Podcast Transcript The month of August was named in honor of the emperor Augustus by the Roman Senate. Originally called Sextilis, the sixth month in the early Roman calendar, it was renamed in 8 BC to recognize Augustus’s achievements, particularly his victories and consolidation of power. According to Roman tradition, the month was chosen because …
Podcast Transcript In the 13th century, the Republic of Venice was one of the leading merchant empires in Europe. The merchants from Venice traveled far and wide in pursuit of profit. A few of them, however, traveled very far. A small group of men from the same family made the extremely long and dangerous voyage …
Podcast Transcript One of the most popular foods around the world is the hamburger. If most people think of American foods, it is probably the first thing that comes to mind. Hamburgers are pretty simple in terms of what they are composed of and how they are prepared, but they have developed an enormous amount …
Podcast Transcript Catherine the Great was one of the most influential rulers in Russian history, transforming the Russian Empire into a major European power through territorial expansion, internal reforms, and cultural patronage. Her reign marked the pinnacle of Enlightened Absolutism in Russia, as she embraced Western philosophical ideals while consolidating autocratic rule. Yet, she was …
Podcast Transcript Located in the Pearl River Delta, off the mainland of the People’s Republic of China, is Macau. Macau is often overlooked due to its larger neighbor, Hong Kong, but Macau, despite being similar, has had its own unique history. What began as a fishing village evolved into a major trading port, and in …
Podcat Transcript One of the most popular sports in North America and Northern Europe is ice hockey. Ice hockey, like all popular sports, has undergone considerable changes since its inception. In fact, hockey has a rather surprising origin and a relationship to other sports that many people are unaware of. Today, professional hockey is a …
Podcast Transcript Colors are something that we are all familiar with. The colors are among the first things we teach children. What if I were to tell you not every culture has the same colors? By that, I don’t mean they have different words for colors, but some very basic colors have no words at …
Podcast Transcript In 1818, the man who would go on to become one of the greatest leaders in the cause against American slavery was himself born into slavery. At the age of 20, he escaped bondage and went on to lead one of the most remarkable careers of the 19th century. He led a multifaceted …
Podcast Transcript One of the most popular fruits in the world are apples. Apples are associated with the Garden of Eden, pleasing your teacher, and the story of Snow White. They play a role in Greek and Norse mythology, and they have lent their name to famous record and computer companies. However, apples are unlike …