Ben Franklin in Paris: How the Founding Father Won France’s Support
Source: History Channel
As colonists faced tough odds in the Revolutionary War, America’s first diplomat worked his charm to win France’s vital backing.
Historic Figures
How to celebrate Shakespeare’s birthday
Source: Folger Shakespeare Library
Attention, Shakespeare enthusiasts everywhere! The bard’s birthday is coming up on April 23rd. Check out this link to get some fun ideas for your Shakespeare celebration.
The “Lieber Code” – The First Modern Codification of the Laws of War
Source: Library of Congress Blog
Have you ever heard of the Geneva Conventions? They are a series of treaties that define how many aspects of war are to be conducted–such as the taking of prisoners or treatment of civilians. But did you know the first modern attempt to write rules for warfare actually happened during the Civil War? They were written by Francis Lieber and issued in 1863 by Abraham Lincoln as instructions for what Union soldiers could–and couldn’t–do while waging war in the field.
6 Black Heroes of the Civil War
Source: History
Read about acts of courage that left a lasting impact during the American Civil War.
How the Costumes of ‘American Born Chinese’ Straddle Fantasy and Reality
Source: CNN
The imprint of Greek and Roman mythology is all around us, from the names of our shoes (Nike, the goddess of victory) to the names of the planets (Mercury, Venus, Mars, etc). And maybe a certain recent movie series has made you familiar with a little Norse mythology, like Thor and Loki, too. Now a new show is introducing Western audiences to Chinese mythology. Find out how costume designers approached dressing ancient Chinese gods for a modern American audience.
Shakespeare-Fan King Charles Celebrates 400 Years Since the First Folio
Source: Reuters
Shakespeare, an iconic figure in English history, is celebrated and beloved by another significant English figure, King Charles. Read about how and why King Charles celebrates the 400-year anniversary of Shakespeare’s First Folio.
Wilma Rudolph Biography
Source: Biography
Wilma Rudolph was a remarkable American athlete who overcame massive illness as a young child. Her achievements at the 1960 Olympics were impressive and inspirational.
How Anne Frank’s Diary Changed the World
Source: Smithsonian Magazine
See pages from Anne Frank’s diary with explanatory notes in this excerpt from the book 100 Documents That Changed the World.
10 Facts about Madame D’Aulnoy Who Coined the Word Fairytale
Source: BookRiot
D’Aulnoy helped create the fairytale genre we know and enjoy today. Skim the article to find out some interesting facts about her life and work.
Since American Revolution, women have played part on front lines
Source: The Daily Item
Women in the United States have always been active participants in war efforts, dating all the way back to the American Revolution.