Welcome to HistoryWow
Why ‘Wow’? Because history has a ‘Wow’ factor. History is rich in fascinating and inspirational incidents and events. Stories of heroism, self-sacrifice, humor, arrogance, foolishness, victory against the odds, the cruel hand of fate, irony and nobility.
History’s got the lot. Since 2012, HistoryWow’s aim, using only the finest historical reference material, has been to bring you some of these fascinating and inspirational incidents and events, in a short, sharp format. A little bit of history every day. But not enough to overload your busy lifestyles. We hope you enjoy HistoryWow!
History Question of the Day
What famous event was Japanese civil servant Masabumi Hosono (1870-1939) involved in, and why was he ostracised from society as a result?
The answer tomorrow.
Yesterday's question and answer:
In the 1880s, American dentist Dr Albert Southwick surprisingly worked to develop which invention?
Answer: The electric chair. In 1881 Southwick had been given the inspiration for such a device after witnessing how an elderly drunkard was quickly killed when he fell into an electric generator. The chair was eventually developed in collaboration with Thomas Edison.
Source: Eighth Amendment by Rich Smith
More at: History
Ask HistoryWow
The History Wow Search Engine. "Ask HistoryWow"
History Question of the Week
What was the first commercially successful paddle steamer?
The answer on Thursday.Submit Answer
The first correct answer to each week's question will receive a US$30 voucher to buy a history book of their choice.
Last week's question and answer:
What pioneering treaty, signed in 1860 between England and France, inaugurated a period of relative free trade among many European nations that survived until the 1890s?
Answer: The Cobden–Chevalier Treaty. The treaty is considered the first modern multinational trade agreement.Source: Encyclopedia of Free Trade by Cynthia Northrup et al
More at: History
HistoryWow’s Golden List of Great History Books
There are many great history books, on a range of interesting topics. These are some of the ones we at HistoryWow think are especially good.
These excellent books are available at: History
The HistoryWow Forum
CALLING ALL HISTORY BUFFS!
The fascinating thing about history is that there are a variety of different opinions and views on historical questions. Here is your chance to tell us what you think about a particular history question.THIS WEEK'S HISTORYWOW FORUM TOPIC IS:
In his ranking on the most influential persons in history, historian Michael Hart ranks George Washington (1732-1799) ahead of both Alexander the Great (353-323 BCE) and Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821), claiming Washington’s accomplishments were more enduring. What do you think?
More at: History
