Top Ten Bad A**es of History

For your reading enjoyment, I've compiled a list of, in my opinion, the bravest, most unflinching, charismatic, intelligent and indomitable people in history. Obviously, very deserving individuals will be left out for the simple reason that I don't...

Information, Research, and Utter Insanity: The Madness of the Internet and How to Avoid it!

They might be be holding a Satanic ritual now, but rest assured, they can't wait to get back to their laptops! At thirty-five, I can recall a time when information was not readily available. Trivial, but unanswered questions posed at the dinner...

The Religious and Political Significance of Jerusalem's Temple Mount

Located within Jerusalem's Old City, the Temple Mount holds religious significance for Jews, Muslims and Christians alike. It is the supposed site of Mt. Moriah, where Abraham nearly sacrificed his son Isaac,...

The Harem: Enslavement and Luxury within the Sultan's Palace

Prior to the period of reform know as the Tanzimat (1839-1876), slavery was alive and well within the Ottoman Empire, and in fact, was necessary to ensure the inner machinations of the Ottoman government, administration, and military for nearly...

Magical Petra: Backpacking the Middle-East

You may recognize this from "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade." It was the Temple of the Holy Grail. "Would you like some tea?" she asked, as her doey-eyed children sold postcards and scampered among the promontories near Al-Deir. To the west lay...

The Allure of Opium Abuse in 19th Century Europe

Opium was introduced to Europe in large amounts in the early 1800's by European sailors and travelers, as well as by Chinese immigrants. Arriving from the Orient, opium had an air of exoticism surrounding it, as well as a certain artistic appeal....

Was Jesus a Postmodernist?

5 Ways to Effectively Annoy your Cat

Let's face it, that cute, furry and cuddly beast known as the domestic house cat can be a domestic pain in the arse. If you "own" one, you know exactly what I mean. They don't come when called, they stand on your head at 6 in the morning when...

The Salem Witch Trials and the Creepy George Burroughs

The trial of George Burroughs in Salem during 1692 was unique in that Burroughs was the only minister accused, tried and convicted of witchcraft in the Salem witch trials. Though speculation exists as to Burroughs' actual relationship to the...

Backpacking the Middle East: A Journey of Alexandrian Proportions- Chapter One-Greece

Andy and Jason's Excellent Adventure Sometime in 2002, I hatched a crazy plan to follow the path of Alexander the Great. Having been to Greece, I knew that the initial part of the journey was feasible. But the rest? Alexander went everywhere ....