In the intricate tale of the internet’s creation, it wasn’t just one individual but a collective effort of brilliant minds and pivotal moments that brought it to life. Born from the high-stakes rivalry of the Cold War, the internet’s origins trace back to the intense technological race between the United […]
Psychiatry’s Dark History Of Lobotomies
In November 1941, Rosemary Kennedy, the older sister of future president John F. Kennedy, underwent a controversial procedure at George Washington University School of Medicine that irreversibly altered her life. This article explores the origins of this treatment and its impact on mental health practices, shedding light on its disturbing […]
The Historical Roots of The Times Square Ball Drop
When Adolph Ochs took over the reins of the New York Times in 1896, he had grand ambitions. Cutting down the paper’s price, he bolstered its readership and relocated to an architectural marvel in what would soon become Times Square. This iconic spot became the backdrop for a unique New […]
The Origins of New York’s Moniker “The Big Apple”
In the intriguing history of New York City’s nickname “The Big Apple,” traces can be found as far back as 1909. Edward Martin’s novel, The Wayfarer, paints a metaphorical image of the city, portraying it as a voracious metropolis consuming an outsize portion of the country’s resources. However, it wasn’t […]
Intimacy and Cultural Shifts among Black South Africans
Before colonial influences took hold in the 1700s, the perceptions of intimacy and morality among Black South Africans were notably distinct. Convening Black Intimacy, a comprehensive new book meticulously examines the complex dynamics of Christianity, gender, and traditional marriage and sexual practices in South Africa during the late eighteenth and […]
The Genuine History of Chastity Belts
When one thinks of medieval times, gallant knights, spirited horses, jesters, and fair maidens often come to mind. And of course, the iconic chastity belts supposedly worn by maidens to maintain their purity. But, dear readers of Africa Nova, let’s set the record straight: historical evidence suggests these belts weren’t […]
The Link Between Birth Control and Societal Shifts
In the centuries-long quest to prevent pregnancy, humans have employed a range of intriguing and occasionally perilous methods. From unconventional barrier devices and pungent spermicides to the age-old practice of coitus interruptus, the fascinating history of birth control offers a captivating glimpse into the ingenuity and resourcefulness of our ancestors. […]
Untold Deceit With The Flight 108 Bombing
In a stunning turn of events, the history of Canada was marked by a tragic incident in 1949. Flight 108 of Canadian Pacific Air Lines, a seemingly routine journey, turned into a devastating disaster, leaving no survivors. What began as a seemingly mysterious murder soon unveiled a complex web of […]
Origins of the Seven-Day Week and Day Names
Establishing the Seven-Day Week The Babylonians, known for their advanced astronomical observations, tied their lunar months to a seven-day week, aligning with critical lunar phases. This innovative connection between celestial events and temporal organization highlighted their sophisticated understanding of time and astronomy, setting the foundation for the seven-day week we […]