The Erie Canal is a New York waterway that runs between Albany and Buffalo, linking the Hudson River with Lake Erie. It was born out of the need for an all-American water route from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic coast that became evident after the American Revolution. The canal contributed greatly to the development of New York City and the Midwest, allowing for the transport of people and supplies. Commercial traffic on the canal has since dwindled, and it is now used mainly for what purpose? Discuss
Month: October 2024
François Mitterrand (1916)
Initially a supporter of the Vichy government during World War II, Mitterrand joined the Resistance in 1943. After the war, he held cabinet posts in 11 Fourth Republic governments. He ran unsuccessfully against Charles de Gaulle’s government in 1965 but was elected president in 1981 and 1988, after which he strongly promoted European integration. Mitterrand retired in 1995, having served longer than any other French president. Who succeeded him as president of France? Discuss
Muscadine
Muscadine, a grapevine species native to the southeastern US, has been used in the production of port and fine wines since the 16th century. Recent reports regarding the relatively high antioxidant content of muscadine wines have boosted their popularity. In fact, these wines were found to contain more than five times the amount of the life-prolonging compound resveratrol than ordinary red wines. Why do muscadine plants produce these antioxidants? Discuss
prerogative
Definition: (noun) A right reserved exclusively by a particular person or group (especially a hereditary or official right).
Synonyms: exclusive right, perquisite, privilege.
Usage: The whole substance of human authority was centered in the simple doctrine of royal prerogative, the origin of which was always traced in theory to divine institution.
Discuss
George III Becomes King of Great Britain and Ireland (1760)
George III ascended the throne at the age of 22, during the Seven Years’ War. The war had put England in financial distress, and George supported raising funds through taxation of the American colonies. This policy proved disastrous for him, as it provoked the American Revolution and led him to be blamed in part for losing the colonies. Later in life, George’s mental health declined, and his son acted as regent after 1811. It has been suggested that he suffered from what hereditary disease? Discuss
Minnie Pearl (1912)
Pearl was an American country comedienne, born Sarah Colley in Centerville, Tennessee. One of the Grand Ole Opry’s most iconic performers, she appeared on the show for more than 50 years, performing routines that gently poked fun at rural Southern culture. Outfitted in styleless “down home” dresses and a hat with a price tag that dangled over its brim, she also appeared regularly on the television show Hee Haw from 1969 to 1991. On whom was the Minnie Pearl character based? Discuss
Persian Miniatures
Persian miniatures are small paintings with themes that often depict concepts from Persian mythology and poetry. The best-known form of Persian painting in the West, miniature painting became a significant Persian art form in the 13th century, peaking in the 15th and 16th centuries. Likely influenced by the Western and Byzantine traditions of manuscript illumination, Persian miniature is characterized by the use of geometry and a vivid palette. What other culture heavily influenced the art form? Discuss
lubricious
Zambia Independence Day
On this day in 1964, the British colony of Northern Rhodesia became the independent Republic of Zambia, after decades of nationalist struggle. For two days, celebrations and parades are held all over Zambia, but the most elaborate are in the capital city of Lusaka. Labor and youth organizations march along with the armed forces with dancing and music. Various tribal dances from all over the country are performed in Independence Stadium, and there are gymnastics performances by children. October 24 is also the occasion for the final game of the annual Independence Soccer Trophy. Discuss
Sarah Josepha Buell Hale (1788)
Hale was an American writer and editor who turned to writing in 1822 as a widow trying to support her family. She edited Ladies’ Magazine, the first successful US women’s magazine, and then Godey’s Lady’s Book, with which it merged. As the first female magazine editor, she shaped many of the attitudes and ideas of women of the period. Hale is also credited with helping to make Thanksgiving a national holiday in the US. What popular nursery rhyme did she write? Discuss