Figures
The Man Who Pulled Off the Biggest Scam in History: Charles Ponzi
In the early 20th century, Charles Ponzi became synonymous with deception, leading to the creation of the term "Ponzi Scheme" — a fraud so audacious and elaborate that it left financial markets reeling. But who exactly was Charles Ponzi? And how did this immigrant from Italy manage to pull off one of the greatest scams the world has ever seen? Strap in, because this is a story filled with twists, greed, and a lot of funny money.
By Marveline Merababout a year ago in History
The Myth of the Amazons
Throughout history, ancient mythologies often attributed natural phenomena like lightning, volcanoes, and rivers to divine origins. Many legends revolved around powerful characters, some of divine descent, who interacted with both gods and humans. In Greek mythology, which holds a special place in cultural history, one of the most fascinating legends is that of the Amazons, a tribe of fierce warrior women. Renowned for their mastery of horseback riding, archery, and bravery in battle, the Amazons have sparked the imagination for centuries. But were these legendary women real? What do historical records say about them? In mythology, the Amazons were said to be the daughters of Ares, the god of war. They formed an all-female society where men were welcome solely for reproduction purposes. These warrior women lived on the fringes of what the Greeks considered the "civilized" world, often depicted as residing in distant regions near the southern shores of the Black Sea. According to the playwright Aeschylus (c. 525-456 BCE), the Amazons once lived in Scythia, near the Meotis Lake, now known as the Sea of Azov, before moving to the city-state of Themiscyra by the Thermodon River. Interestingly, the Thermodon is a real river in northern Turkey, now called the Terme River.
By A Históriaabout a year ago in History
Archaeologists Uncover One of the World's Oldest Churches: A Testament to Early Christianity
In an extraordinary archaeological find, researchers have uncovered the remains of an ancient Armenian church believed to be nearly 2,000 years old. This remarkable discovery, made in the city of Artaxata, sheds new light on the early spread of Christianity in the region and stands as one of the oldest known Christian churches in the world. Described as a "sensational testimony to early Christianity" by the University of Münster, this finding is a significant contribution to understanding both Armenia’s religious history and the broader history of early Christianity.
By Global News Updateabout a year ago in History
Why the Curse of Tutankhamun Might Be Real
In the early 20th century, a dramatic tale unfolded in Egypt that captured the imagination of the world—a curse that was said to doom anyone who dared to disturb the tomb of the ancient Egyptian pharaoh, Tutankhamun. Fast forward nearly a century, and the Curse of Tutankhamun still intrigues and terrifies, with many wondering: could there be any truth behind this mysterious curse?
By Marveline Merababout a year ago in History
Anita Bryant and the "Save Our Children" Campaign: A Legacy of Anti-Gay Activism
In the late 1970s, singer and former beauty queen Anita Bryant launched a national campaign that would make her the face of anti-LGBTQ activism in America. Bryant, who was known for her wholesome image and Christian values, became a polarizing figure through her Save Our Children campaign, which aimed to repeal a Miami-Dade County ordinance that prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation. This movement was built around a narrative that framed LGBTQ individuals as a threat to children and traditional family values.
By Marveline Merababout a year ago in History
Shuntaro Hida: A Lifelong Advocate Against Nuclear Weapons and Survivor of Hiroshima
Shuntaro Hida (January 1, 1917 – March 20, 2017) was a prominent Japanese physician, Hiroshima atomic bomb survivor, and tireless advocate against nuclear weapons. Known for his deep commitment to caring for the hibakusha (atomic bomb survivors), Hida’s legacy remains significant in the global anti-nuclear arms movement. His firsthand experience during the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and his long-standing activism made him a key figure in shedding light on the devastating effects of nuclear radiation on human health.
By Marveline Merababout a year ago in History
Claudette Colbert: A Luminary of Hollywood's Golden Age
Claudette Colbert, born Emilie (Lily) Claudette Chauchoin on September 13, 1903, in Saint-Mandé, France, is remembered as one of Hollywood's most iconic actresses. With a career spanning over three decades, Colbert's charm and versatility captivated audiences worldwide, making her a leading figure in American cinema during the 20th century.
By Marveline Merababout a year ago in History
Mohandas Gandhi: The Father of Nonviolent Resistance
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, commonly known as Mahatma Gandhi, was a pivotal figure in the struggle for Indian independence from British rule. His advocacy for satyagraha (truth-force or nonviolent resistance) has made him one of the most influential leaders in modern history. Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolence, deeply rooted in his personal belief in truth and justice, not only shaped the course of India’s independence movement but also inspired civil rights movements worldwide, particularly in the United States.
By Marveline Merababout a year ago in History
This 100-Year-Old Corpse Blinks Twice Every Day: Rosalia Lombardo
What do Arnold Vosloo, Saint Teresa of Calcutta, the boy king Tutankhamun, the woman who forcibly ejected you from her body on the day you were born, and Ötzi the Iceman have in common? That's right— they're all mummies! While we’re particularly interested in the soft-tissue-preserved variety of mummies in this tale, I assure you, your mum’s not included.
By Marveline Merababout a year ago in History
Has JFK's Real Assassin Finally Been Revealed?
The assassination of John Fitzgerald Kennedy in November 1963 stands as one of the most defining moments of the 20th century. It’s a “where were you when it happened” kind of event, akin to 9/11 and the moon landing. The President of the United States of America is among the most powerful individuals on the planet, but for JFK, that power was stripped away in an instant with the pull of a trigger. This tragic event not only shocked the world but also became a magnet for conspiracy theories, turning the assassination into one of history’s most scrutinized and debated incidents.
By Marveline Merababout a year ago in History
The Journey to Rochester. Content Warning.
After the win at Stamford Bridge, I was confident our militia was strong enough to take on the Duke of Normandy. Yet, here I lay in the wake of the Battle of Hastings, with regret, defeat, and anger in my heart. The battlefield drenched with the blood of 10,000 Anglo-Saxon and Norman men, King Godwinson among them. For a moment, I allow my mind to sink into darkness. Perhaps I should join my countrymen in death; perhaps it’s all my fault; perhaps William really is a conqueror. Soon after, my salvation arrives—a boy dressed in anxiety, clenching a piece of paper. With a soft voice, he asks if I'm Lieutenant Edmond. Reluctantly, I reply, “Yes,” and he hands me the letter.
By Stephanie Fineourabout a year ago in History
