This weekend was the 244th anniversary of the first time the American Flag was flown in battle. On September 3, 1777 the red, white, and blue banner with thirteen stars and thirteen stripes was first flown during the Battle of Cooch’s Bride in Delaware. Under the command of General William Maxwell, Continental forces raised theContinue reading “Fateful Flight of the Stars and Stripes”
Category Archives: History and Origins
The Monomyth and “Hero’s Journey”
The Monomyth is a 17-step guide for creating a story, separated into three acts. It was first defined as such by Joseph Campbell, and later refined into the 12-step Hero’s Journey by Christopher Vogler. However, this formula was not something created by Joseph Campbell or any other individual. Rather, it would be more accurate toContinue reading “The Monomyth and “Hero’s Journey””
Origins of Knighthood
The concept of the medieval knight is prevalent in fiction and other media across many different societies. When we think of a knight, it is common for images of an armored warrior covered in steel plate with a longsword to come to mind. What are the origins of this iconic class of warrior, however? WhenContinue reading “Origins of Knighthood”
Heroes From History: Miyamoto Musashi
Miyamoto Musashi was a Japanese samurai who lived between the years of 1584-1645. He was originally known as Miyamoto Masana, but later changed his name. Musashi was also known by the name Niten, which was his artistic name he attributed to his later paintings and sculptures. Musashi is famous for having partaken in at leastContinue reading “Heroes From History: Miyamoto Musashi”
The 4th of July: American Independence Day
Today is the 4th of July, American Independence Day. On July 2nd, the Continental Congress voted for Independence, and John Adams remarked the day would be remembered with fireworks and celebrations. The Declaration of Independence was dated July 4th, 1776 and was signed months later on August 2nd. Now, as that event continues to ringContinue reading “The 4th of July: American Independence Day”
Heroes From History: Paik Sun Yup
Paik Sun-Yup was a war hero for the Republic of Korea who served during the Korean War, reaching the rank of a four-star general during his military career. He also was the the chairman of the ROK Joint Chiefs of Staff and even worked as an ambassador for South Korea to France, Taiwan, Canada, andContinue reading “Heroes From History: Paik Sun Yup”
Heroes From History: Jesse Brown and Thomas Hudner
Human history is filled with stories about bravery, brotherhood, and the power of friendship. There are many instances throughout the existence of our species which exemplify these traits and inspire us to be better than we are. This is one of those tales, which despite not having the happiest of endings, speaks to the importanceContinue reading “Heroes From History: Jesse Brown and Thomas Hudner”
History of Decoration Day (Memorial Day)
Memorial Day is a national holiday in the United States of America. It was originally known as Decoration Day until the First World War. While many States claim to have been the first to commemorate the holiday, and the exact year of its founding is disputed, most sources officially recognize the holiday as founded inContinue reading “History of Decoration Day (Memorial Day)”
Heroes From History: Valeria Panlilio
Valeria Panlilio was a spy and guerilla fighter for the Allies during the Second World War. Commonly referred to as “Colonel Yay,” she is considered to have been the brains behind the “Marking Guerillas,” a notorious resistance group in the Philippines which fought against the Japanese occupation during the war. She was born in Denver,Continue reading “Heroes From History: Valeria Panlilio”
Celebrating the Bow: National Archery Day
It’s National Archery Day! The second Saturday of May is recognized as National Archery Day, an obscure holiday meant to celebrate the iconic duo of the bow and arrow. Archery is the application of the bow in combat and recreation across history. An “archer” is an individual armed with and wielding a bow. People canContinue reading “Celebrating the Bow: National Archery Day”
The Pensive Warrior 