History Archives

Early Modern English: Major Linguistic Developments

What is Early Modern English? What are the major linguistic developments that took place during this period? The Early Modern English period extends roughly from 1500 to 1800 CE. The major developments during this period were the Great Vowel Shift, the invention of the printing press, and the English spelling reform. It was also the time of William Shakespeare, who made a remarkable contribution to the standardization and exaltation of the English language. Read about the key events and linguistic developments that took place during Early Modern English.

Why Literature Is So Influenced By Shakespeare

Why is literature so influenced by the works of Shakespeare? What does an author have to gain by referencing Shakespeare in his work? In the literary world, Shakespeare is considered a sacred text. Authors know that Shakespeare is the most well-known writer in history, so they rely on a reader’s awareness of Shakespeare to deepen the meaning of their own work. Keep reading for more information about the influence of Shakespeare on literature.

Michelle Obama’s Campaign in the 2008 Election

Why did Michelle Obama decide to start her own campaign even though she despised politics? Did her campaign end up doing more harm than good? In 2008, Michelle Obama decided to do what most presidential candidates’ spouses do and started her own campaign for Barack. Despite her disdain for politics, Michelle managed to connect with many voters on a personal level. Continue reading to learn more about Michelle Obama’s campaign.

Life in the Stone Age Dictated Human Evolution

Why are obesity and dental cavities effects of evolution? Why does modern food trigger supernormal stimuli in our bodies? The human body is evolved for life in the Stone Age. Our way of living changed so rapidly that evolution has yet to catch up and our bodies are paying the price. Keep reading to learn why our bodies are still adapted for the Stone Age and how that’s hurting us.

Barack and Michelle’s Love Story: How They Met

How did Michelle and Barack Obama meet? How did their love blossom despite Michelle not wanting to get in a relationship? After she graduated from Harvard Law School, Michelle moved back to Chicago, lived with her family, and worked at a law firm. She was tasked with mentoring a summer associate, Barack, and his earnest attitude towards community work and self-assurance impressed Michelle. Continue on to learn about Michelle and Barack’s love story.

Why Did English Spelling Reform Efforts Fail?

What was the English spelling reform? And what were the reasons behind the efforts to standardize the conventions of English spelling? The incongruity between English spelling and pronunciation has been a defining feature of the English language for most of its history. This has led some notable public figures to call for the English spelling reform to bridge the two together. Keep reading to learn about the English spelling reform and why it failed.

How Do Genes Impact Health and Disease?

Why hasn’t evolution gotten rid of diseases and mental illness? How do genes impact health and disease? Unfortunately for humans, our bodies have evolved to prioritize reproduction above everything else. This means that diseases that affect us later in life are genetically ignored and mental illnesses that cause sexual aggression are prioritized. Keep reading to learn more about how genes impact our health.

Define Cultural Appropriation: Why It’s Problematic

How do you define cultural appropriation? Why is cultural appropriation problematic? There’s considerable disagreement about what constitutes cultural appropriation even among people of the same culture. But, how do you define cultural appropriation? Simply put, it is when someone adopts an element of culture that isn’t their own (e.g. a hairstyle or a piece of clothing). In this article, we will define cultural appropriation, highlight some examples, and explain why cultural appropriation is problematic.

First Lady Michelle Obama Wanted to Make an Impact

What did Michelle Obama do in her first few months as First Lady? How did the media respond to her actions? Michelle Obama always struggled with not feeling “good enough.” So when she became the first Black First Lady, she felt the pressure to make a good impression. Michelle created her own agenda which included nutrition awareness, support for military families, and encouraging young girls to pursue education. Keep reading for more information on Michelle Obama’s first few months as First Lady.

The Little-Known History of the American English

What is the history of American English? Who brought the English language to the American continent? How did Americans develop their distinct vocabulary and pronunciation? The history of American English began in the seventeenth century when the first wave of English-speaking settlers arrived in the Americas. Over time, they developed their unique vocabulary and pronunciation, borrowing from the native tongues of the American Indians, the earlier Spanish settlers, and even the French. Keep reading to learn about the history of American English.