A Brief History On December 3, 1997, a conference of countries of the world decided on conditions to draft a treaty banning the use of anti-personnel land mines.  Although 121 nations signed the so called Ottawa Treaty (because it was signed in Ottawa, Canada), the United States, along with China, India, Israel, Iran and Russia refused to sign the humanitarian pact.  When the largest or most powerful countries refuse to sign a treaty, what good is the treaty?  Here we list some of the treaties the US has refused to join, despite nearly universal acceptance by other countries. Digging Deeper…

A Brief History On December 2, 2017, we celebrate National Mutt Day, that day when we acknowledge the union of pure-bred and non-pure-bred dogs that produce the most common type of canine of all, the humble but wonderful “mutt.”  We are not talking about “designer” breed mixes here, either!  No “labradoodles” or “puggles” need apply.  In fact, we are not even talking about dogs at all!!!  We are discussing the marriage of royalty and commoners, especially in light of the recent engagement of Britain’s Prince Harry to American divorcee and actress Meghan Markle. Digging Deeper Prince Harry is the son…

A Brief History On December 1, 1768, the Danish ship Fredensborg sank in a storm off the coast of Norway on her return trip from a death filled delivery of slaves to St. Croix in the Caribbean.  Today, we list 10 Infamous Ships that either served an evil purpose or were particularly unlucky, and are remembered today with less than fond memories.  (Note: the RMS Titanic and SS Edmund Fitzgerald are TOO obvious!) Digging Deeper 1. Fredensborg, Denmark/Norway. Originally named Cron Prindz Christian after the heir apparent to the throne of Norway/Denmark, her last cargo of slaves was picked up at…

A Brief History On November 30, 1982, Michael Jackson, known as “The King of Pop” for good reason, released his 6th solo album, the “monster” hit Thriller.  Although actual sales numbers are hard to pin down, it is likely Thriller has sold between 1/3 and ¾ more copies than the next best-selling album.  Today, we list our nominees for the 10 Greatest Record Albums of All Time, based on sales, impact on the music industry and what we consider to be great music.  (Hey, it is our opinions, but feel free to nominate those albums you think should be on…

A Brief History On November 29, 1963, in the wake of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, President Lyndon B. Johnson formed a committee under the direction of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States Earl Warren to investigate the assassination and related events.  Johnson used Executive Order 11130 to form the commission and Congress had passed Senate  Joint Resolution 137 authorizing the President to form such a commission.  The name, Warren Commission, has stood for controversy and distrust of government ever since! Digging Deeper The idea behind the formation of an investigative commission of prominent…