Daily Content Archive
(as of Friday, July 19, 2019)| Word of the Day | |||||||
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| Article of the Day | |
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 Naming TabooIn China, the naming taboo is a cultural taboo against speaking or writing the given names of exalted persons. In the past, the taboo especially discouraged the use of the emperor's given name and those of his ancestors. For example, during the Qin dynasty, Qin Shi Huang's given name Zheng was avoided, and the first month of the year, "Zheng Yue," was renamed "Duan Yue." In 1777, lexicographer Wang Xihou wrote the full name of the Qianlong emperor in his dictionary. What was his punishment? More... | |
| This Day in History | |
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 France Declares War on Prussia (1870)The Franco-Prussian War was the outcome of the progressive unification of German states after the Napoleonic Wars. Events came to a head when the Spanish throne was offered to a member of the Prussian Hohenzollern family, raising the possibility of a Prussian-Spanish alliance against France. The French government demanded assurances that no member of the Hohenzollern family would ever rule Spain and declared war when it was refused. What famously insulting telegram prompted France's declaration? More... | |
| Today's Birthday | |
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 Charles Horace Mayo (1865)Mayo was a gifted surgeon who, with his father, brother, and several other doctors, founded the world-renowned non-profit medical center in Minnesota that would become the Mayo Clinic. In addition to seeing patients, Mayo served as the health officer of Rochester, Minnesota, for many years and also taught medical students. He originated modern procedures in neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery and reduced the death rate in goiter operations. What factor contributed to his early surgical success? More... | |
| Quotation of the Day | |
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 Love is influenced by no consideration, recognizes no restraints of reason, and is of the same nature as death, that assails alike the lofty palaces of kings and the humble cabins of shepherds; and when it takes entire possession of a heart, the first thing it does is to banish fear and shame from it.Miguel de Cervantes (1547-1616) | |
| Today's Holiday | |
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 Folkmoot (2020)This two-week festival is held in the mountains at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in western North Carolina. It features more than 350 folk musicians and dancers from countries as diverse as Ecuador, Italy, Malaysia, Turkey, Peru, Israel, Slovenia, China, and the Philippines. Events include a Parade of Nations, a bazaar with local and regional artisans and food vendors, a special children's program, and performances by the folk dancers and musicians. Many of the events take place in the nearby town of Waynesville. More... | |