During World War I, an unlikely player emerged in the effort to cut off supplies to Germany – the customs office in Boston. This surprising development shows how the war reached far beyond the battlefields of Europe to impact ports and trade routes around the world. Let’s explore how Boston customs officials found themselves on…
The Unlikely Friendship Amid War In the midst of World War I’s horrors, an extraordinary event took place that showed the humanity of soldiers on both sides. During Christmas of 1914, British and German troops put down their weapons and engaged in an unexpected activity—playing football together in no man’s land. This remarkable occurrence, known…
In 1914, as World War I erupted across Europe, the British Royal Navy’s Grand Fleet took up its war stations in the North Sea. While these naval patrols were primarily focused on containing the German High Seas Fleet, they had some surprising ripple effects that reached to the hallowed halls of Oxford University. This article…
In the midst of the chaos and upheaval of World War I, an unexpected story emerges from an unlikely place – the Delhi University Library. While the world was engulfed in conflict, this academic institution implemented a unique overdue book policy that offers a fascinating glimpse into life on the home front during wartime. Let’s…
In the shadows of history, there are often unsung heroes whose stories deserve to be told. Two such heroines are Fanica Obid and Ljudmila Rutar, brave Slovenian women who fought against fascism in the early 20th century. Their courage and determination in the face of oppression inspire us all. Let’s dive into their remarkable lives…
The Power of Words in World War I World War I was a time of great suffering and horror. Millions of soldiers fought and died in muddy trenches, and many who survived were left with deep emotional scars. During this dark time, some soldiers turned to poetry to express their experiences. Two of the most…
The French Revolution of 1789 sent shockwaves across Europe, and Switzerland was no exception. As France’s neighbor, Switzerland was caught in the crossfire of revolutionary ideals and military occupation. This tumultuous period would forever change the political, social, and economic landscape of the Swiss Confederation. In this article, we’ll explore how the French Revolution transformed…
The Rise of Freemasonry in 18th Century France In the years leading up to the French Revolution, a secret society was quietly gaining influence across France. Freemasonry, with its mysterious rituals and promise of enlightenment, attracted thousands of members from all walks of life. Between 1732 and 1793, 800 and 900 Masonic lodges were founded…
The Hidden History of Civilian Internment In the aftermath of World War I, a little-known chapter of history unfolded in the Northern Adriatic region. As Italy consolidated its control over newly acquired territories, hundreds of civilians found themselves forcibly removed from their homes and interned in remote locations. Among these internees were dozens of women…
The Rise of Fascism and Religious Intolerance In the aftermath of World War I, Italy experienced significant political and social upheaval. The rise of Fascism under Benito Mussolini brought about a new era of nationalism and authoritarianism. While the Fascist regime initially focused on consolidating power and promoting Italian culture, it soon turned its attention…