Revolutionary Discovery: Scientists Find Gravitational Waves Einstein Predicted

In a discovery that promises to revolutionize astronomy, scientists have made the first direct observations of gravitational waves – bizarre ripples in space-time foreseen by Albert Einstein a century ago. The find is a triumph for Einstein’s celebrated … Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Founded (1909)

The oldest and largest US civil rights organization, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was formed as a result of the 1908 race riots in Springfield, Illinois. In 1939, it organized the Legal Defense and Education Fund as its legal arm, which sued for school desegregation in Brown v. Board of Education. During World War II, it pressed for desegregation of the armed forces, which was achieved in 1948. What activist was an early leader of the NAACP? Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

Amazon & Galapagos Day

Two significant events happened in Ecuadoran history on the same date: the discovery of the Amazon River headwaters by explorer Francisco de Orellana in 1542 and the incorporation of the Galapagos Islands in 1832. The country established the Amazon & Galapagos Day holiday during the presidency of Jaime Roldós Aguilera. In observance of the anniversary, Ecuadoran presidents have visited the Amazon and paid homage to the expedition of 1542. Other activities include traditional dances, the presentation of folklore, and other cultural festivities. Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

Cotton Mather (1663)

Mather was an American Puritan leader remembered for his role in the Salem witch trials. Although his Memorable Providences Relating to Witchcraft and Possessions fed the hysteria that led to the witch hunts, he disapproved of some of the trials and argued against the use of “spectral evidence,” a type of evidence based on dreams. Deeply interested in science, Mather was the first native-born American to be a fellow of the Royal Society and was an early supporter of what medical method? Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

The Hand Cannon

The hand cannon, which dates back to the late 13th century, was the first handheld portable firearm. The origin of the weapon is widely disputed, and a number of groups, including the Arabs, Chinese, Mongols, and Europeans, claim credit for its invention. Though the hand cannon lacked accuracy and was fairly unwieldy, its armor-penetrating capabilities eventually brought the simple weapon to the forefront of European warfare. How were hand cannons fired? Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

Anthracite Coal First Burned as Residential Heating Fuel (1808)

Anthracite is a compact variety of coal that was first burned as a residential heating fuel in the US by Judge Jesse Fell in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. It differs from wood in that it needs a draft from below. By burning it on an open grate in a fireplace, Fell proved that it could be a viable heating fuel. Fell’s experiment took place 18 years after anthracite coal was said to have been discovered in Pennsylvania by hunter Necho Allen. According to legend, how did Allen “discover” anthracite? Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

Japan National Foundation Day

The nationwide holiday known as Kenkoku Kinen-no-Hi commemorates the accession to the throne of Jimmu Tenno, Japan’s first human emperor, in the year 660 BCE. He was believed to be a direct descendant of the gods and is credited with founding the Japanese empire. It is observed throughout Japan with fireworks and speeches on Japan’s position in the world. One of the most elaborate celebrations takes place in Tokyo, where special rites are performed at the Imperial Sanctuary. The emperor and empress, the prime minister, and other high officials attend the ceremony. Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary