History

April 1, 2020

A Light-Hearted History of April Fools’ Day, an Unofficial Holiday Celebrated Around the World

Happy April Fools’ Day! Every year on April 1st, fun-loving jokesters dupe, deceive, and play pranks on others—all under the guise of honoring an unofficial holiday. Have you ever wondered why we have a day dedicated to making mischief? Although pinpointing the exact origin of the humorous holiday is tricky, countries around the world have reveled in their own versions of April Fools’ Day for centuries.

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March 17, 2020

A “Wee” History of the Leprechaun, a Legendary Character From Irish Folklore

Though famously short in stature, leprechauns have landed a big role in Irish folklore. These “wee folk” have captured imaginations for centuries, enchanting generation after generation with green get-ups and promises o’ gold. Though the leprechaun is a staple of pop culture in the Emerald Isle and beyond, its origins are a bit more mysterious. Fortunately, if you’ve ever wished you knew more about these little sprites, you’re in luck!

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February 23, 2020

Moulin Rouge: Explore the Dazzling History of Paris’ Most Celebrated Cabaret

Coated in candy-colored paint and topped with a windmill, the Moulin Rouge is one of Paris’ most recognizable icons. The celebrated cabaret has stood as a symbol of fun and fancy since La Belle Époque, when it first popped up in the heart of the City of Love. Given its iconic reputation, you probably know a thing or two about the Moulin Rouge.

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February 9, 2020

How “La Belle Époque” Transformed Paris Into the City We Know and Love Today

When you think of Paris, its illustrious landmarks likely come to mind. While some of these monuments date all the way back to the Middle Ages, many of them were constructed during La Belle Époque. Emerging in the late 19th century, this “golden age” saw the construction of icons ranging from the emblematic Eiffel Tower to the city’s sinuous metro entrances.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.