Benjamin Franklin and Bifocals: A Sight for Sore Eyes
Benjamin Franklin invented bifocals in the 1780s as his vision worsened so he could continue to read and learn French – and perhaps continue to woo French ladies.
French Revolution Political Cartoons: Telling Truth to Power
The French Revolution was, without hyperbole, a mad time. So, it should come as no surprise that the political cartoons that came out of the French Revolution were equally insane.
Philadelphia Was Important in Colonial America for More Than the Declaration
Philadelphia became an important part of colonial America for its rich port, great science and arts, and the Declaration of Independence.
Benjamin Franklin, Religion, and His Search for Moral Certainty
What exactly Benjamin Franklin thought of religion has become a topic of hot debate since his death in 1790. Known largely for his scientific and diplomatic exploits, Franklin was nonetheless a man of his time. Religion played a much bigger part in eighteenth-century society and, save for few philosophers like Thomas Jefferson, served as the…
What Were the Causes of the Haitian Revolution? A Lot of Things…
There were many causes of the Haitian Revolution, and they looked different based on peoples’ circumstances and, well, skin color.
The Green Mountain Boys: Vermont’s Freedom Fighters
Whether you call them patriots or vigilantes, the Green Mountain Boys played an interesting role in the early history of America and Vermont.
American Revolution Political Cartoons: A Picture Says a Thousand Words
American Revolution political cartoons gives us some fascinating insight into how people perceived the war. Let’s examine a few of them!
Bourdaloue: The Man, the Myth, the Chamber Pot
There have been many a bourdaloue throughout history, from a preacher, to a chamber pot, to a pastry. How in the world did that happen?
The Dutch Slave Trade: A History of the “Peculiar Institution”
The Dutch slave trade lasted for centuries and displaced millions of people. Keep reading to learn how it happened, and why.
George Washington Quotes on the Revolutionary War: The Man, the Myth
George Washington had a lot of great quotes on the Revolutionary War. Let’s see what we can learn from them about the man and the legend.