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.
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.
Often demonized as patriarchal torture devices, these garments were seen as a practicality in their day.
These natural disasters have had a surprising influence on art, music, and literature.
Each of these so-called cures is stranger than the last.
By Orrin Grey
From crime and punishment to technological advancements and beyond.
A unionization fight led to widespread effects on the Cold War and Japanese and global culture.
By Will Lennon
Get your fill of history with these eye-opening gastronomy books.
Time on or near the front lines shaped these authors' lives and work.
By John Tuttle
Evans was known for sharing groundbreaking stories.
By Kara Brand
During a 1777 skirmish in Cooch’s Bridge, Delaware, General William Maxwell ordered the flag be raised.
The children's author's macabre sense of humor and appreciation of darkness were likely sharpened by his combat history.