Category: Article of the Day

Mud volcanoes are formations created by the geological emission of liquids and gases. They are frequently associated with earthquake zones, and when they erupt, they release an often acidic slurry as well as methane and other hydrocarbon gases. Some mud volcanoes also spew flames when they erupt, though the volcanoes themselves tend to be relatively cool. A 2006 drilling accident in Indonesia created a mud volcano that inundated a number of villages and displaced how many people? Discuss

In 1853, after being told by doctors that he had just six months to live, Galen Clark moved to Yosemite National Park. There, he defied medical expectations and lived for another 57 years. During this time, he discovered the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoia trees and dedicated himself to exploring the park and teaching others about the massive trees. His passion for the area earned him his reputation as guardian of the park and led to the passing of the Yosemite Grant, which ensures what? Discuss

The Indian March of Paul, a secret plot to attack British territories in India, was organized by Napoleon Bonaparte and his coconspirator Emperor Paul I of Russia. The plan called for two infantry units, one Russian and one French, to march to India. In a possible attempt to mask the true objective of the campaign, engineers, painters, and scientists were included in the expeditionary force. The Russian unit began its march to India in January 1801, but turned back a few months later; why? Discuss

Among the most intricately illuminated manuscripts to survive from the Middle Ages, the Book of Kells, created by Celtic monks around 800 CE, is an ornate masterpiece of the Hiberno-Saxon style. Described as the peak of Western calligraphy and illumination, the book features the four Gospels in Latin. However, there are a number of errors in the text, including the use of the Latin word “gaudium” instead of the correct term, “gladium.” How does that mistake change the meaning of Matthew 10:34? Discuss

Known in China as Chang Jiang, the Yangtze is the longest river in Asia and the third longest in the world. Originating in a mountain glacier on the eastern part of the Tibetan plateau, the river flows eastward and meets up with the East China Sea at Shanghai. Heavily traveled and highly polluted, the Yangtze is home to at least two endangered species: the Chinese Alligator and the Chinese Paddlefish. What animal was reportedly seen in the river after its species was declared extinct in 2006? Discuss

Arising during the English Reformation, the vestments controversy superficially pertained to vestments—liturgical garments worn by clergy members—but more fundamentally concerned the future of English Protestant identity, doctrine, and various church practices. The controversy stemmed in part from a debate about whether or not the wearing of vestments should be required during certain religious ceremonies. The development of which two branches of Protestantism was affected by the debate? Discuss

The classic Mongolian script was the first of many writing systems created for the Mongolian language. It is still in use today—having been only slightly modified since its initial development—in China’s Inner Mongolia region. The script was created in the early 13th century, when Genghis Khan ordered a captured scribe to create a writing system. In 1587, a number of new characters were devised to transcribe sounds from foreign languages. In what direction is Mongolian script written? Discuss

Amala and Kamala were two so-called “wolf-girls”—feral children allegedly raised by a family of wolves before being found in 1920 near Calcutta, India, at eight and 18 months old, respectively. They were taken in by the rector of a local orphanage, who documented his observations of them in a diary for almost 10 years and claimed that, like wolves, the girls were nocturnal, did not allow themselves to be dressed, and walked on all fours. What other wolfish behaviors did they allegedly display? Discuss

The Ryutin Affair, one of the last attempts of the Soviet Communist Party to oppose Stalin, took place in 1932, when Martemyan Ryutin, an Old Bolshevik, decided to secretly oppose the controversial Soviet leader. In a nearly 200-page document now known as the “Ryutin Platform,” he called for Stalin’s elimination and a “fresh start,” but he was soon identified as the author, imprisoned, and ultimately executed. What happened when Stalin initially proposed the death penalty for Ryutin? Discuss

The Maasai are a largely nomadic pastoral people whose territory is divided between Tanzania and Kenya. Their distinctive customs and dress and their proximity to many East African game parks have made them one of the most internationally well-known African ethnic groups. The Maasai measure wealth in terms of cattle and children, rather than money, and someone who has plenty of one but not the other is considered poor. How does killing lions factor into traditional Maasai culture? Discuss