Holodomor

A combination of the Ukrainian words holod, meaning “hunger,” and mor, meaning “plague,” the term Holodomor refers to the Ukrainian famine that led to millions of deaths in 1932 and 1933. Though some scholars note that natural causes—such as weather and a poor harvest—might have contributed to the famine, most modern historians agree that it was a direct result of the policies of the Soviet Union under Joseph Stalin. For that reason, the Holodomor is sometimes referred to as what? Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

Singapore Is Expelled from Malaysia (1965)

After more than a century of British rule, Singapore gained independence in 1959. Four years later, it joined with nearby territories to form Malaysia. However, racial and economic tensions arose, and two years later, the Malaysian parliament unanimously voted to expel Singapore. Despite being left unexpectedly autonomous with few defenses or natural resources, Singapore rapidly developed into an economic powerhouse. Still, it remains dependent on Malaysia for what one critical thing? Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

Singapore National Day

Singapore National Day is a public holiday in Singapore to commemorate its independence. Singapore was the administrative seat for the Straits Settlements, a British crown colony, from 1867 until it was occupied by Japan in World War II. It was restored to Britain in 1945, became a part of Malaysia in 1963, and became independent in 1965. The holiday is celebrated with a spectacular parade, cultural dances, and fireworks. Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

Izaak Walton (1593)

A friend and fishing companion of John Donne, Walton wrote one of the most famous and frequently reprinted books in the English language, The Compleat Angler; or, the Contemplative Man’s Recreation. The book not only describes the strategies and techniques of fishing, it also draws a picture of peace and simple virtue that was Walton’s protest against the civil wars taking place at the time. Though the book was first published in 1653, Walton continued to add to it—for how long? Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

Danites

In 1838, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from Caldwell County, Missouri, founded a fraternal organization known as the Danites. Though it is believed that the Danites operated as a vigilante group during the Mormon War, historians disagree as to the exact nature and scope of the organization. Nevertheless, the Danites and their alleged atrocities have become part of Mormon folklore and were even featured in the first novel starring which fictional detective? Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

See the Exquisite Fossil that Revealed the Colors of a Giant Armored Nodosaur

For the biggest animals, bulk is a great defense. Other creatures need tricks, like the snowy coat of an arctic hare or a hagfish’s choking slime clouds. But elephants and rhinoceroses get by with tough hides and sheer size. They have little to fear …

Source: The Free Dictionary

2008 Summer Olympics Begin in Beijing, China (2008)

At 8:08 PM on 8-8-08, the opening ceremony for the Summer Olympics began. Held in the new Beijing National Stadium—nicknamed “the Bird’s Nest”—it marked China’s first time hosting the Olympics. The nearly four-hour event, which showcased Chinese culture, was a popular and logistical success, and the games became one of the most-watched TV events in history. However, in the international torch relay before the opening ceremony, protests in what city caused the Olympic torch to be extinguished? Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary