Kyoto, Japan — Katsushi Horikawa experiences a unique connection with the gods as he rides atop the massive floats during the historic procession in Japan’s Gion Matsuri festival. This festival, celebrated throughout July in Kyoto, was established over a millennium ago as a ritual to ward off epidemics. Horikawa states that the moments on the...
Category: Culture
The World Cup Through New Lenses
I am not attending the World Cup. Likely, neither are you. Despite its unprecedented scale—with more countries, matches, and high ticket prices—most of us are not there physically. Like many, I watch on television. My country, Ireland, did not qualify, reducing my interest, but millions watch with enthusiasm. The number of attendees, while large, pales...
The Declaration of Independence: A Cornerstone of American Freedom
The Declaration of Independence holds a special place in American history. Museum of the American Revolution CEO Will Cain and President Dr. Scott Stephenson discuss its significance as a foundational document of the nation. Stephenson highlights its influence across more than 100 countries. He states that the Declaration serves as a unifying creed for America,...
College Campuses and Academic Insularity
College campuses often face criticism for being insular environments. This notion was highlighted when anthropologists reacted strongly to a report. The report was entitled, “Report on the State of Scholarship in the Humanities and the Humanistic Social Sciences.” It was commissioned by Vanderbilt University and Washington University in St. Louis. The report accused anthropology as...
Cuban Dissident Artist Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara Arrives in Miami
Famous Cuban dissident artist and musician Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara arrived in Miami on Saturday after being released from a five-year prison sentence. His release came with the condition that he leave Cuba. Alcántara, who is 38, was warmly welcomed at the airport by a cheering crowd. Many captured the moment on their phones, and...
After 246 Years, Pvt. John Pumphrey is Unknown No More
After 246 years, Pvt. John Pumphrey is unknown no more. Through DNA testing and traditional sleuthing, a Maryland teenager who perished in one of the last battles of the American Revolution can now be recognized in history. This revelation comes as the nation he fought for nears its 250th birthday. “There was a sense of...
Evolving Missions of Foundations
The original missions of foundations can age and sometimes lose relevance after their founding donors pass away. The initiatives initially championed may not remain suitable or effective as the world changes and evolves. One recent example occurred when Bill Gates decided to use his foundation’s entire resources by 2045. This move is an exception among...
The Role of Conspiracy Theories in America’s Founding
Conspiracy theories might appear as a contemporary issue, yet they have been interwoven into America’s history since its inception. On Judy Woodruff’s podcast, “In Pursuit of Happiness,” journalist and author Jesse Walker discusses how conspiracy thinking influenced the American Revolution. Walker’s insights reveal that such theories were not only prevalent but also shaped significant actions...
Capturing the Thrill of the Running of the Bulls
Miguel Osés, a photographer based in Pamplona, Spain, shares insights about his work with The Associated Press during the San Fermín festival. His focus is on capturing the essence of the Running of the Bulls, an iconic event held annually in Pamplona. Why This Photo Stands Out The photograph in question was taken at the...
Monk’s Journey of Peace: Pannakara’s Remarkable Walk and Vision
Pannakara, a dedicated monk at the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth, displays unwavering determination. Chien Le, temple secretary, praises his resolute nature, capable of handling obstacles effectively. Earlier this year, Pannakara led the meditative Walk for Peace, alongside monks and his rescue dog, Aloka, which spanned 2,300 miles from Fort Worth to...









