George Washington is famous for leading patriot troops in the American Revolution, for being the first president of the newly independent United States … and for having false teeth. One of the most persistent myths about the president is that his teeth … Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
The “Battle of Los Angeles” is the name given by contemporary sources to the imaginary enemy attack and subsequent anti-aircraft artillery barrage that took place over Los Angeles, California, just months after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Reports of an imminent strike on the city led to the sounding of air raid sirens, the imposition of a blackout, and the firing of 1,400 shells at supposed Japanese aircraft, killing several US civilians. What may have actually prompted the bombardment? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
On this day in 1918, Estonia issued a declaration of independence from the new Soviet Russia, which was followed by war with the Soviets to maintain Estonian liberty. Following a strong independence movement during the late 1980s, Estonia officially declared its independence from the former USSR on August 20, 1991, a day which is also commemorated with a public holiday. On September 6, independence was formally recognized by the former Soviet Union. Estonians celebrate their Independence Day with a parade, church services, speeches, and concerts in the capital city, Tallinn. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
A preeminent figure in American art, Homer was a largely self-taught landscape painter and printmaker. He trained as a lithographer, then became a freelance illustrator. As a correspondent for Harper’s Weekly, he won international acclaim for his depictions of the Civil War battlefront. In 1876, he abandoned illustration to devote himself to painting, later settling in coastal Maine, where the local people and seascapes became the focus of his art. What are some of his most famous works? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
The 2004 book Between a Rock and a Hard Place chronicles the experiences of Aron Ralston, an American mountain climber who survived a nearly fatal hike in the Utah desert. While Ralston was canyoneering alone in May 2003, his right forearm became trapped by a falling boulder. Unable to lift the rock, Ralston was forced to amputate his own arm in order to free himself. How many days did Ralston wait before beginning the terrible operation? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Definition: (noun) A person who shows no gratitude.
Synonyms: thankless wretch, ungrateful person.
Usage: This bird was a godsend to us, and I should be an ingrate if I forgot to make honorable mention of him in these pages.
Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
New research suggests that sea butterflies swim through Arctic waters much like flying insects traverse the air – by flapping their wings. A new study led by David Murphy, a postdoctoral researcher at Johns Hopkins University, examined the fluid mechanics… Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
In 1816, Arthur Thistlewood, a member of the revolutionary Spencean Society in London, organized a public meeting at Spa Fields, at which a revolution was to be started. However, the meeting was easily dispersed, and Thistlewood was arrested and narrowly escaped conviction for treason. Undeterred, Thistlewood later plotted the assassination of cabinet members. The government, apprised of the conspiracy, surprised the plotters at their arsenal in a Cato Street loft. What became of Thistlewood? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
In ancient Rome, February 23 marked the end of the year and was therefore an appropriate time to honor Terminus, the god of boundaries and landmarks. The terminus, a boundary stone that marked the outer limits of Rome, stood between the fifth and sixth milestones on the road to Laurentum. During the observance of the Terminalia, property owners would gather there—or at the boundary stones that marked their private lands—to place garlands around the stone and offer sacrifices. Afterward, there would be singing and socializing among family members and servants. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Born in Venice as Pietro Barbo, Pope Paul II was the successor of Pope Pius II, and the nephew of Pope Eugene IV. A Renaissance pope, he patronized printing, beautified and improved Rome, and collected antiquities. Like Pius II, he was involved in struggles with the Bohemian George of Podebrad, who was the leader of the Utraquists, or the moderate Hussites, in the wars between Hussites and Catholics. Paul excommunicated George in 1466. Who succeeded Paul II as pope? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary