For centuries, churches rang their bells during storms to “drive away thunder.” It was a deadly mistake. Metal bells in tall towers acted like lightning magnets, and hundreds of bell-ringers were killed across Europe. Faith and ritual became a death … Continue reading
Mark Twain remains one of the most beloved and influential figures in American history. First and foremost, he was a great novelist. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is often called the quintessential American novel—the book that launched modern American literature. … Continue reading
Benjamin Franklin has been called “The First American.” Certainly, no life can compare to his. Benjamin Franklin was one of the most successful businessmen in American history. Although Franklin started his life in poverty, he grew to be phenomenally wealthy. … Continue reading
It is no overstatement to say that Walt Disney is one of the most influential Americans of all time. His name alone has become synonymous with forms of entertainment and recreation known throughout the world. To call something “Disneyesque” or … Continue reading
Alexander Graham Bell: Communicating with the Future When you hear the name Alexander Graham Bell, one word immediately comes to mind: telephone. But Bell was far more than the inventor of the device that revolutionized global communication. He was a … Continue reading