#Wright Brothers Monument

[nocternalrandomness]

Wright Brothers National Memorial

[found-in-nomadland]

Wright Brothers National Memorial

Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina

✈️

[laomelettedufromage]

Probably a very niche post but being from the western Ohio area is making fun of North Carolina’s “first in flight” motto and then having people look you straight in the eye and say the Wright Brothers were from North Carolina with their whole chests, making you briefly wonder if your whole life was a lie

[pureamericanism]

One of the great tragedies of the Rust Belt* is that it did not define itself as a distinct cultural region until well after its great era of flourishing was over. For the century from about 1850-1950, this area was not merely the industrial heart of the nation, but also its cultural center. And yet the inhabitants of the area, if they thought of themselves as having a regional identity at all, it was as inhabitants of the generic ‘north’. Its status as a center of cultural innovation was pooh-poohed by the fact that the nation’s political and intellectual elite was, even as it is today, strongly based to the coastal northeast, and this Eurocentric elite had a very different set of priorities than the cultural avant-garde of the as-yet-unRusted-Belt. This area produced little in the way of ‘high art’ in the expected form of novels, symphonies, and oil paintings. But what it did produce...

In 1900, Chicago was the occult capital of the nation, a hotbed of wild theorizing and underground publishing of all manner of Theosophical weirdness. Meanwhile, Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright were producing the first wholly indigenous tradition of monumental architecture, setting a pattern for all of urban modernity. The Dayton, Ohio based Wright brothers - often abused in pop-historiography as some sort of rude mechanicals - were slowly and methodically systematizing the science of aerodynamics in preparation for the first ever instance of heaver-than-air flight in human history, with world-shaking consequences. And up in Detroit, Henry Ford was not merely revolutionizing transportation and manufacturing, but setting a standard for industrial relations that would create an unbelievably influential model for decades to come. It might sound strange to modern ears to cite Henry Ford as a bleeding-edge figure, but Fordism served as an inspiration to both Bolsheviks and Fascists, as well as to domestic New Dealers, while simultaneously pleasing and alarming old-fashioned Anglo liberals. The Long 20th Century is a series of footnotes to the Rust Belt Golden Age.

As can be seen from this too-brief summary of the luminaries of the epoch, it was a deeply unique Golden Age, characterized by cultural traits all its own. Technical prowess, utopian visions, and thorough systematization were its characteristics, as was a sense that a lone individual or small group could, through sheer innovative genius, change the world. While the archetype of the Mad Scientist is based on Mitteleuropean models, it was here in Mittelamerika that it achieved its apotheosis. The definitive cultural history of this region and era has yet to be written**, which just shows how underappreciated the underlying unity still is, but it in a large part contributed to the dynamic optimism that we all now take for granted as distinctively ‘American.’ But as the area felt the collapse of the long bubble economy that funded its flourishing, and its brightest sons and daughters fled west to contribute to the explosion of creativity along the Pacific slope that is now likewise collapsing, it finally awakened to a sense of unity that had previously been hidden by arbitrary State boundaries.

That, at some point, this area will again be the center of some sort of vigorous culture seems an inevitability of human geography, but will it again share the same features of optimism and technical prowess, or were those mere incidental features of a bunch of people with a Protestant work ethic suddenly getting access to the tremendous wealth provided by a vast agricultural base + fossil fuels? Man alive, I don’t have the slightest clue, but I hope that there is some sort of afterlife or metempsychosis so I can find out.

* here roughly defined as the geographical area constrained by an irregular polygon whose points are Syracuse, Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, St. Louis, Davenport, Green Bay, and Flint.

** unless it has and i’m just ignorant of it, in which case please let me know so i can rest easy that i don’t need to do any work and can just sit down and read the thing. honestly, even tangentially related book recommendations are appreciated.

[airwingaviation001]

10 Fascinating Facts About Aviation You Didn't Know

Aviation has always been a field filled with wonder and discovery. From the early days of flight to the advanced technology we see today, aviation continues to captivate our imagination. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast, a frequent flyer, or someone simply interested in how airplanes work, there are many fascinating facts that might surprise you. In this blog post, we'll explore ten intriguing facts about aviation, shedding light on the remarkable history, technology, and people behind the scenes.

1. The Wright Brothers' Historic Flight

Most people know that Orville and Wilbur Wright made the first powered flight in 1903, but what many don’t realize is that it lasted only 12 seconds and covered just 120 feet. This monumental achievement in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, was the beginning of human flight, paving the way for the aviation industry as we know it today.

2. The Largest Passenger Aircraft

The Airbus A380 holds the title of the largest passenger aircraft in the world. It can carry up to 850 passengers in an all-economy configuration and typically features two full-length passenger decks. Its massive size and advanced technology make it a marvel of modern engineering, demonstrating just how far aviation has come since the Wright brothers’ era.

3. The World’s First Commercial Flight

The world’s first commercial airline flight took place on January 1, 1914. The St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Line flew a route across Tampa Bay, Florida, with a fare of $5, which is equivalent to about $150 today. This flight marked the beginning of a new era in transportation, setting the stage for commercial aviation to become a global phenomenon.

4. Air Traffic Control

The concept of air traffic control was born in the 1920s. The first air traffic control tower was established at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport in 1930. Today, air traffic controllers play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel, managing thousands of flights daily across the globe.

5. The Invention of the Black Box

The black box, formally known as the flight data recorder (FDR) and cockpit voice recorder (CVR), was invented in the 1950s. This device records critical flight information and cockpit conversations, helping investigators understand the causes of accidents. Interestingly, the black box is not actually black; it’s bright orange to make it easier to locate after an incident.

6. Aviation Fuel Efficiency

Modern aircraft are much more fuel-efficient than their predecessors. For instance, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is designed to use 20% less fuel than older models. This improvement is achieved through advanced materials and technologies that optimize aerodynamics and reduce weight. As the aviation industry continues to innovate, we can expect even more significant advancements in fuel efficiency.

7. The Role of Flight Attendants

Flight attendants are often seen as the friendly faces of an airline, but their job goes far beyond serving snacks and drinks. They are trained to handle emergencies, provide first aid, and ensure passenger safety. Their role is vital, as they are the first line of defense in ensuring that flights operate smoothly and safely.

8. Airplanes Are Equipped to Fly Without Pilots

While it might sound like science fiction, many modern airplanes have sophisticated autopilot systems that can fly the aircraft without human intervention. These systems can handle everything from takeoff to landing, though pilots remain crucial for monitoring and controlling the aircraft. The advancements in automation have made air travel safer and more efficient.

9. The Effect of Weather on Aviation

Weather plays a significant role in aviation safety and operations. Pilots must be aware of various weather conditions, such as turbulence, thunderstorms, and fog. For example, thunderstorms can create severe turbulence and lightning hazards, leading to flight delays or diversions. Understanding weather patterns is an essential skill for pilots and air traffic controllers alike.

10. The Future of Aviation

The future of aviation is promising, with advancements in technology leading to the development of electric and hybrid aircraft. Companies are investing in research and development to create eco-friendly planes that reduce carbon emissions. As global awareness of climate change grows, the aviation industry is working to adapt and innovate to meet environmental challenges.

Conclusion

Aviation is a field rich with history, innovation, and incredible achievements. From the first powered flight to the complexities of modern air travel, the evolution of aviation has been nothing short of extraordinary. At Airwing Aviation Academy, we believe in sharing this passion for aviation with aspiring pilots and aviation professionals. By providing comprehensive training and education, we aim to inspire the next generation of aviators.

Whether you're looking to become a pilot, a flight attendant, or simply interested in learning more about the aviation industry, we invite you to explore the possibilities. With our expert instructors and state-of-the-art facilities, the Aviation Academy in Udaipur is the perfect place to launch your career in aviation.

Understanding these fascinating facts about aviation can enhance your appreciation for this remarkable industry. As we look to the future, it’s exciting to think about what new discoveries await us in the world of flight.

[eastcoastboyos]

It's Hatteras, not Hatteras

Drive day number 3 is brought to you by Blake.

As the nights go by, the accommodations have fewer and fewer beds, and we become cozier by the day. Come morning, The hotel provides a hot Breakfast of folded eggs with american cheese, meat circles and coffee as thick as the air. Derek ate his breakfast in a daze, and we hit the road with full bellies and high hopes.

A brief stop into traders J's for road snacks is an air conditioned paradise. Walking out with a heavy bag of groceries makes us feel like kings. We are kids in a candy store, swapping treasures in the haven of the van.

Early on we pass large coal mounds and massive cranes as we near the Atlantic. Joel and Derek debate the psychologic vs physiologic aspects of the massive underwater tunnel transporting us beneath the bay.

Crossing into north Carolina we see a cyber truck, and are enthralled at the heavily innuendoed road signs. We opt out of getting crabs from dirty dick's. You're welcome ladies.

The southern sun beats down all around, and we are eternally grateful for the AC of our zippy minivan. Roadside monster truck tracks and impressive mini golf courses beckon us to challenge the heat, but level heads prevail until unskippable history spurs us to embrace the sun. The Wright brothers national monument consists of a beautiful open field leading to a manicured hill and spire. At $10 a head, we are forced to rival the brothers in their imagination, say hello to the park employee, and promptly turn around and skip it.

Cornfields and acreages give way to sand dunes and stilted houses. We drive over the long and curved Bonner bridge (heh) leading us to pea island (hehe).

There are many turnoffs to enjoy the national treasure of the outer banks, all of which are sudden and unexpected, leaving us to admire the ocean from a distance until at long last we reach our campsite. Tent be damned, we stroll to the beach and firmly plant ourselves on the sand. Armed with our own delicatessen, we rip the bread apart, Dylan and Derek doling out meat cheese and greens. Dinner is dry and delicious. Joel asks us to let him die happily on the coast, and Allen admires the mussels percolating through the surf.

Eventually the tent is set up with tired gutso, using pieces salvaged from Dylans duffel, and lashed to the roots of the bushes that surround us. Laughs are had over the picnic bench, until a tick frightens us into the tent. The stars beam as Derek reads us lullabies of poop and stool, and the cicadas chirp their final goodnight.

(Blake)

[nebris]

Katharine Wright, often overshadowed by her famous brothers Orville and Wilbur, played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the Wright Brothers' historic achievements in aviation. Her contributions, though sometimes overlooked, were instrumental in shaping the course of history.

She provided crucial financial support to her brothers' endeavors. She managed the household affairs, allowing Wilbur and Orville to focus on their experiments and research. She even took on additional work to supplement their income, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to their vision.

Beyond financial assistance, Katharine offered unwavering emotional and moral support to her brothers. She believed wholeheartedly in their ambitions, encouraging them during moments of doubt and celebrating their triumphs. Her belief in their abilities bolstered their confidence and determination, essential qualities for tackling the monumental challenges they faced.

Katharine possessed a keen intellect and a sharp understanding of business and public relations. She provided strategic advice to her brothers, guiding them in their interactions with investors, government officials, and the media. Her diplomatic skills and foresight helped navigate the complexities of the aviation industry, paving the way for the Wright Brothers' success.

She also took on the role of public relations manager for the Wright Brothers, actively promoting their achievements and garnering support for their endeavors. She engaged with #journalists, #politicians, and influential figures, effectively shaping the public perception of her brothers' work. Her advocacy efforts helped garner widespread recognition and acclaim for the Wright Brothers' groundbreaking achievements.

Katharine herself was well-educated and intellectually curious. She shared her knowledge and insights with her brothers, enriching their understanding of various subjects relevant to their work, including #aerodynamics and #engineering principles.

Her intellectual contributions complemented her brothers' technical expertise, resulting in a more holistic approach to their research and experimentation.

[claireinnc]

The Wright Brothers' Museum

Our first day and it had to be spent at this special place - The Wright Brothers' Museum. We cycled to the place, which was a simple five mile cycle. It was a scorching day as we made our way up to the monument. This stands at the top of the hill that the brothers used to launch their early flights - not the successful ones though. They were actually launched from the flat ground.

We walked along the ground where the first flight occurred. The stone boulders show the distance that each flight made. The third flight was much longer than the first two. We didn't walk out to the last one, but it was great to just stand in the place that history was made.

It's remarkable to think of how this piece of history impacted the world. My love of travel does not include a love of flying, nevertheless without it, I would never have been able to see the wonderful sights in all the countries I've visited. The determination, hard work, creativity and vision of the two brothers has been an inspiration to so many and the museum brings it to life.

[katietrekks]

June 8, 2021

Wright Brothers National Monument Kill Devils Hill, North Carolina 1.98 miles 77 ft. Elevation Gain

More of not literal "hiking" but historic walks around more national historic parks that are still pretty scenic.

[quantumslipstream]

A Little Pig Goes A Long Way... Babe the pig at Wright Brothers Monument, Kitty Hawk, NC

[pagebypagereviews]

The 25 Best Nonfiction Books of All Time Nonfiction books have the profound ability to change the way we see the world, educate us on the intricacies of reality, and inspire us with true stories of heroism, perseverance, and innovation. From biographies and memoirs to essays and historical accounts, the realm of nonfiction encompasses a vast array of genres. Compiling a list of the 25 best nonfiction books of all time is no small feat, given the sheer volume and diversity of important works. However, certain titles have risen to the top, distinguished by their impact, timeless relevance, and the universal acclaim they have garnered. Here, we explore these monumental works that offer invaluable insights into the human condition, society, and the natural world. 1. "The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank Perhaps one of the most poignant accounts of World War II, Anne Frank's diary offers a heart-wrenching, personal insight into the lives of Jews hiding from the Nazis in Amsterdam. It's a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable horror. 2. "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" by Yuval Noah Harari Yuval Noah Harari's sweeping narrative combines history, science, and philosophy to explore how Homo sapiens came to dominate the world. It's a thought-provoking journey through the history of humanity, challenging our understanding of ourselves and our society. 3. "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote Truman Capote's masterful blend of journalism and storytelling chronicles the brutal murder of a family in Kansas and the subsequent investigation. It's a pioneering work of the true crime genre, exploring the psychological depth of crime and its impact on a community. 4. "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot This book tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, whose cells were taken without her knowledge in 1951 and became one of the most important tools in medicine. It's a compelling exploration of ethics, race, and the intersection of science and personal narrative. 5. "A Brief History of Time" by Stephen Hawking Stephen Hawking's exploration of the universe's origins, structure, and future is a landmark in scientific literature. It makes complex concepts in physics accessible to the general reader, expanding our understanding of time, space, and our place in the universe. 6. "The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels" by Jon Meacham Jon Meacham offers a timely examination of the American soul, looking at historical moments when hope overcame division and fear. It's an inspiring reminder of the country's enduring capacity for progress and unity. 7. "The Wright Brothers" by David McCullough This biography of Wilbur and Orville Wright by David McCullough brings to life the story of two brothers who changed history through their invention of the airplane. It's a testament to the power of innovation, perseverance, and vision. 8. "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson Rachel Carson's groundbreaking work launched the environmental movement by exposing the dangers of pesticides to wildlife and human health. It's a crucial read for understanding the importance of ecological conservation and the impact of human activity on the natural world. 9. "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Malcolm X and Alex Haley This autobiography, told to Alex Haley, details the life and evolution of one of America's most influential civil rights leaders. It's a powerful account of transformation, resilience, and the fight against racial injustice. 10. "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared Diamond Jared Diamond's exploration of how environmental and geographical factors have shaped the modern world is a fascinating read. It challenges the notion of European superiority and offers a comprehensive explanation for the unequal distribution of wealth and power. 11. "The Year of Magical Thinking" by Joan Didion In this deeply personal memoir, Joan Didion reflects on the year following the sudden death of her husband.

It's a poignant exploration of grief, memory, and the power of love. 12. "Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln" by Doris Kearns Goodwin Doris Kearns Goodwin's account of Abraham Lincoln's leadership during one of America's most tumultuous periods is both a biography and a study in political strategy. It highlights Lincoln's ability to unite his adversaries and steer the country through the Civil War. 13. "The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business" by Charles Duhigg Charles Duhigg's examination of habit formation combines psychology, neuroscience, and real-world examples to explain how habits shape our lives and how we can change them. It's an insightful read for anyone looking to transform their life or understand human behavior. 14. "The Glass Castle" by Jeannette Walls Jeannette Walls' memoir recounts her unconventional, poverty-stricken upbringing and her journey to success. It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of forgiveness. 15. "Outliers: The Story of Success" by Malcolm Gladwell Malcolm Gladwell's exploration of what makes high-achievers different challenges our perceptions of success. It examines the factors that contribute to high levels of success, including culture, family, and idiosyncratic opportunities. 16. "Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor E. Frankl Viktor E. Frankl's memoir of his time in Nazi concentration camps is a profound meditation on finding purpose in life, even in the most horrific circumstances. It's a philosophical and psychological exploration of the human will to survive. 17. "The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness" by Michelle Alexander Michelle Alexander's book is a critical examination of the U.S. criminal justice system and its role in perpetuating racial inequality. It's an essential read for understanding the modern form of racial segregation in America. 18. "Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer Jon Krakauer's account of Christopher McCandless's journey into the Alaskan wilderness is a compelling narrative of adventure, idealism, and the tragic consequences of isolation from society. It's a meditation on the allure of the wilderness and the search for meaning. 19. "The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals

[night-mare-fuel]

Name: Damon Logano

Age: 29

Gender: Male

Sexuality: Gay

Race: Human

Appearance: Short black hair, dark green eyes, average height and build, usually wears dark eyeliner, has several piercings.

FC: Michael Christopher Bolten (specifically from his appearance on Criminal Minds)

Personality: Sarcastic, efficient, charismatic, funny, intelligent, great at social engineering, explosive temper that he tries hard to keep in check, morbidly creative with his threats and insults, driven, strong sense of justice, outgoing, private.

Powers/Abilities: After the incident with Scarecrow, he became mostly immune to fear toxin, and developed shadowmancy, the ability to create illusions and/or weapons out of shadows. He also has heightened senses and insight into the fears of those around him.

Flaws/Weaknesses: Human mortality, anger management, doesn’t think highly of himself outside of what he can do for others.

Nationality: American

Languages: English

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Sociology

Style: Goth/punk outside of work, but he dresses much snappier while on the clock, especially when attending big events or press conferences. Either way, he wears a lot of black, gray, and purple.

Profession: publicist for Bruce Wayne (v; main 1), antihero known as Shadowhaunt (v; main 2), Scarecrow’s right hand man (v; villain arc)

Family: Grayson Logano (father, estranged), Emily Logano neé Price (mother, deceased), Addy Wright-Logano (stepmother, estranged), Drake Logano (younger brother), Mina Logano-Wright (younger half-sister)

Backstory:

Damon was born in Ireland to Grayson and Emily Logano, a promising couple of young engineers who’d just gotten married a year prior. Four years later, Drake was born, and three years after that, the family moved to Gotham, New York, as Grayson had managed to land a high paying job at Wayne Enterprises. It was a tough adjustment, but they got through it as a family. Emily, however, fell ill not long afterward, and passed away when Damon was only thirteen.

To the shock and dismay of his sons, Grayson barely waited a month after the funeral to remarry, causing a rift between him and Damon. Said rift only grew bigger when Damon found out that his new stepmother had been his father’s longtime mistress, and that he was only marrying her now because she was pregnant with his daughter. Tensions ran high, especially with Damon about to start high school. Neither of the boys were on good terms with their father, nor were they particularly fond of their stepmother, but Damon at least tried to be a good big brother when Mina was born. She was completely innocent, after all, not to mention the apple of Grayson’s eye.

Despite their father’s blatant favoritism toward Mina and their stepmother’s love of extravagance, the three siblings remained close as they grew older, always looking out for each other. Damon hated the thought of leaving them behind after graduation, so he stayed in Gotham for college. It was while he was studying for his bachelor’s degree that he finally properly met the young playboy Bruce Wayne, whom he quickly befriended after seeing right through the man’s façade. The two became thick as thieves, with Damon fearlessly fending off paparazzi and sleazy reporters on his behalf. It was this behavior and his expertise with social media that landed him the job as Bruce’s publicist after he graduated college.

Damon’s work ethic was impeccable and he grew bolder as the years went on. Unfortunately, his relationship with his father and stepmother declined even further, as both of them were jealous of his success and kept trying to tear him down. He cut contact with them after his father reached out to Bruce and tried to get him fired, but by then, the damage to his psyche was monumental. His depression and anxiety were worse than they had ever been, resulting in destructive outbursts due to his already prominent anger issues. Not wanting to end up hurting anyone, he began seeking out psychiatric help, had trouble finding a therapist who was accepting of him. He refused to let that hold him back, though, and kept trying.

Bruce knew almost none of this. Damon didn’t want his friend and employer to worry about his mental state, fearing that Bruce might fire him if he found out how unstable the publicist was. He kept it hidden for years.

Things came to a head when the Scarecrow went on another rampage through Gotham. Damon had the misfortune of being in his warpath, and was taken hostage after being dosed with fear toxin, dragged off to the old ACE Chemicals facility. However, he became far more violent than Scarecrow anticipated, rage bursting forth in tandem with his terror. He fought tooth and nail to free himself from both the villain’s clutches and the horrific hallucinations, spewing curses, insults, and threats the entire time. Batman followed them, of course, and engaged Scarecrow in battle, not realizing that some of the vats in the facility had not been drained. At some point during the fight, Damon fell into one, and was forever changed. The fear toxin in his bloodstream mixed with the mutagenic chemical in the vat and his own adrenaline to give him superpowers, nearly killing him in the process. He awoke in the hospital a week later with his clearly exhausted siblings watching over him.

It took him a while to recover physically, and even longer to recover mentally and emotionally, but when he did, he was livid. With Scarecrow, with Batman, with ACE Chemicals, and with himself for getting caught in the first place. Punching a mirror in frustration led him to discover his new shadowmancy powers, and he began to experiment with them and test his limits. Eventually, he gained enough courage and confidence to go back to work, which Bruce was thrilled about. The man had been checking in on him almost as often as Drake and Mina after the accident, and was glad to see his friend back on his feet. After dark, Damon took to the streets as the ruthless and ethereal Shadowhaunt, making Gotham’s villains regret their life choices in increasingly morbid and creative ways. He declared Scarecrow as his archenemy, of course, but also had a particularly violent hatred for the Joker.

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 7.14 (after 1900)

1900 – Armies of the Eight-Nation Alliance capture Tientsin during the Boxer Rebellion. 1902 – Peruvian explorer and farmer Agustín Lizárraga discovers Machu Picchu, the "Lost City of the Incas". 1902 – The Campanile in St Mark's Square, Venice collapses, also demolishing the loggetta. 1911 – Harry Atwood, an exhibition pilot for the Wright brothers, is greeted by President Taft after he lands his aeroplane on the South Lawn of the White House, having flown from Boston. 1915 – Beginning of the McMahon–Hussein Correspondence between Hussein bin Ali, Sharif of Mecca and the British official Henry McMahon concerning the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire. 1916 – Battle of Delville Wood begins as an action within the Battle of the Somme, lasting until 3 September 1916. 1933 – In a decree called the Gleichschaltung, Adolf Hitler abolishes all German political parties except the Nazis. 1933 – Nazi eugenics programme begins with the proclamation of the Law for the Prevention of Hereditarily Diseased Offspring requiring the compulsory sterilization of any citizen who suffers from alleged genetic disorders. 1942 – In the Wardha session of Congress, the "Quit India" resolution is approved, authorising Mahatma Gandhi to campaign for India's independence from Britain. 1943 – In Diamond, Missouri, the George Washington Carver National Monument becomes the first United States National Monument in honor of an African American. 1948 – Palmiro Togliatti, leader of the Italian Communist Party, is shot and wounded near the Italian Parliament. 1950 – Korean War: beginning of the Battle of Taejon. 1951 – Ferrari take their first Formula One grand prix victory at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. 1957 – Rawya Ateya takes her seat in the National Assembly of Egypt, thereby becoming the first female parliamentarian in the Arab world. 1958 – In the 14 July Revolution in Iraq, the monarchy is overthrown by popular forces led by Abd al-Karim Qasim, who becomes the nation's new leader. 1960 – Jane Goodall arrives at the Gombe Stream Reserve in present-day Tanzania to begin her study of chimpanzees in the wild. 1960 – Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 1-11 ditches off Polillo Island in the Philippines, killing one person and injuring 44. 1965 – Mariner 4 flyby of Mars takes the first close-up photos of another planet. The photographs take approximately six hours to be transmitted back to Earth. 1983 – Mario Bros. is released in Japan, beginning the popular Super Mario Bros franchise. 2002 – French president Jacques Chirac escapes an assassination attempt from Maxime Brunerie during a Bastille Day parade at Champs-Élysées. 2013 – Dedication of statue of Rachel Carson, a sculpture named for the environmentalist, in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. 2015 – NASA's New Horizons probe performs the first flyby of Pluto, and thus completes the initial survey of the Solar System. 2016 – A man ploughs a truck into a Bastille Day celebration in Nice, France, killing 86 people and injuring another 434 before being shot by police.

[hoursofreading]

Schools should teach that America is exceptional—not because Americans are better people than others—but because we have set up a system of rights that, over time, have become available to people who come to this country from all parts of the world. To get at the core of American identity, students should ask: if a foreign country invaded the United States, what monuments and artifacts would be most important to try to preserve because they go to the essence of what it means to be an American? For me personally, the most important monuments to our nation’s values start with the National Archives, home of the essential documents of our liberal democracy—the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Emancipation Proclamation. I would also include the Statue of Liberty, symbolizing America’s openness to legal immigrants from across the world no matter their racial or ethnic origin. And I would want to protect from attack the memorials to Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King, Jr., who helped America live up to its declared values, and would encourage people to see the Wright Brothers National Memorial in North Carolina, a symbol of American ingenuity and free enterprise. The lessons in the textbooks will only take firm hold if they are reinforced by the daily experience of students. To maintain social cohesion, and underline democracy’s message that we all have equal rights, officials should take strong steps to bring children of different racial, ethnic and economic backgrounds together to learn—not through compulsory busing but through public school choice and housing policy. Community service programs in school and national service programs after high school graduation should be used to bridge divides and ignite patriotic sentiments. The federal government can support these various policies through a race to the top program to sustain promising practices centered around teaching balanced history and civics education, and promoting school integration, and community service. The stakes of teaching American identity are enormous. Human beings have a natural yearning to identify with groups that pursue a larger purpose. If educators don’t help students develop a reflective patriotism, extremists will offer false alternatives centered around race or ethnic identities. The good news is that the public supports a better path. Instilling a renewed sense of American identity could inspire a “patriotism dividend,” a strong sense of national community that has provided the precondition for all this country’s great movements for social change over time. Best of all, it could help put America on better footing to sustain its grand experiment in liberal democratic governance for another 250 years—a worthy goal to ponder this July 4th holiday.

[sofiablog22]

Galata Tower: A Beacon of Istanbul's Rich Heritage and Architectural Grandeur

The Galata Tower, an iconic historical monument in Istanbul, Turkey, stands as a testament to the city's rich and diverse cultural heritage. Known locally as Galata Kulesi, this medieval stone tower dominates the skyline of the Galata district, offering panoramic views of Istanbul's enchanting landscape, including the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn, and the sprawling metropolis that bridges Europe and Asia.

The tower's history dates back to the 14th century, when it was constructed by the Genoese colony in Constantinople, which is modern-day Istanbul. The Genoese, who were powerful maritime traders, built the tower as part of their fortified district of Galata in 1348 during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor John VI Cantacuzene. Initially known as the Christea Turris, or the Tower of Christ, the Galata Tower was primarily intended for defense and surveillance, overseeing the bustling activities of the Golden Horn.

Standing at approximately 67 meters (220 feet) in height, the Galata Tower was the tallest structure in Istanbul when it was built. Its cylindrical structure, made of stone, has withstood centuries of seismic activity, wars, and numerous reconstructions, attesting to the architectural ingenuity of its builders. The tower's robust design features an exterior of sturdy masonry, topped with a conical cap that enhances its distinctive silhouette against the city's skyline.

Throughout its history, the Galata Tower has served various purposes beyond its original defensive role. During the Ottoman period, it functioned as a fire-watch tower, a crucial role in a city where wooden structures were prone to devastating fires. The tower's strategic vantage point allowed early detection of fires, contributing significantly to urban safety.

One of the most fascinating episodes in the tower's history involves the legendary flight of Hezarfen Ahmed Çelebi in the 17th century. According to Ottoman chroniclers, Hezarfen Ahmed Çelebi, an early aviation pioneer, used artificial wings to glide from the Galata Tower across the Bosphorus to the Üsküdar district on the Asian side. This remarkable feat, if true, would make him one of the first humans to achieve controlled flight, predating the Wright brothers by centuries. This story has become an integral part of the tower's folklore, illustrating the blend of history and legend that surrounds the Galata Tower.

In the modern era, the Galata Tower has been transformed into a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can ascend the tower via an elevator, followed by a short staircase, to reach the observation deck. From this vantage point, they are treated to a breathtaking 360-degree view of Istanbul's diverse and vibrant cityscape, encompassing historic sites like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace, as well as the serene waters of the Bosphorus.

Inside the tower, various floors house a museum that showcases its storied past through exhibits of artifacts, historical documents, and multimedia displays. The tower also features a restaurant and a café, where guests can enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine while soaking in the magnificent views. In the evening, the tower is often illuminated, adding a magical ambiance to its already captivating presence.

The Galata Tower is more than just an architectural landmark; it is a symbol of Istanbul's enduring legacy as a crossroads of civilizations. Its enduring presence through centuries of change reflects the city's resilience and its ability to blend the old with the new. Today, the Galata Tower continues to draw visitors from around the world, standing as a beacon of Istanbul's historical grandeur and its vibrant, ever-evolving culture.

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