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There have been raids and robberies on galleries, museums and private states for centuries. The aim? To steal timeless masterpieces worth thousands, if not millions. Often unsellable, the thieves range from avid art enthusiasts to opportunists. It has been reported that raids on British galleries of art works and antiques total up to about £500m [...]

Eighteen is a special time in a person’s life.  In most countries, 18-years-old is when an individual is legally considered an adult and can assume control over their actions and decisions.  As we move into the 21st century, the age of maturity has risen.  A 15-year-old boy living in the Middle Ages had greater responsibilities [...]

The traditional pre-marriage event to say farewell to bachelorhood is, nowadays, an excuse to have a raucous party. This was not always the case. There was greater significance in the event. In Spartan times it was a chance for the groom-to-be to pledge his continued allegiance to his comrades. In the 1800’s it was a [...]

The term Internet meme is used to describe a concept that spreads via the Internet.  The idea may take the form of a video, picture, website, phrase or just a word.  The meme will move from person to person via social networking websites, blogs, news sources and other web-based services.  Internet memes can spread rapidly, [...]

Before people were able to access information by way of the Internet, written text was the primary resource for knowledge.  The history of books has been linked to political and economical contingencies, as well as the history of ideas and religion.  In the ancient world, humans developed writings as a desire to create a lasting [...]

Ireland’s long history is riddled with ancient mythology and folklore. Ireland’s ancient societies, the Druids and the Celtics, believed in the power of magic and many of these beliefs spread to modern day legends told again and again across the country. Stories of warriors with all the knowledge of the world, fairies playing pranks on [...]

When it comes time for the Olympics, many people take the time to watch athletes compete in some of their favorite sports. No matter if it’s the winter or summer Olympics, people always find time to tune in to watch and cheer. In fact, 2010’s Vancouver Winter Olympics pulled in 190 million viewers across the [...]

The first sword appeared during the Bronze Age.  It was made of copper and was uncovered at the Harappan sites in present-day Pakistan.  By the Middle Ages iron and steel swords were being mass produced and used in battle.  Soldiers were trained in swordsmanship and prepared for combat.  It was before the era of guns [...]

Halloween is one of the creepiest times of the year.  The holiday was molded from ancient Celtic practices, religious rituals, and European folk traditions.  Halloween is a time for celebration, candy, and ghostly superstition.  The day has long been thought of a time when the dead come alive and watch over the land.  These spirits [...]

With one of the world’s most unique environments and ecosystems, is it any wonder that Australia is full of strange and mythical creatures?  While they may not be as famous as their European or Asian counterparts, Australia has their fare share of cryptids, creatures from folklore, and mythological beasts.  Many are derived from Aboriginal culture [...]