After winning the U.S. Open in 1972, women’s tennis star Billie Jean King took a stand against the unequal prize money between men and women in that year’s tournament. Like previous years, at that year’s rendition of the world renowned tournament (as well as countless other sporting events), female competitors were making significantly less than their male counterparts. In a speech shortly after her victory, … Continue reading Billie Jean King and the Road to Equality

Although there were and are far more than just ten inspirational women in our world, let’s take a look at these fantastic female figures who have emboldened so many. 1. Anna May Wong (1905-1961) Anna May Wong is considered Hollywood’s first Asian-American movie star. She overcame the racism that she faced during her career, going on to earn roles in over 50 domestic and foreign … Continue reading Ten Fantastic Female Figures

It’s extremely easy to forget that while all of the other months of the year have 30 or 31 days, February ends on the 28th, or on a leap year, the 29th. Find it weird that it’s March already? Well, the reason that February is cut short dates back to the second king of Rome, Numa Pompilius. Rome’s lunar calendar was at first 10 months … Continue reading The Odd Month Out: Why February only has 28 Days

(Cw: Discussion of racism, inequality, race riots, and hate crimes targeted toward black and brown people) What is Black History Month? Black History Month is a time to reflect on the struggles and successes of the African Diaspora (1) throughout our nation’s history. It is a time to recognize and celebrate Black contributions to our society and to acknowledge the ongoing fight for equality. Black … Continue reading A Guide to Black History Month

Throughout history the Olympics have served as a reminder of unity, competition, and global interaction. It is one of the most looked forward to events in the world. Every two years, winter games then summer, the games commence and people from everywhere tune in to join in the fun: rooting for their favorite teams, watching amazing athletes beating records, and enjoying global unity through competition. … Continue reading The Well-Rounded Olympian

Can you recall, off the top of your head, who the 13th president of the United States of America was? Chances are, you can’t. But every president has a story to tell. That’s why I’m here to tell you about Millard Fillmore. Born in January of 1800, he lived in poverty in the frontiers of New York. First working on his father’s farm, he was … Continue reading The Life of Millard Fillmore

Ever since College Board created the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) in 1959, the PSATs have been a big part of a middle and high schooler’s life. The PSAT is a timed test that includes a reading, writing, and math portion of the test, and is used to show us how ready we are to take the SATs. Before making it to the SAT, there … Continue reading The History of the PSAT (And Why We Do It)

The FBI or the Federal Bureau of Investigation is an intelligence and threat based national security organization. It’s mission is to protect the American people and uphold the constitution. This means that they are responsible for responding to threats both within our country and without, cybercrimes, and counterintelligence. It was launched on July 28, 1908 by Attorney General Charles J. Bonaparte.  It is headed by … Continue reading Unsolved Mysteries of the FBI

Most of us know what Halloween is, but most of us don’t know the history behind it. This holiday is more than just dressing up in a costume or going door-to-door asking for candy.  “Halloween” literally means “hallowed evening”, and the holiday was actually previously referred to as “All Hallow’s Eve” to honor “hallows”, which are more commonly known as saints.  This celebration is also … Continue reading The History of Halloween

With Halloween weekend upon us, it’s thegourd’s time to shine. Literally!  Pumpkin carving is a halloween tradition that dates back to the old Irish myth of Stingy Jack. The legend says that Jack tricked the devil, not once but twice, trapping him as a coin and up a tree. In return for his freedom, the devil promised not to claim Jack’s soul upon his death. … Continue reading Jack O’ Lanterns: Who Knows Their Stuff?