June 24, 1812: Forgetting the Most Famous Classic Blunder, Napoleon’s army invades Russia. Despite having one of the largest armies ever gathered, the French leader failed to win the decisive victory he expected, and was forced to retreat during Russia’s brutal winter. June 24, 1916: Mary Pickford, silent film star and United Artists co-founder, becomes […]
Today in History, June 23
June 23, 1611: Intent on making good time, Henry Hudson presses his crew to continue exploring what is now Hudson Bay; his crew, intent on going home, set him, his son, and several crew members adrift in the bay. 1926: The first SAT exams are given. No word on whether or not it became part […]
Moral Evolution (We’re Not There Yet)
The full text: Plenty of people wish well to any good cause, but very few care to exert themselves to help it, and still fewer will risk anything in its support. “Some one ought to do it, but why should I?” is the ever reëchoed phrase of weak-kneed amiability. “Some one ought to do […]
Today In History: June 21 (Special Father’s Day Edition)
Even Badass Women celebrate Father’s Day*! While Mother’s Day became law in 1914, it took another 58 years for the dads to get their turn. Various dates were celebrated annually for most of the 20th century, but it wasn’t until 1972 that the most-cuddliest of American presidents, Richard Nixon, would grant the menfolk their own special […]
Remembering My Dad on Father’s Day
Dear Daddy, It’s almost Father’s Day again. I haven’t consciously remembered or celebrated Father’s Day since you’ve been gone. Growing up, Mom made sure she signed cards “from me” for my uncles. As an adult, I sometimes even remember to say Happy Father’s Day to James. Once in a while, I’m really together, and I […]