History

February 27, 2021

Paris Was Rebuilt: How Baron Haussmann Created the Metropolis We Know Today

If you love the wide avenues and romantic architecture of Paris, France, you might have Baron Georges-Eugène Haussmann to thank. Though Haussmann remains one of the most controversial urban planners in history, his design for Paris has become engrained in the city’s aesthetic and reputation. Haussmann was a dynamic figure with a larger-than-life legacy.

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February 20, 2021

How African American Art and Culture Blossomed During the Harlem Renaissance

In the early 20th century, New York City's Harlem neighborhood underwent a historic transformation. During what is now described as the Harlem Renaissance, the area thrived as a cultural hub for African Americans, culminating in unprecedented advancements in art, literature, and music. Though this “golden age” lasted less than 20 years, its legacy has lived on for decades.

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February 7, 2021

What Is Hagia Sophia? Learn How This Sacred Space Has Evolved Over Its Long History

The lofty minarets of the Hagia Sophia stand over the skyline of Istanbul, Turkey. The magnificent stone basilica has been a fixture of the ancient city for 1,500 years—with frequent additions and renovations. The spiritual structure has survived empires and transitioned religions. What began as an early Christian basilica eventually became a mosque, then a museum, and is now once more a mosque. An architectural wonder, the Hagia Sophia (meaning “holy wisdom” in Greek)

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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.