Strange, Inglorious, Humble Things
Dorothea and Gladys Cromwell fled the constrictions of high society for the freedoms of the literary world. Ravenous for greater purpose, the twins then went to war.
Like Tomatoes? Join the Club
Organizers of girls’ tomato clubs hoped that members would learn not only how to grow tomatoes, but how to build a better future for themselves.
Burning Kelp for War
World War I saw the availability of potash plummet, while its price doubled. The US found this critical component for multiple industries in Pacific kelp.
Whatever Happened to Airships?
In moving away from fossil fuels, some in aviation are thinking of bringing back helium-assisted flight.
Dogs in the Trenches of World War I
While the history of pigeons and horses in the military is widely known, canines have gotten less attention.
How Pigeons Helped Fight World War I
At ten weeks old, many of the birds headed to the trenches, carrying back messages over distances of about ten miles.
Poetry from the Trenches of WWI
Tragically killed in action during the Battle of Arras in 1917, Edward Thomas was on the verge of a breakthrough.
When Germany Called its Soldiers Hysterical
After WWI, German psychiatrists diagnosed traumatized soldiers as having "hysteria," othering the men to somewhat disastrous effect.
The Fable of the Fourteen Points
Woodrow Wilson's legendary support for "self-determination" is indeed just a legend.