History Brief

The Prohibition era in the United States, spanning from 1920 to 1933, was a time of social upheaval, law enforcement challenges, and widespread defiance. One of the most iconic images from this period is the "Tower of Barrels," a towering structure made entirely of confiscated alcohol barrels that was set ablaze in 1929. This dramatic event, staged by law enforcement in New York City, was both a powerful symbol of the government's determination to enforce Prohibition and a reflection of the era's complex and often contradictory dynamics.  The Rise of Prohibition The 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1919, and the subsequent Volstead Act, which defined the legal parameters of the amendment, ushered in the era of Prohibition. The goal was to eliminate the social problems associated with alcohol consumption, such as crime, domestic violence, and poverty. However, rather than eradicating these issues, Prohibition led to an underground economy where alco...

In May 2023, the ancient city of Syedra in Southern Turkey became the focus of global archaeological interest with the discovery of a marble foot, approximately 1.6 feet long. This seemingly small but significant fragment is believed to have been part of a statue depicting one of Rome’s most revered emperors, Marcus Aurelius. The find is more than just a remarkable piece of Roman art; it is a connection to a pivotal era in history, offering new insights into the legacy of an emperor who was both a powerful leader and a Stoic philosopher.  The City of Syedra: A Window into the Past Syedra, located on the southern coast of modern-day Turkey, was once a thriving city at the edge of the Roman Empire. Though lesser-known compared to other ancient cities, Syedra played a significant role in the region, serving as a vital hub for trade and culture. The city’s strategic location made it a crucial point of contact between the Roman world and the surrounding territories. The discovery of the...

  In the summer of 1939, as the specter of war loomed over Europe, a remarkable discovery near Woodbridge, Suffolk, would shift attention from the present to a distant, mysterious past. The unearthing of the Sutton Hoo burial site, one of the most significant archaeological finds in England, brought to light a treasure trove of artifacts from the early 7th century. Among the finds was a grand ship burial filled with exquisite treasures, including a magnificent ceremonial helmet that has since become an icon of Anglo-Saxon art and culture. Yet, despite the wealth of artifacts, the Sutton Hoo burial is perhaps best known for what it lacks—human remains, which have been dissolved by the acidic soil, leaving the identity of the buried individual an enduring mystery.  The Discovery of Sutton Hoo The story of Sutton Hoo’s discovery begins with Edith Pretty, the landowner of the estate where the burial mounds were located. Intrigued by the ancient mounds on her property, Pretty decid...

  In the remote Kimberley region of north-western Australia lies a treasure trove of rock art that offers an unparalleled glimpse into the ancient world. These artworks, some of which date back an astonishing 41,000 to possibly 50,000 years, are among the oldest human-made creations on Earth. Crafted by Indigenous Australians, these masterpieces are more than just paintings on rocks; they are a testament to the deep connection between the land and its first inhabitants.  A Journey Through Time The Kimberley rock art is not just a single body of work but a vast collection of artistic expressions that have evolved over tens of thousands of years. Found in rock shelters, on boulders, and across flat rock surfaces, these artworks are spread across a landscape that is as rugged as it is beautiful. The sheer number of these sites is staggering—estimates suggest tens of thousands of locations, with many still undiscovered, waiting to reveal their secrets. The rock art of the Kimberle...

On May 31, 1885, Dr. John Harvey Kellogg of Battle Creek, Michigan, filed a patent application that would forever change the landscape of breakfast foods. This patent, titled "Flaked cereal, and process of making same," marked the beginning of what would eventually become one of the most iconic and enduring breakfast staples: Kellogg's cornflakes. However, behind this seemingly straightforward invention lies a complex story of family dynamics, innovation, and the pursuit of a healthier diet.  The Origins of Flaked Cereal Dr. John Harvey Kellogg was not just any physician; he was a leading figure in the wellness movement of his time, known for his strong advocacy of vegetarianism and gut health. As the director of the Battle Creek Sanitarium, a health spa and medical institution in Michigan, Dr. Kellogg was always on the lookout for new ways to improve the health and well-being of his patients. His focus on diet and nutrition led him to experiment with various food product...

In the 1980s, a remarkable archaeological discovery was made near Nieuw-Dordrecht in the Netherlands: a well-preserved Neolithic wooden road, buried deep within a peat bog. This ancient road, dating back an impressive 4,573 years, extends for at least 800 meters, offering a rare and fascinating insight into the engineering prowess of early European societies. The precise dating of this road to around 2,549 BC was made possible through dendrochronology, the scientific method of dating tree rings. By analyzing the growth patterns in the wood used to construct the road, experts were able to pinpoint its exact age. This find has provided invaluable information about the transportation and trade practices of Neolithic communities in the region, shedding light on their daily lives and technological capabilities. The preservation of this wooden road in the peat bogs is particularly noteworthy. Peat bogs are known for their ability to preserve organic materials, including wood, which would oth...

In 1939, a significant archaeological discovery was made at Aventicum, the ancient capital of the Helvetii, now located in modern-day Switzerland. Aventicum, which became part of the Roman Empire in 15 BC under Emperor Augustus, held a prominent position in the Roman province of Gallia Belgica. The city was a thriving center of commerce, culture, and politics during the Roman Empire, and its ruins continue to provide invaluable insights into the past. Among the many treasures unearthed during excavations, one artifact stands out for its grandeur, craftsmanship, and historical significance: the golden bust of Emperor Marcus Aurelius.  Aventicum: The Heart of the Helvetii Before delving into the discovery of the golden bust, it is essential to understand the historical context of Aventicum. The Helvetii, a Celtic tribe, originally inhabited this region. Aventicum became their capital and was later transformed into a flourishing Roman city after the Helvetii were integrated into the R...

On April 28th, 2021, the world lost Michael Collins, an astronaut whose contributions to one of humanity's greatest achievements have often been overshadowed. Collins, the command module pilot for Apollo 11, played a crucial role in the historic 1969 moon landing mission, even though his name is less widely recognized than those of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin. While Armstrong and Aldrin made their famous moonwalk, Collins remained alone in the Command Module, orbiting the moon for 28 hours. His experience, though less celebrated, was integral to the success of the mission and provided a unique perspective on solitude, duty, and exploration.  The Man Who Orbited the Moon Michael Collins was born on October 31, 1930, in Rome, Italy, to a military family. His early life was marked by frequent moves, which fostered in him a sense of independence and a love of adventure. After graduating from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Collins chose a career in the Air Force, eventually...

  In the quiet seaside town of Margate, Kent, England, lies a mystery that has puzzled historians, archaeologists, and curious visitors for nearly two centuries. The Shell Grotto, an underground passageway adorned with millions of shells, stands as one of history’s most baffling enigmas. Discovered by chance in 1835, this hidden gem is a testament to human ingenuity and artistic expression, yet it remains shrouded in mystery. Who built it? When was it constructed? And, perhaps most intriguingly, why? These questions continue to fascinate and confound those who explore its intricately decorated walls.  A Discovery Shrouded in Mystery The story of the Shell Grotto begins in 1835 when James Newlove, a local schoolmaster, was digging a duck pond in his garden. During the excavation, he stumbled upon a hole in the ground. Curious, he lowered his son into the darkness, only to discover a breathtaking underground passage lined with millions of shells. What Newlove had uncovered was a...

JOANNE CAPESTRO AND COLLEAGUE FLEEING WORLD TRADE CENTER SITE ON SEPT. 11, 2001, AS CAPTURED BY PHIL PENMAN. COLLECTION 9/11 MEMORIAL MUSEUM. Survivors of the 9/11 attacks have learned to cope with a range of trauma, from survivor guilt to post-traumatic stress disorder. But out of this pain emerged a wide-ranging community of evacuees ready to support one another. Today we are highlighting one such meaningful connection: the entwined stories of Joanne Capestro and Phil Penman, an office worker and a photographer whose lives intersected with the brief click of the camera shutter in a moment of chaos. On Sept. 11, 2001, Joanne “JoJo” Capestro arrived to her job as an executive assistant at the May Davis Group on the 87th floor of the North Tower with a cup of take-out tea, feeling run down from a case of bronchitis. At 8:46 a.m., a ferocious jolt toppled Capestro from her seat, spilling her tea. Falling ceiling tiles and jet fuel fumes propelled her to scout an exit with her coworkers t...

  In the world of archaeology, every find has the potential to reshape our understanding of ancient civilizations. However, some discoveries are so remarkable that they stand out even among the most significant finds. One such discovery was made during the excavation of the Villa della Pisanella in Boscoreale, a small town near Naples, Italy. Unearthed from the depths of this ancient Roman villa was the world’s only known intact Roman boiler, complete with all its pipes, valves, and accessories. This extraordinary find offers an unparalleled glimpse into the technological sophistication of Roman engineering.  The Villa della Pisanella: A Glimpse into Roman Life The Villa della Pisanella is one of several Roman villas that once dotted the countryside around Pompeii. These villas were not merely luxurious residences; they were also productive estates that played a crucial role in the local economy. Located in the fertile region near the slopes of Mount Vesuvius, the villa likely...

  In the halls of the United States Air Force Academy, cadets pass by countless individuals daily, often unaware of the remarkable stories some of these people carry with them. One such story belongs to William J. Crawford, a humble janitor who worked quietly and diligently, blending into the background of academy life. Yet, hidden beneath his unassuming demeanor was a story of extraordinary bravery and sacrifice—a story that remained untold for decades until a curious cadet unearthed the truth. William J. Crawford was born on May 19, 1918, in Pueblo, Colorado. Like many young men of his generation, he was called to serve during World War II, where he enlisted in the United States Army. On September 13, 1943, Private Crawford found himself in the thick of battle in Altavilla, Italy. Serving as a scout for the 36th Infantry Division, Crawford's platoon was tasked with taking a strategically important hill held by German forces. As they advanced, they were met with heavy machine-gun ...

  Nestled in the picturesque region of Aveyron, France, stands a remarkable piece of history—a house that has withstood the test of time for over 700 years. Built in the 13th century, this ancient dwelling is recognized as the oldest house in France. It not only serves as a testament to medieval architecture but also offers a unique glimpse into the lives of its past inhabitants, particularly a woman named Jeanne, who once called it home.  A 13th-Century Marvel The house, with its weathered stone walls and quaint charm, is a marvel of medieval construction. Despite its age, it remains a sturdy and enduring structure, a relic from a time when life was vastly different from what we know today. The house's longevity is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the builders who constructed it with the materials available at the time. The fact that it has survived centuries of change and remains standing is a remarkable achievement.  Jeanne’s Home: A Window into the Past T...

  Hidden away in the heart of the Dordogne region in southwestern France lies the Grotte de Bernifal, a remarkable cave that offers a rare and extraordinary glimpse into the lives of our distant ancestors. The cave, adorned with over 100 engravings and paintings, is a striking testament to the creativity, spirituality, and daily life of prehistoric humans who lived there over 15,000 years ago.  Among the various figures depicted on the walls of Bernifal, the most striking is a human portrait, a rare find from a period when human representations in cave art were uncommon. This portrait, dated to around 15,000 BC, offers an invaluable insight into the early artistic endeavors of humankind and stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of these ancient artists.  A Canvas of Stone: The Art of Bernifal The Grotte de Bernifal is a true treasure trove of prehistoric art. Its walls are adorned with engravings and paintings of various animals that roamed the region during the Up...

  In the harrowing environment of a Vietnamese prison camp during the Vietnam War, courage and intelligence often manifested in unexpected ways. One such example is the story of an American prisoner of war (POW) who, despite the challenges and dangers he faced, earned the derisive nickname "The Incredibly Stupid One" from his Vietnamese captors. This seemingly mocking label concealed the incredible ingenuity and bravery of a man who would later provide invaluable information to his superiors upon his return to the United States.  The Life of a POW: Survival and Defiance Life as a POW during the Vietnam War was an ordeal of unimaginable hardship. Captured soldiers were subjected to brutal treatment, including physical and psychological torture. The conditions in the camps were designed to break the will of the prisoners, extracting confessions, propaganda statements, or other information useful to the enemy. In this grim setting, the ability to maintain one's sanity and sp...

  In the late 19th century, as photography was still in its infancy, capturing the ephemeral beauty and power of natural phenomena was a daunting task. Among the most elusive and awe-inspiring of these was lightning, a symbol of nature’s raw and uncontrollable energy. In 1882, American photographer William Nicholson Jennings achieved what many thought impossible—he became the first person to successfully photograph a lightning strike. This achievement not only marked a milestone in the history of photography but also had significant implications for the study of meteorology, providing scientists with a new way to understand and analyze the intricate structure of lightning.  The Man Behind the Lens: William Nicholson Jennings William Nicholson Jennings was a man of diverse interests, but his passion for photography and fascination with lightning defined his career. Born in Philadelphia in 1860, Jennings was captivated by the burgeoning art of photography from an early age. As h...