How Irish Holidays Blend Catholic and Pagan Traditions
Many Irish holidays blend the Catholic faith with ancient Celtic tradition and mythology. Some original pagan holidays are still practiced in Ireland today.
How Microcosms Help Us Understand Ecology
Is it possible to witness evolution in action? Researchers at University of California, San Diego, aiming to do just ...
How Charles Dickens Set the American Christmas Dinner Table
How did a religious celebration turn into a holiday that is all about home, family, and Christmas dinner? Turns out Charles Dickens has a lot to do with it.
The Art of Cutting Up Shakespeare
We should acknowledge the connection between cuts as bodily violence and cuts as violent ways of making art.
How Hanukkah Became “Jewish Christmas”
For most of the Jewish world, Hanukkah is a minor holiday. What happened in America?
Avi
The beloved and prolific children's literature author Avi was born on December 23, 1937.
What Poinsettias Have to do with U.S.-Mexico Relations
Poinsettias were named for the first US diplomat to Mexico. The flower was more successful than he was. How it went from Aztec dye to Christmas decoration.
How Women Finally Broke Into the Sciences
Women finally broke into the sciences in sex-segregated jobs in the years between 1880 and 1910.
The Pledge of Allegiance’s Creepy Past
Seventy-four years ago today, lawmakers passed an amendment to the U.S. Flag Code.
Rory Gilmore: The New New Woman
Recently, Netflix brought us the Gilmore Girls revival–Rory, Lorelei, and Emily 10 years on, able to “end” the show as its creator intended.