Rats, Racks, and Rippers: Torture Devices of the Middle Ages

Torture is a word we hear a lot lately.  How do we define it? Who deserves it? Where is the line drawn?

I personally do not advocate any type of cruelty during interrogation or punishment… not only because it is primitive but also because it is generally ineffective.   That said, today’s oft mentioned “water-boarding” is NOTHING compared to what the accused endured during medieval times.  Here are just a few of the nasty nasties that will hopefully remain as a dark stain on humanity’s uncivilized {more. . .)

Codex Gigas: The Devil’s Bible

In the early 13th century, a book came into existence that mystifies the literary and theological worlds to this day. Not much is known about this manuscript called the Codex Gigas (Giant Book).  Many legends and myths have grown around its origins.  That this book has created so much speculation is not shocking.  The very appearance and content of the Codex, also called The Devil’s Bible,  are as mysterious as the quandary of its creation.  It holds the distinction of having once been regarded as {more. . .)

Vlad the Hungarian? The Romanian/Hungarian vampire debate

Through the centuries, debate has been raging about who can lay claim to the origins of the legendary vampire.  Many claim that it is the Romanian people who have sole claim to the title.  Others say that it is Hungarian mythology that gave birth to the blood sucking creatures that still haunt our dreams.

Popular belief tends to shift most of the ownership to Romania.  However, in the eyes of my Hungarian relatives, vampires were strictly non fiction.  These stories had {more. . .)

History of April Fool’s Day

Each year, April 1st rolls around and causes a mix of emotions.  Pranksters plan their attack weeks in advance, hoping to catch unaware those of us gullible enough to believe anything on this day.  People like me go on high alert…prepared for anything fishy that may come our way, and remain skeptical of all news until 11:59pm.

But, where the heck did April Fool’s Day come from?  Why do so many cultures around the globe celebrate this unofficial holiday?  No one really knows for certain, {more. . .)

Today is The Day of Blood

How’s that for a gruesome yet intriguing title?  And believe it or not, it’s completely true.  March 24 was designated as The Day of Blood for worshipers of the Goddess Cybele.

The cult of Cybele is said to have originated in Asia Minor.  As a deity connected to the concerns of women, as a healer, and as a protector from enemies, Cybele was often associated with Rhea, mother of Zeus and Demeter.  Ancient Greeks were initially against the practice of Cybele worship  However, after being {more. . .)

Unearthed Photo Allegedly Shows Putin Spying on Reagan

Toward the end of the Cold War, Reagan visited Moscow with Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev.  His photographer, Pete Souza, snapped pictures during the visit, while Reagan made his way around Red Square.  Below is one of the photos he took.

Reagan Greeting Young Child in Moscow.

Now, if you look closely at the tourist directly behind the young boy, he bears a striking resemblance to none other than Russian Prime Minister, Vladimir Putin.

In his early days, Souza alleges, Putin worked for the KGB, {more. . .)

The Mysterious St. Patrick

Once again St. Patrick’s Day is upon us.  For most, it is a day of celebration, particularly if you are of Irish heritage.  Even if you aren’t, no one will fault you for fibbing a bit on this day, if only to earn a free kiss or two.  Revelers will drink green beer, wear green clothes, and in places like Chicago, even entire rivers will be turned green for the holiday.  Parades will be held, songs will be sung, and the Irish will be royalty, {more. . .)