Our world’s cultural diversity is awe-inspiring. In this corner of the Internet, we’re embracing and exploring the history behind all the unique customs that we see today.
Have you ever considered the origins and meaning behind the celebration of Halloween? How about Labor Day, or Juneteenth? Where exactly did the charming legend of Santa Claus come from, and how did it come to be tied to a Christian holiday? Even for those who observe these holidays, their fascinating historical origins can be obscure, but we’re breaking it all down for you.
Beyond the celebration of holidays, there’s a whole world of cultural history to explore. Dig into culinary history books that share the meaning behind various regional dishes and eating etiquette. Discover the history behind endangered languages that only have a few speakers left. Or learn about the fraught history of the corset, and what the garment meant to the women who wore it.
Curious about cultures beyond your own? We’ve rounded up the best books that open your eyes to other people’s way of life. Including Christian and Jewish history, the Middle East, Native American perspectives, Black history, and more, the best way you can appreciate other cultures is to educate yourself about them.
Nearly every aspect of American life changed after WWII.
A historian examines how different cultures have perceived witchcraft, from ancient times to today.
By Kimmy Kelly
Some facts are stranger than fiction.
Explore a unique slice of Americana.
Does the fascinating Greek legend have any basis in reality?
By Orrin Grey
A look from every angle at the complicated man behind the music legend.
A look at history beyond war and politics.
These tribes have spurned contact with the modern outside world.
By Orrin Grey
This wind instrument was designed to intimidate opponents.
By Lee D'Amato
Discover the cultural celebration behind the historic anniversary.
A picture is worth a thousand words.
By Grace Felder
These songs offer a glimpse into the past.
Let's delve into the meaning behind this month-long observance.
By Orrin Grey
Was he a pioneer of archaeology or a con man who got lucky?
By Grace Felder
Explore millennia of rich and complex history.
Built during the Middle Ages, these castles are still standing today.
These personal stories shed light on the modern Native American experience.
By Grace Felder
These eye-opening books shed light on other cultures and communities.
By Orrin Grey
Historian Geoffrey Parker explores how global cooling caused famine, war, and economic collapse in the 1600s.