“Marriage is the most natural state of man, and . . . the state in which you will find solid happiness.” – Benjamin Franklin Benjamin Franklin was the George Clooney of his day. One might not look at Benjamin Franklin and think sex icon, but standards for popular fan craze in Ben’s day were not centered on physical qualities, but rather social status and … [Read more...] about Benjamin Franklin: The Tamed Womanizer
Archives for 2015
Music as Political Tactic to Unify an Empire
As a monumental ruler, Charlemagne is largely remembered as the first Holy Roman Emperor who advocated Christianity and expanded the education system within his realm. As he was engaged in his ambitious military tactics and conquests while still king of the Franks, Charlemagne strategically sought to maintain his realm with a politically unified culture. Most prominent was his … [Read more...] about Music as Political Tactic to Unify an Empire
Unweaving Africa: Exploring Voodooism
One mention of the word Voodoo and images of human sacrifice, devil worship, sorcery or perhaps the highly popularized voodoo dolls with needles sticking out of them come rushing to your mind. And who could blame you when all across the media, Voodoo has become synonymous with evil and violence? In truth, Voodoism is more than just some cultic practice. Thought by some to be … [Read more...] about Unweaving Africa: Exploring Voodooism
Stateless: Exploring the Political Dynamics of Cultural, Ethnic, and Religious Minorities Around the World This Week’s Focus–The Rohingya
The Rohingya are a minority group living in the Rakhine State of western Myanmar (or Burma). Rakhine, previously known as “Arakan” is one of the 21 administrative divisions of the country of Myanmar. The Rohingya are particularly concentrated in the northern part of the Rakhine State, where they make up the vast majority of the population. Unlike 80% of the total … [Read more...] about Stateless: Exploring the Political Dynamics of Cultural, Ethnic, and Religious Minorities Around the World This Week’s Focus–The Rohingya
Western Classical Music Tradition: A Transferable Pacifier
With the formation of Israel and its declaration as a sovereign nation on May 14th 1948, open warfare between Israel and Arab forces has been a central issue and has continuously arisen. In particular, conflict between the Palestinians of the Palestine Liberation Organization and Israel led to increasing hostility between the residing Arabs and Israelis. As Palestinians … [Read more...] about Western Classical Music Tradition: A Transferable Pacifier