This is a ballad I am working on to tell the tale of John of Austria (1547-1578), also known as Don Juan de Austria. Born out of wedlock, he was the son of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V and the half-brother of King Phillip II of Spain. He was a brave and enduring man, scornedContinue reading “The Hero with No Name”
Category Archives: History and Origins
The Happy Warrior: A Haiku Series
The story of Wojtek the Bear was such an inspiring and wholesome story that I felt it only fitting to add a poetry post on the topic. Seeing as Wojtek was a soldier, I felt it most fitting to write a haiku series. Since haiku was developed by the warrior samurai as a form ofContinue reading “The Happy Warrior: A Haiku Series”
Heroes From History: Wojtek the Bear
Wojtek – meaning “Happy Warrior” in Polish – was a Syrian brown bear who was enlisted in the Polish Army during the Second World War. He was the only non-human to ever receive an enlisted position with an official rank and payroll in a human military, at least during WWII, and potentially ever. Wojtek wasContinue reading “Heroes From History: Wojtek the Bear”
The Battle of Leyte Gulf
The Battle of Leyte Gulf was a major engagement of the Pacific War during World War II which resulted in the Japanese Navy ceasing all offensive operations for the rest of the conflict. From October 23-26, 1944, American, Australian, and Filipino forces battled against the Empire of Japan for control of the Philippines. Their goalContinue reading “The Battle of Leyte Gulf”
Iconic Weapons: Cutlass
The cutlass was a common naval weapon used by sailors, pirates, and marines alike during the Age of Sail. It was a reliable weapon for the man out at sea, but it also saw extensive use on land as an agricultural tool. In the Caribbean region, it saw the most extensive use. Due to itsContinue reading “Iconic Weapons: Cutlass”
Iconic Weapons: Bowie Knife
The Bowie knife is a large knife that was in prominent use throughout the 19th Century in the United States. Its design inspired many knives which would be used throughout the 20th Century and into the modern era. The knife takes its namesake from Jim Bowie and the Vidalia Sandbar Duel which was popularized byContinue reading “Iconic Weapons: Bowie Knife”
What Is Bravery? – A Haiku Series
What is bravery? Does bravery make a man? Can boys be as brave? Duty calls us all Paying no heed to the hour It calls when it must It calls who it needs Bravery cares not for age Duty must be met The young and old go Into the fray of conflict To save whatContinue reading “What Is Bravery? – A Haiku Series”
Iconic Weapons: Gladius Hispaniensis
The gladius Hispaniensis, more commonly referred to as the “gladius” for short, is one of history’s most iconic sword designs. The ancient Romans are well-known for their innovations which perfected the technology of other cultures. The gladius – originally of Spanish design – is a perfect example of this. The Romans adopted the gladius andContinue reading “Iconic Weapons: Gladius Hispaniensis”
Heroes From History: Anthony Wayne
Anthony Wayne was a famous general in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War who was later appointed commander in chief of the United States Army by President George Washington. He was born in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania on January 1, 1745. Perhaps Wayne’s most notable accomplishments were his victory at the Battle of Stony PointContinue reading “Heroes From History: Anthony Wayne”
Skies on Fire
The Battle of Britain was a series of aerial conflicts over Britain from July-September 1940. The German Luftwaffe was tasked with establishing aerial supremacy over Great Britain in preparation for a naval invasion. Adolf Hitler had assumed the British would surrender after their complete evacuation from the European mainland and the capitulation of France. AsContinue reading “Skies on Fire”
The Pensive Warrior 