Daily Content Archive

Word of the Day
cistron Definition: (noun) A section of DNA that contains the genetic code for a single polypeptide and functions as a hereditary unit. Synonyms: gene, factor Usage: When cistrons are located in reproductive cells, they pass their information to the next generation.

Article of the Day

The Black Death The Black Death was a form of bubonic plague that was pandemic throughout Europe, the Middle East, and much of Asia in the 14th century. Thought to have been caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, it killed between one-third and half of Europe's population and at least 75 million people worldwide. Recently, it has been argued that the Black Death was not caused by bubonic plague, at all, but by what? More...

This Day in History

US Department of Agriculture Is Created (1862) US President Abraham Lincoln created the Department of Agriculture, which he referred to as the "people's department," at a time when most Americans were farmers. It played a key role in the survival of many during the Depression, and today it continues to ensure that those in need receive food. It also aids farmers, inspects meat and dairy products, oversees food stamp and school lunch programs, and administers national forests. Before Lincoln, the Agricultural Division was part of what office? More...

Today's Birthday

Richard Avedon (1923) A major figure in fashion photography, Avedon studied photography in the US Merchant Marine. He became a regular contributor to Harper's Bazaar in the 1940s and was later was associated with Vogue. Known for his stark, black-and-white portraits of people in unusual poses, Avedon redefined fashion photography as an art form. However, many consider his magnum opus to be what 1985 book documenting something very different from fashion? More...

Quotation of the Day
It is greater than the stars - that moving procession of human energy; greater than the palpitating earth and the things growing thereon. Kate Chopin (1851-1904)

Idiom of the Day
on in years — Advanced in age; old or becoming old. More...

Today's Holiday

Race of the Ceri (2023) The Race of the Ceri (Candles) held in Gubbio, Umbria, Italy, every May 15 is thought by some to have originated in pre-Christian times because its date coincides with the Ides of May in the pagan calendar, but the better-founded explanation is that it commemorates the city's patron, St. Ubaldo Baldassini. The candles for which the event is named are heavy, tower-like structures reinforced with iron bands. These are taken in procession to the Piazza dei Consoli; then, upon a signal, the bearers run with the candles up to the top of Mount Ingino, where they are offered to St. Ubaldo. More...