FACTS ABOUT CALIGULA

Gaius Caesar ruled Rome from 37-41 A.D. He is better known as Caligula.  The son of the famous general Germanicus, he went on campaign with him in Germany as a boy and was dressed in a little soldier’s uniform.  Including little boots (caligulae), so the legionaries called him “Caligula”.  He Read more…

THE SHORTEST WAR IN HISTORY

                The Anglo-Zanzibar War took place in 1896.  In 1890, Great Britain and Germany had agreed that Zanzibar fell in the British sphere of influence in Africa.  Soon after, it became a British protectorate with a puppet sultan on the throne.  In 1896, he died mysteriously and was replaced by Read more…

GARY LARSON

Let’s get less serious today.  It happens to be the birthday of my favorite cartoonist.  I know this information may not be useful in a History class, but I know some of you who read this are fans, too.  In 1976, Gary Larson was a struggling jazz guitarist who had Read more…

FACTS ABOUT CORTES

Governor Diego Velazquez of Cuba gave Cortes approval to explore the coast of Mexico, make contact with the natives, and do a little trading. When he learned that Cortes planned to conquer, he rescinded the approval, but Cortes had hastily sailed to escape the disapproval.  He left with 11 ships Read more…