Cassini, the little spacecraft that could, is going out in a blaze. For the next four months, the most sophisticated probe ever made will dance precariously between the Saturn and her icy rings, capturing spectacular images of this never-explored region. In this … Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Cinco de Mayo, the “Fifth of May,” is a Mexican holiday that commemorates the Mexican army’s unexpected victory over invading French troops at the Battle of Puebla. It is widely observed in Mexico and the US, particularly as a celebration of Mexican culture. However, it is distinct from Mexico’s Independence Day, which is held annually on September 16 and commemorates Mexico’s independence from Spanish rule in 1810. What became of the French after the Battle of Puebla? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
On May 5, 1950, King Bhumibol Adulyadej was crowned Rama IX of Thailand, the ninth king of the Chakri dynasty. Ever since, the day has been celebrated as Coronation Day in Thailand. On May 4th, the Chief of Brahmin priests reads out the official proclamation of Coronation Day. On May 5, the Buddhist monks are given a feast and the king wears his full regalia. At noon, the Royal Thai Army and Navy each give a 21-gun salute. Later in the day, the king awards medals and decorations to those citizens who have done outstanding services for the state. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Cochrane was a pioneering female journalist who wrote under the pseudonym Nellie Bly. She wrote investigative articles on topics such as the plight of female factory workers, and as a young woman worked as a foreign correspondent in Mexico. She later feigned insanity to gain access to an asylum and wrote an exposé that prompted much-needed reforms. In 1889, she circumnavigated the globe in 72 days, besting the fictional feat conceived by Jules Verne. What famous figure did she meet on the way? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Popularized by adventure, fantasy, and sci-fi literature, Hollow Earth theories advance the notion that Earth has a hollow interior and, possibly, a habitable inner surface. Although direct knowledge of Earth’s structure extends only 15 m (24 km) down—the deepest humans have ever drilled—the Hollow Earth hypothesis has long been refuted by the modern understanding of planet formation. However, in ancient times, subterranean realms seemed plausible and became linked with what religious concepts? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Definition: (noun) A jointed puppet manipulated from above by strings or wires attached to its limbs.
Synonyms: puppet.
Usage: They appeared to me clear-cut and very small, with affected voices and stiff gestures, like a procession of rigid marionettes upon a toy stage.
Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
In 1970, the US was in the midst of the Vietnam War, and antiwar demonstrations among students were common. When students at Ohio’s Kent State University decided to protest the incursion of US forces into Cambodia, no one imagined it would end in tragedy. But National Guard troops called in to disperse the crowd opened fire, killing four and wounding nine others. The shooting sparked nationwide outrage and became a rallying point for antiwar activists. Where else were student protesters killed? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Rhode Island was the first and only state to declare its independence from England entirely on its own. On May 4, 1776, both houses of the General Assembly renounced the colony’s allegiance to Great Britain—a full two months before the rest of the colonies followed suit on July 4. Rhode Islanders celebrate this event during May, which is Rhode Island Heritage Month, with flag-raising ceremonies, cannon salutes, and parades of local patriotic, veterans’, and scouting organizations. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Mann overcame limited early education to enter law and politics. He became secretary of Massachusetts’ new board of education in 1837, at a time when the public school system was in poor condition. In his 12 years there, he established high schools, enhanced teacher training and pay, curbed child labor, and improved facilities and equipment. He fought for free, nonsectarian, universal schooling, greatly advancing education in the US. What quote is engraved on his monument at Antioch College? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Identified primarily by the skin lesions it causes, leprosy is a chronic infectious disease that affects the skin, peripheral nerves in the hands and feet, and mucous membranes of the nose, throat, and eyes. Because of the deformities associated with it, leprosy has been one of the most feared diseases since biblical times. Contrary to popular belief, however, the leprosy mentioned in the Old Testament is likely an entirely different ailment than the one known today. Is leprosy treatable? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary