groups of fighters that stand apart from the regular military. Exceptional fighters who have proven themselves in battle. These groups were called on for special missions. They had reputations for being the best of the best and were known worldwide. They struck fear into their enemies. Examples
Janissaries: The Elite Fighters of the Ottoman Empire Read More »
Are you familiar with Zoroastrianism? Not many may have heard of it before, but it is one of the oldest organized faiths in the world. It is a monotheistic faith—a belief in one person or god—and its principles lie in the dualistic cosmology of good and evil. Zoroastrianism is practiced worldwide. It has roots in
Zoroastrianism: 10 Things You Need To Know Read More »
Paul Reubens, aka “Pee-wee Herman,” was a man of profound contradictions. On one hand, he was the quirky-but-talented creator of the phenomenally successful cult classics, Pee-wee’s Big Adventure and Big Top Pee-wee. Also, the highly successful TV series, Pee-wee’s Playhouse. But on the other hand, he was the infamous celebrity caught masturbating in an adult
Paul Reubens: the Man Behind “Pee-wee Herman” Read More »
These weren’t your everyday German Shepherds. These dogs were actual “soldiers” for the Soviet Union and played a role in the nation’s comeback victory over the Germans in World War II. Anti-tank dogs were first trained in 1930 to carry out missions for the Soviets’ Red Army. Over 16 years, they were used for various
How Soviet Anti-Tank Dogs Impacted World War II Read More »
Saturnalia was an ancient Roman festival honoring the god Saturn. The holiday started with a single day. It eventually stretched to a full week of celebrations. Slaves were given time off of work and gifts were exchanged. Saturnalia was celebrated in December. Many of its traditional practices influenced Christmastime festivities throughout Europe. Saturn Himself Saturn
A Look at the Ancient Roman Festival, Saturnalia Read More »
Charles Joughin was an acclaimed chef. He was best known for being the head baker on the RMS Titanic. Although the extravagance of the voyage is well known, the pastries that Joughin was responsible for creating are not why he is remembered. Instead, Joughin is best known for his remarkable survival in the face of
Charles Joughin: How Whiskey Saved The Head Baker of the Titanic Read More »
Throughout the history of the United States, there have been many landmark court cases. These have paved the way for more equality and an equal shot at the American dream. Brown v. Board of Education, Hernandez v. Texas, and Obergefell v. Hodges have played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of equality. The outcomes
Loving v. Virginia: A Landmark Struggle for Love and Equality Read More »
Every few generations, a sportsperson comes along and transcends the boundaries of their arena to become a bonafide cultural icon. These elite athletes represent the pinnacle of sporting excellence and the hopes and dreams of their legions of adoring fans. They become larger than life. Their legends persist long after their time in the spotlight
Muhammad Ali: The Boxer Who Chose His Name and Charted His Destiny Read More »
Vandalism–the word has an immediate negative connotation in the minds of most, and for good reason. Vandalism can destroy buildings, personal property, and even art. But in ancient times, the word meant something totally different. The Vandals were a Germanic tribe that rose from obscurity to a power large enough to take over ancient Rome
How did the Vandals Get a Bad Reputation in History? Read More »
