History

February 18, 2024

Explore Five Volumes of the History of Cartography for Free Online

What do you know about the history of mapmaking? Cartography is an ancient tradition that has evolved from abstract to highly precise depictions that come from complex scientific readings and satellite images. It takes skill and patience to create a map, but even the best efforts are not free from bias. Maps have long reflected world-views, literally and figuratively.

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January 30, 2024

Mysterious Telegraphic Message Found in Hidden Pocket of Silk Dress From 1888 Is Finally Solved

When Sara Rivers Cofield picked up a vintage 19th-century dress in 2014, she didn't expect to find a mystery along with it. The curator and archaeologist purchased what looked like an ordinary bronze silk bustle dress from 1888 that was in extremely great condition. However, after she was able to inspect the complex garment, she realized that it came with a mysterious message—the contents of which would not be decoded until nearly 10 years later.

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January 2, 2024

Winston Churchill Had a Doctor’s Note To Drink Unlimited Alcohol While Visiting the U.S. During Prohibition

Winston Churchill is best remembered for leading the UK through World War II. Perhaps a lesser-known part of his legacy that predates WWII is his trip to the U.S. during the Prohibition era. In December 1931, Churchill was in his “Wilderness Years,” holding to his parliament seat but out of office. After taking heavy losses during the Great Depression, he set out on a lecture tour around the U.S.

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December 25, 2023

Insightful Animated Video Sums up 4.5 Billion Years of Earth’s History in 60 Minutes

Earth is estimated to be 4.5 billion years old. But even though scientists have closed in on our planet's age, it can be difficult to fully grasp such an astronomical number. To help us understand Earth's history, YouTube channel Kurzgesagt has released an animated video chronicling how everything has evolved since our planet was first formed. At 60 minutes-long, each second of the video represents about 1 million years.

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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.