When the maneuverable siege cannon came into use in the 15th century, military engineers had to rethink medieval-style fortifications, whose tall, broad walls were highly vulnerable to cannon fire. They developed the star fort, or trace italienne, a flat, tiered structure composed of low, thick walls embedded in ditches, whose complex shape allowed defensive cannons to cover interlocking fields of fire. What technologies eventually rendered the star fort’s intricate geometry irrelevant? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Situated on the thin isthmus that connects North and South America but divides the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, Panama has long been a vital crossroad for trade and travel. Under Spanish control for more than 300 years, Panama finally broke with Spain to join a newly independent Colombia as the Spanish empire faltered. Today, in addition to celebrating that Independence Day, the country observes another. When did Panama separate from Colombia, gaining a second independence—and another holiday? 
The Ascension of 
Not long after Hyde allegedly attended his wife’s funeral dressed in women’s clothes, the queen of England—whom Hyde had also reportedly dressed as during an official event—dismissed him from his post as governor of New York and New Jersey. The decision was purportedly prompted by mounting complaints from the colonists he governed, including myriad charges of corruption. He was later imprisoned for debt. What is known about the portrait that supposedly depicts him wearing a gown? 
Often called the “missing link” between annelids—such as earthworms and leeches—and arthropods—such as crustaceans, insects, and centipedes—velvet worms are found in wet, warm to temperate habitats on several continents. They are named for the feel of their skin, which is covered in fine hairs. Velvet worms are predators that can immobilize animals several times their own size with an adhesive substance ejected from glands in their heads. In what unusual way do velvet worms breathe?