Nature
August 31, 2024

Iconic Tumbleweeds, Symobls of the American West, Are Actually Not Native to North America

Few plants are as uniquely symbolic of the American West as the lone tumbleweed. In pop culture, it has come to signify desolation, emptiness, and even boredom—almost growing into its own movie trope. It has also been a staple of Western movies, acting like a desert prop that points to the soon-to-be-tapped potential of a small town. But despite its place in the American imagination, many are unfamiliar with its origins.

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Inspiring
August 30, 2024

Meet Ana Victoria Espino, the World’s First Lawyer With Down Syndrome

History has been made in Zacatecas, Mexico. Twenty-five-year-old Ana Victoria Espino de Santiago has become the world's first lawyer with Down Syndrome. Espino received her law degree from Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas, having studied in the institution's law school for five years. Espino pushed through the obstacles to reach her goal with the help of a support system, determinedly navigating an educational system that wasn't designed for people with special needs. Unlike the U.S.

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Archeology
August 29, 2024

Roman Road Is Found Buried Under an English Village Schoolyard

History can seem distant and obscure. It can be hard to imagine scenes of everyday life long ago. But for several classes of lucky children in England, history came alive this year. The Brightwell-cum-Sotwell Primary School sits in a charming little village in Oxfordshire, England. It has playing fields standard for children's activities. But little did they know, they were playing football atop history.

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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.