#Native Development Triumph

[sigzentechnologies]

From Concept to Cloud: Revolutionizing Your Apps with Native Development

Introduction In the ever-evolving landscape of app development, Native Development stands out as a pivotal force, driving innovation and user experience. This article delves into the crucial aspect of cloud integration within Native Development, exploring how Sigzen Technologies spearheads this integration to propel businesses forward. Understanding Native Development Defining Native…

[serpentface]

The Usoma Stavis Amanti displaying a full ceremonial crown and not being all that happy to be here.

The modern style of Imperial Wardi sovereignty is in large part rooted in regionally native traditions of kingship, particularly that of the present day provinces of Ephennos, Wardin, and Godsmouth (which are the most powerful and influential to Imperial Wardin's development). Some aspects are partly adopted from and modeled after former Burri emperors and other aspects of their legacy of occupation. These combined influences are highly visible in the details of the regalia.

The most prominent motif is the ornament of entwined and conjoined vipers. This derived from much, much earlier symbols of kingship among the Ephenni tribe. The original motif depicted two separate serpents entwined as if in mating, and symbolized the union of two prior ancient Ephenni kingdoms and the king's sovereignty over the two major river systems within Ephennos. This symbol was gradually generalized into representing kingly sovereignty in of itself, expanded beyond Ephennos into the broader Wardi cultural sphere, and merged with an entirely separate tradition of conjoined serpent imagery representing the Face of God Kusomache. The present day dual-viper symbol is wholly identified with Kusomache as the protector and benefactor of royalty, and is only permitted to be worn by members of the royal family (the dual cobra representing Kusomache more broadly has no such restrictions).

The crown contains valuable feathers- the tail plume of the skimmer gull, and black and gold wing feathers from the rare scrub unkata, fanned out in a pattern reminiscent of the male's courtship display. The scrub unkata is only found in small semi-desert stretches of the province of Wardin. The use of its feathers have a very, very long history of importance to the South Wardi as symbols of wealth and power, being worn by chieftains, lords, and kings (who often were considered to own most wild animals under their providence, with use of certain valued and/or sacred animals being restricted to these sovereigns). There are no longer status restrictions to wearing these feathers (and the animals do not have the same cultural protection as the sacred skimmer gulls), and wider demand for the valuable feathers has resulted in the already rare animals being hunted to probable extinction.

The crown features three solar-fans, one of two common motifs for the sun (the other being a circular solar halo). The use of this symbol in royal regalia is in part a relic of Imperial Burri occupation. Emperors of the 2nd Burri Empire were also the high priests of their pantheon's solar deity Inanariya, and much of their regalia consisted of the half-sun motif (a semicircle, specifically representative of a rising/setting sun). Governors and generals appointed to the occupied provinces also wore a half-sun motif.

Much of the core imagery representing Burri occupation was rejected (and outright destroyed) in the aftermath of Imperial Bur's fall, and largely forgotten in the two centuries that followed. Solar elements were a major exception. The Ephenni claimed the half-sun motif from their former occupiers and tied this to the battle in which three khait were set ablaze and spooked the Burri force's war lacetor, scattering their forces long enough to turn the tide of battle and starting a chain reaction that would end in their ultimate defeat and withdrawal from the region. The flaming khait came to evoke the solar Face Inyamache triumphing over a false foreign deity, and the Imperial Burri solar iconography was intentionally co-opted and repurposed with this meaning of native sovereignty (for the Ephenni specifically, who were largely absorbed into wider Wardi identity in the century to come). A couple centuries later, the adopted half-sun has developed into the present solar-fan motif, and remains a prominent part of regalia (though has largely lost the depths of its original connotations, instead being a more direct symbol of royalty and power).

Much of the decorative detail is based in metalworking traditions from the far northwest of the region, where the most significant gold deposits are located. This specific visual style was developed in relatively recent history (within the last century) in Godsmouth by its elite artisan class. Its presence in the crown has little intrinsic meaning (it's mostly there as a go-to native metalworking tradition associated with great wealth), but is reflective of Godsmouth's importance as the region's gate to the Inner Seaway, trading hub, and the center of most of its material wealth.

The fur here is white khaitsmane, which is a luxury decorative animal part. There was a long period where the crown instead contained sacred lionsmane, bodily relics of the Face Odomache (via sacrificed tame white lions) and symbols of sovereignty and power. This privilege was taken away in recent history under the conceit that only Odonii and their immediate blood kin can be permitted to wear this item, though this development was clearly symptomatic of deepening division and mistrust between the royalty and priesthood.

Underlying hairstyle (South Wardi-typical macho waxed back and oiled treatment) and full scope of his pained expression

[conceptionsofconciousness]

Punarvasu natives develop the ability to overcome challenges, building resilience and inner strength to triumph over adversity. They possess a natural tendency to excel and gain expertise in various aspects of their lives, including personal relationships, careers, and spiritual pursuits.

More posts on Punarvasu Nakshatra

Nakshatra Notes Masterpost (Link collection of all 27 Nakshatras)

[i-did-not-mean-to]

Kinktober 2024 - Intoxicated Sex (Wet dreams & mind control)

@the-red-butterfly, my dear friend...here is another brandnew pairing for me that I've only written for you! Elwing is an Eldritch horror, Eärendil doesnt mind.

Prompts: Intoxicated Sex (Wet dreams & mind control)

Pairing: Elwing x Eärendil

Words: 565

Warnings: Mind control, intoxication of a sort, undue influence, wet dreams. sex dreams

Lulled by the gentle song of the nearby sea, Eärendil slept peacefully until the stars overhead were at their brightest.

Little by little, his dreams shifted from the gentle rocking of the waves to the churning, unchartered depths below.

She was there—she was everywhere. Her face already haunted his every waking moment, and now he couldn’t escape her otherworldly allure even in his most innocent slumber.

In his young life, Eärendil had witnessed and experienced enough incredible things not to be overly fazed by his beloved’s distinctly eerie qualities.

There was a light in her eyes that drew him in like a lost ship following the homing beacon of a faraway island.

Buckling under the burden of his own blood, he understood that Elwing couldn’t outrun her heritage and all it entailed any more than the rest of them.

While he was writhing helplessly under his thin, worn blanket, his mind was led down a tortuous path that shouldn’t even have been accessible to one such as him.

Enmeshed in his subconscious visions, halfway between a nightmare and a fantasy, he saw Elwing—gloriously, unapologetically naked and smiling brightly—flowing around him like the ocean, caressing his calves and thighs playfully.

Like a rising tide, her warmth soon engulfed him to his hips, and Eärendil gasped for air as one fully submerged by the maddening maelstrom of illicit passion.

Flailing and buckling, he lost himself in a dream so vivid, that it could only be due to the uncanny, unfathomable talents of the woman he so desired.

Kneeling beside him on the cold, hard ground, Elwing smiled.

She’d been wrenched from her parents too early to have been warned and instructed about the terrible, sensual power she’d developed after having left behind her childhood in her destroyed native lands.

Consequently, she didn’t hesitate to wield her insidious might ruthlessly, projecting pictures of herself as she yearned to be into the befuddled mind of the hapless sleeper at her side.

The young prince was handsome and kind, and she wanted him.

It pleased her to look upon his flushed face and watch the treacherous stain between his legs grow wider and wetter with every passing moment—he liked the images arising uninvited before his inner eye.

The camp and everyone within was fast asleep, so she undressed quietly and gently pinned his wrists to the soft, mossy soil to keep him from robbing her of her imminent triumph by a desperate, unconscious intervention of his own.

She could feel the intoxicating effect of her trespass course through his veins, making his blood pulsate frantically through his strong body, and she had to suppress a moan of utter delight.

As Eärendil’s eyes flew open to reveal the vague gaze of one in the throes of a mind-altering, disarming influence, Elwing gave him a soothing smile.

“I dreamt of you—you were gorgeous,” he whispered, lifting a trembling hand to her bare chest as if to make sure he was indeed awake now.

Elwing felt the song of the sea and the mellow melodies of the night sky thrum along her nerves as she took hold of the engorged, leaking cock she’d laid bare.

“Thank you,” she purred before letting her heart, spirit, and body be flooded by the subtle magic she’d woven around them.

As they moved under the stars, fate was rewritten by invisible hands.

@tolkienpinupcalendar <3

Thank you so much for reading!

☞ Masterlist

[bodhranwriting]

Tocktick - Our Introduction to Our Villain

Norris sat seething in the corner of the Branded Crow, his third pint untouched and a stolen newspaper spread across the table.

The headline was, of course, sensationalist and mildly confusing – DEVITT DOMINATES with a byline admitting, NEW ENGINE CATAPULTS CREW TO NEXT ROUND – while the article penned underneath was a more restrained summary of that day’s leg of the Throgmorton race and the author’s tentative predictions on this new piece of technology. He glared at the third lumograph down, ignoring the image of a triumphant Devitt lifting the flag and the one showing the Elmstone siblings fixing their sails, seeing a shot of Talas, Maia, and Emmett standing by the engine. Emmett looked uncomfortable, his face-half turned away and blurred.

No need for that, Norris thought scornfully. I don’t have any proof.

He knocked back his pint, slamming it on the table with enough force that a few of the drunks slumped against the bar looked around. Dark hells, twenty years wasn’t enough to forget the face which had gotten him fired – Emmett Askren was Juan St Ciel, he was sure of it.

It was odd. He hadn’t thought of the youth beyond occasional night-time self-pitying sessions for nigh on a decade and a half now. But one look at his face and it had all come rushing back. The glow of triumph at getting to kill two birds with one stone was enough to excite him into action – stop Katsaros from putting a dent in Gorge’s considerable profits and bring down an elusive past ghost.

Then he remembered that he had no papers, no people who still recalled the man in question. His old bosses were long-dead, the institution in question abandoned and across two oceans. No one cared.

Except him, of course.

His hands were itching. He wanted to hit something, someone for just looking at him funny. He scowled at the other patrons, wondering who would last longest in a fight. None of them looked promising; slug-like middle-aged dockworkers, a few chirpy and withered grandmothers, youths with brittle limbs and prematurely lined faces.

By the Sunlight God’s arse, he hated this place. All the fight had been beaten out of it years ago. A kind of grey inevitability reigned over the inhabitants. The crime consisted of drug-addicts and smugglers rather than any firebrand riots. Barfights here and there, attacks on native and Empire-imported inhabitants by the opposing sides, but there was no real spark to it. It was like the islands permanently had developed low-grade tension headaches. It wasn’t fun.

The tavern door swung open. The entire room’s – including Norris’ – attention flickered towards it. They all stayed there. Norris frowned slightly.

The man who strode inside was tall, about seventy or so years of age, with a neatly trimmed white moustache, beard and swept-back hair. He carried a black cane, but he moved like a dancer, perfectly aware of where he was in the space. The smoke and dirt had settled deeply into his jacket – it had probably been an ivory sort of colour once, but it was now an unpleasant shade of brown. His boots were high-quality and foreign; Eastern by Norris’ guess.

He was also maddeningly familiar.

Either ignoring or oblivious to the stares, the man strode straight up to the bar and flashed a smile at the barkeep. Dipping a hand into his pocket, he spoke in a voice too low for Norris to hear and then produced a rectangular lumograph card. He slid it across the bar – paying no attention to the man next to him peering over his shoulder.

The barkeep made a show of looking it over, but Norris knew that he would disavow all knowledge of the image’s subject. There was a reason that the Helionites’ luminary of protection was also the guardian of those behind the bar.

Not that it was religiously motivated here, he thought scornfully, self-preservation was the saying of the day.

The barkeep shook his head and silently gestured to the taps. The hand held up in response was white and too fine-boned for his frame; if this man had ever done manual labour it had been a lifetime ago.

Then he lifted his cane and rapped it carefully but firmly on the wood of the bar.

It was completely unnecessary. He was the most fascinating thing in the building. The gazes only became open.

Norris sat back in his chair, fingers flat on the table, waiting.

“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen,” the voice was velvet and ridiculously affable, “I request merely a few minutes of your time to assist me with a most important matter.”

A speech like that should have gotten a bottle smashed over his head immediately, but the situation was so unusual, so odd that the tavern was held back in their chairs and captivated. It probably helped that his accent was Eddorian – another small country swallowed by the Empire years before – and therefore not the voice of their brutish overlords, but the sound of another subjugated ally seeking assistance. In the hierarchy of the oppressed, Eddor was not high on the list having surrendered quickly and been permitted to keep much of their culture due to it being so similar to the Empire. But it was still a colony and that meant a form of trust among the Islanders.

Norris was rather proud of himself for the observation, but not so much that he didn’t listen intently to the man’s next words.

“I am buying the next round,” the proclamation was met with owlish silence, “And as you collect your drinks, I will show you a lumograph. I request that you look it over most carefully. And if you know anything about the man – anything at all from having glimpsed him in the street to him being your missus’ lodger – I bid that you tell me. I will pay a sixpence for each truthful piece of information you give.”

The edge to truthful was the flash of a hound’s fang before it growled.

No one moved. A sixpence to Norris was a measly sum – to an Islander it was a good week’s labour, but their pride would not allow them to take payment for informing on someone who (for all they knew) was an enemy of the Empire.

The man regarded the crowd carefully, hand curling tightly about the cane. For a heartbeat, his expression was of frustrated bemusement before the warm smile crept back.

He laid his free hand on his heart and said, “I have come upon my own accord and no one else’s. This a matter of personal import. I am not – and never have been – affiliated with this nation’s government.”

There was some half-hearted shuffling of the patrons once they had figured out the word affiliated. They formed a dense queue, each person staring down at the lumograph before indicating an answer to the man’s question. Once the brief conversations were done, a mug was pressed into their hands, generously filled with beer.  

Norris didn’t move from his seat, attention locked on the stranger’s face. He kept his friendly mask fixed firmly in place, but his stance became tenser as the line grew shorter.

He was evidently not getting the answers he was seeking.

As the last patron turned away to enjoy their reward, the man’s gaze fell on Norris. He pushed off the bar and strode over, made invisible by his gift of alcohol.

Norris made a show of studying the newspaper as the man sat down at his table. He heard the whisper of card as it was pushed across the wood.

“Take a look, please.”

Norris did not look up. “Are you going to increase the price?” he asked, “How much is this man worth to you?”

“A lot.” The voice was low, and he heard a discordant note in it. It wasn’t anger, but he had the man’s attention; whether he was willing to play Norris’ surly game was a different matter altogether.

“Hm.” He stared unseeingly down at the paper, waiting to see what the man would do.

“But I wouldn’t insult you by offering more money,” the man continued quietly, “However, I would ask that you look.”

Sighing heavily, Norris did. The image showed a male – maybe in his late sixties, early seventies – sat easily in a chair half-smirking at the lumeretta. He had a compact build, not-quite round face with wide-set eyes, and a mane of hair too long for a fashion-conscious Empire man. The lumograph had the usual muddy shade to it, so he couldn’t make out what kind or colour the shirt was save that it was not dark.

He was ready to turn away and disavow all knowledge when he realised that he did recognise the man in question. There was something about the mouth, the insolent smile struck a shard into his memory.

But he couldn’t grasp it from the mire. Norris sucked his teeth and then stopped, realising that the stranger was reading him like a book.

“You know him.” It wasn’t a question. The fangs were extending again.

Norris drummed his fingers on the table and decided to be truthful. “There’s something I recognise,” he began, “But I cannot recall what it is. But I have seen him. And recently.”

The swirl of emotions in the man’s eyes was gone too quickly for him to read. Norris leant back in his chair, interlocking his hands. He gazed coolly upwards.

“Do I get a sixpence?” he asked.

The man smiled. He fished inside his jacket and brought out a small, embossed card. “Better,” he replied, “Here. If you do recall anything of note, please either come or write to this address. You’ll receive more than just a sixpence.”

“A whole crown, perhaps?” He did not keep the sarcasm from his tone.

The man inclined his head, acknowledging him. “Perhaps.”

[thefisherqueen]

I fell a bit behind on Letters from Watson, time to read Shoscombe old place today! :)

Sherlock Holmes had been bending for a long time over a low-power microscope. Now he straightened himself up and looked round at me in triumph. 'Holmes is not human' confirmed, but only in the sense that it is inhuman to be bend over for a long time without developing extreme back pain

“Is it one of your cases?” “No; my friend, Merivale, of the Yard, asked me to look into the case. I don't know if it just my terrible memory for names, but Merivale does not sound familiar. Which is a bit odd, a 'friend' of Holmes we don't yet know. Also strange that Watson is referring to this case as 'your case'. As a result, this case feels rather old? Like it happened long ago, when Holmes and Watson were much less intimate

Actually, more things point in that direction. Like Watson receiving a wound persion

Norberton nearly came within your province once.” “How was that?” “It was when he horsewhipped Sam Brewer, the well-known Curzon Street money-lender, on Newmarket Heath. He nearly killed the man.” “Ah, he sounds interesting! Deranged reaction from Holmes here. I love it. Also, being almost beat to death with a horsewhip sounds extremely painful. Definitely a sadist at work here. Probably only got away with this torturous attack because the dude's rich

And here, I expect, is the man who can tell us.” The door had opened and the page had shown in a tall, clean-shaven man with the firm, austere expression which is only seen upon those who have to control horses or boys. Very amused by the implication that boys behave just like horses. Also slightly bewildered by the sudden appearance of a page. Whom makes up the domestic staff of this household? We've seen occasional references to a page, maid and cook, but they pop up so irregulary that it seems like mrs. Hudson employs them to only almost immediately sack them

He bowed with cold self-possession Watson what does that mean??

“First of all, Mr. Holmes, I think that my employer, Sir Robert, has gone mad.” Holmes raised his eyebrows. “This is Baker Street, not Harley Street,” said he. From wikipedia: "Since the 19th century, the number of doctors, hospitals, and medical organisations in and around Harley Street has greatly increased. Records show that there were around 20 doctors in 1860, 80 by 1900, and almost 200 by 1914."

He thinks of nothing but the horse and the race. His whole life is on it. He's holding off the Jews till then. If the Prince fails him he is done. Always charming, jewish people being referred one to one as money loaners. I guess that makes the Robert's attack on Sam Brewer antisemitistic in nature

And she takes it to heart. She is brooding and sulky and drinking, Mr. Holmes—drinking like a fish. A large part of why I love reading older books and books not written in my native language. Expressions are sometimes so suprising and delightful - drinking like a fish is so vivid

It's all changed, Mr. Holmes, and there is something damned rotten about it. But then, again, what is master doing down at the old church crypt at night? And who is the man that meets him there?” Holmes rubbed his hands. “Go on, Mr. Mason. You get more and more interesting.” Excited autistic hand rubbing time again! :)

So, in summary, so far we've got a man who's violent, mistreats his sister, creeps around at night on some secret business, is severely in debt and utterly reliant on one outcome of a gamble to solve his financial problems. Sounds like a good cocktail for a major interferrence plot to secure the gambling outcome. Torture, murder and abduction not excluded from the possiblities

It was on that second night. Sir Robert turned and passed us—me and Stephens, quaking in the bushes like two bunny-rabbits, for there was a bit of moon that night. This makes such a good image

“There is her maid, Carrie Evans. She has been with her this five years.” “And is, no doubt, devoted?” Mr. Mason shuffled uncomfortably. “She's devoted enough,” he answered at last. “But I won't say to whom.” “Ah!” said Holmes. “I can't tell tales out of school.” I will forever be amazed by the amount of vagueness one can employ and yet for it still be understood as saying 'my master is fucking the maid'. Such creativity

We can't fit that into our plot.” “No, sir, and there is something more that I can't fit in. Why should Sir Robert want to dig up a dead body?” Holmes sat up abruptly. Way to drop a plot twist, my man

“What is the name of that inn you spoke of?” “The Green Dragon.” “Is there good fishing in that part of Berkshire?” The honest trainer showed very clearly upon his face that he was convinced that yet another lunatic had come into his harassed life. Lol. That poor man. I'm getting my hopes up for another cozy inn scene, it feels like a while ago we were treated to some good, intimate Holmes/Watson room sharing

Thus it was that on a bright May evening Holmes and I found ourselves alone in a first-class carriage So I read this fic on AO3 where Holmes and Watson also were alone in a first class carriage and they - ok, nevermind, my AO3 history is between me and my browser only

“Let us consider our data. The brother no longer visits the beloved invalid sister. He gives away her favourite dog. Her dog, Watson! Does that suggest nothing to you?” “Nothing but the brother's spite.” “Well, it might be so. Or—well, there is an alternative. Hm, let me do a poor attempt at considering the data. My best guess is that the brother - sir Robert - wants the dog out of the way for something. What do dogs do? They dig things up and like bones, which might be inconvient if you're digging up dead bodies? They bark when strangers enter the grounds at night? Considering that a stranger did enter the grounds, it might be just that Robert was concerned about the dog raising alarm on that

“But the crypt?” “Ah, yes, the crypt! Let us suppose, Watson—it is merely a scandalous supposition, a hypothesis put forward for argument's sake—that Sir Robert has done away with his sister.” Ok that does make more sense as to why the dog had to go! Of course, a dog would not be fooled by an impersonator. Nor would a horse

My dear Holmes :) :) :)

So the stranger who Mr. Mason saw was the one who's now impersonating the sister, I gather. Gods, the 'man in dress for means of evil deception' trope is old

“How far is this crypt from the house?” asked Holmes.“A good quarter of a mile.” “Then I think we can disregard him altogether.” “I can't afford to do that, Mr. Holmes. The moment he arrives he will want to see me to get the last news of Shoscombe Prince.” “I see! In that case we must work without you, Mr. Mason. You can show us the crypt and then leave us.” Always love Watson and Holmes sneaking around at night

“But why in the world would anyone want to burn the bones of a man who has been dead a thousand years?” asked John Mason. “That is what we are here to find out,” said Holmes. “It may mean a long search, and we need not detain you. I fancy that we shall get our solution before morning.” Are they actually going to open up coffins? That is some gothic shit and I'm here for it

Then, as Holmes returned no answer, he took a couple of steps forward and raised a heavy stick which he carried. “Do you hear me?” he cried. “Who are you? What are you doing here?” His cudgel quivered in the air. But instead of shrinking Holmes advanced to meet him. “I also have a question to ask you, Sir Robert,” he said in his sternest tone. “Who is this? And what is it doing here?” First: oops. Second: Holmes, for your own and Watson's sake, please avoid becoming the next corpse in that crypt

“How came you to know of this?” he cried. And then, with some return of his truculent manner: “What business is it of yours?” “My name is Sherlock Holmes,” said my companion. “Possibly it is familiar to you. In any case, my business is that of every other good citizen—to uphold the law. It seems to me that you have much to answer for.” Holmes' confrontations just are the best. Imagine being this large man with a fearsome reputation, pulling a weapon upon a stranger you find in your own crypt at night, and he just calmly confronts you with what filth he has dug about you. Scary levels of confidence there. I would be taken aback too

“‘Fore God, Mr. Holmes, it's all right,” said he. “Appearances are against me, I'll admit, but I could act no otherwise.” Wondering what excuse this violent villain will come up with

“Well, Sir Robert,” said Holmes, rising, “this matter must, of course, be referred to the police. It was my duty to bring the facts to light, and there I must leave it. Glad that Holmes will not hush up this case. That man may not have murdered his sister, but everything else he did was still out of all bounds, and only done for purely selfish reasons

It is generally known now that this singular episode ended upon a happier note than Sir Robert's actions deserved. (...) Both police and coroner took a lenient view of the transaction, and beyond a mild censure for the delay in registering the lady's decease, the lucky owner got away scatheless from this strange incident in a career which has now outlived its shadows and promises to end in an honoured old age. A rather dissapointing ending to this story, in my opinion. I guess that 'debts should not bring about personal ruin' is a rad point, just as 'don't believe all scandalous gossip', but all the rest just reads like the result of class privilege. Looking for actual work instead of just gambling to gain his own income was of course not even considered. His near deadly attack on Sam Brewer was not adressed, nor are his violent ways. Possibly Doyle considered this a realistic outcome in his time? I love, however, that both Holmes and Watson still made their contempt for this man clear

[rockislandadultreads]

Disability Pride Month: Nonfiction Recommendations

A Disability History of the United States by Kim E. Nielsen 

Disability is not just the story of someone we love or the story of whom we may become; rather it is undoubtedly the story of our nation. Covering the entirety of US history from pre-1492 to the present, A Disability History of the United States is the first book to place the experiences of people with disabilities at the center of the American narrative. In many ways, it’s a familiar telling. In other ways, however, it is a radical repositioning of US history. By doing so, the book casts new light on familiar stories, such as slavery and immigration, while breaking ground about the ties between nativism and oralism in the late nineteenth  century and the role of ableism in the development of democracy.

A Disability History of the United States pulls from primary-source documents and social histories to retell American history through the eyes, words, and impressions of the people who lived it. As historian and disability scholar Nielsen argues, to understand disability history isn’t to narrowly focus on a series of individual triumphs but rather to examine mass movements and pivotal daily events through the lens of varied experiences. Throughout the book, Nielsen deftly illustrates how concepts of disability have deeply shaped the American experience—from deciding who was allowed to immigrate to establishing labor laws and justifying slavery and gender discrimination. Included are absorbing—at times horrific—narratives of blinded slaves being thrown overboard and women being involuntarily sterilized, as well as triumphant accounts of disabled miners organizing strikes and disability rights activists picketing Washington.

Demystifying Disability by Emily Ladau

An approachable guide to being a thoughtful, informed ally to disabled people, with actionable steps for what to say and do (and what not to do) and how you can help make the world a more accessible, inclusive place.

Disabled people are the world’s largest minority, an estimated 15 percent of the global population. But many of us–disabled and non-disabled alike–don’t know how to act, what to say, or how to be an ally to the disability community. Demystifying Disability is a friendly handbook on important disability issues you need to know about, including:

• How to appreciate disability history and identity • How to recognize and avoid ableism (discrimination toward disabled people) • How to be mindful of good disability etiquette • How to appropriately think, talk, and ask about disability • How to ensure accessibility becomes your standard practice, from everyday communication to planning special events • How to identify and speak up about disability stereotypes in media

Authored by celebrated disability rights advocate, speaker, and writer Emily Ladau, this practical, intersectional guide offers all readers a welcoming place to understand disability as part of the human experience.

Born Extraordinary by Meg Zucker

Meg Zucker was born with one finger on each hand, shortened forearms, and one toe on each misshapen foot, caused by a genetic condition called ectrodactyly. She would eventually pass this condition on to her two sons, and, along with her husband, raise them and their adopted daughter, who has her own invisible differences. Born of the family’s hard-won experiences, this book offers invaluable advice on raising confident, empathetic, and resilient children who succeed, not despite but because of their differences.

Born Extraordinary helps parents of children with differences and disabilities to relinquish their instinctive anxieties, embrace their new normal, and ultimately find joy in watching their children thrive. Often the subjects of unwanted attention—ranging from pitying stares to bullying—Zucker and her sons have learned to ignore what others think and live fearlessly. Also incorporating the stories of other families with visible and invisible differences of all kinds, Born Extraordinary gives parents the tools to meet their children’s emotional needs while supporting the whole family unit. Parents learn how best to empower their children to confront others’ assumptions, grow in confidence, and encourage dialogue—rather than silence, fear, and shame—around difference.

Enabling Acts by Lennard J. Davis

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is the widest-ranging and most comprehensive piece of civil rights legislation ever passed in the United States, and it has become the model for disability-based laws around the world. Yet the surprising story behind how the bill came to be is little known.

In this riveting account, acclaimed disability scholar Lennard J. Davis delivers the first on-the-ground narrative of how a band of leftist Berkeley hippies managed to make an alliance with upper-crust, conservative Republicans to bring about a truly bipartisan bill. Based on extensive interviews with all the major players involved including legislators and activists, Davis recreates the dramatic tension of a story that is anything but a dry account of bills and speeches. Rather, it’s filled with one indefatigable character after another, culminating in explosive moments when the hidden army of the disability community stages scenes like the iconic “Capitol Crawl” or an event when students stormed Gallaudet University demanding a “Deaf President Now!”

From inside the offices of newly formed disability groups to secret breakfast meetings surreptitiously held outside the White House grounds, here we meet countless unsung characters, including political heavyweights and disability advocates on the front lines. “You want to fight?” an angered Ted Kennedy would shout in an upstairs room at the Capitol while negotiating the final details of the ADA. Congressman Tony Coelho, whose parents once thought him to be possessed by the devil because of his epilepsy, later became the bill’s primary sponsor. There’s Justin Dart, adorned in disability power buttons and his signature cowboy hat, who took to the road canvassing 50 states, and people like Patrisha Wright, also known as “The General,” Arlene Myerson or “the brains,” “architect” Bob Funk, and visionary Mary Lou Breslin, who left the hippie highlands of the West to pursue equal rights in the marble halls of DC.

[mynameisgoliath]

One day I was standing on the side of a road that passes by the the main shopping AND tourist centre in Jerusalem and culminates at the Western Wall. It was, as I'm sure you can imagine, full of cars.

A tourist stopped to ask me directions. I chatted with her a bit, and then she asked me how Israelis get around. Do they all use camels?

She couldn't see a Middle Eastern country using cars and so, in her head, all those cars passing by belonged to tourists.

That sounds weird, and it is, but, while it was the weirdest question I got it wasn’t the only one in a similar vein: Do you have running water? Do you have electricity, air conditioners? Do children all ride donkeys to school?

The majority of the people asking these questions were Christian and all were from Europe, the US, or Australia.

Those type of tourists are also likely to donate money to Israel.

So where is this discrepancy coming from?

I think there are two things.

1. Christians need Jews in Israel so their prophecy of the Second Coming and the End of Days can come true. Simple and well-know.

However, I think there's also a second reason that affects also non-Christians and people on both sides of the political spectrum:

2. The idea of the Noble Savage.

That idea mostly described Native Americans in Western literature, though it branched out sometimes to describe other people who weren't Western/European.

What is this trope?

The idea that the native person is in touch with nature and so has an innate goodness/innocence/naivete that a 'civilized' person from the West doesn't have.

But of course they're still a savage and Western civilization is better which lets it triumph.

How do I think this trope affects Westerners in regards to Israel?

1. (Evangelical often but not only) Christians view Jews as a sort of historical version of this: Jews have innate ties to the history of Christianity since Christianity developed off of Judaism, but obviously Christianity is better and more civilized.*

2. Pro-Palestinian Westerners view Palestinians as people with native ties to the Land, but they need help fighting against the Big Bad Westerners (the Jews).** Sometimes they don't even know what's good for them and the Westerners have to step in.

*These can both affect people who don't fit (perfectly) into these categories. For instance, the insistence by Western animal rights activists and/or vegans that Kosher and Halal slaughtering is cruel, despite the fact that the animal must be healthy and killed in one slice, is an effect of the first category.

**Palestinians do have ties to the land, I'm not here to deny that. Jews also have ties to the land. This post isn't about who is more right (false dichotomy) but about how Westerners biases about the Middle East, Israel, Jews and Arabs affects how they look at this subject.

[grandhotelabyss]

Did you ever read anything by Sir Walter Scott or James Fenimore Cooper? A lot of writers cite them as an influence but they have a reputation nowadays (earned or not, idk) as turgid unreadable garbage.

I read Scott's Waverley in graduate school so I could familiarize myself with the "founding" work of historical fiction and better understand the key theoretical text on the genre, Lukács's Historical Novel. (I wrote a dissertation chapter on Walter Pater's Marius the Epicurean, which is nominally a historical novel, but not really. It's more a modernist novel of consciousness and a lyric essay on the rise of Christianity out of late antiquity. I'm not sure grasping "the historical novel" as some abstract concept is very important to understand it.)

If you read Waverley through the eyes of a graduate student, there is much in there of cultural-studies interest. The story qua story—the defeat of the Scottish clans at the Jacobite uprising and the triumph of modernity, symbolized by the titular hero's romantic choice of the bland, blonde, domestic Rose for his wife over the raven-haired warrior-queen Flora—is moving, majestic, and elegiac. I see why it was such effective entertainment for about a century's worth of readers.

But yes, by our standards, the narrative method is hard to endure: the diffuse discourse of a digressive, prolix, sometimes even facetious storyteller who blunts the emotional impact of the tale. It's no Cormac McCarthy. It's not even, to cite Scott's contemporaries, Jane Austen or Stendhal. "Turgid" is a good word for it. Still, I know I have to read Ivanhoe someday!

And it's also true that Scott's inception of the historical novel, with its portrayal of history as an organic continuum encompassing the whole of society and not just an inert background for the acts of great men (as it is, for example, in Shakespeare), can't be overstated for its influence, including on the development of the realist novel with a present-day setting. Scott is behind Balzac, Hawthorne, Dickens, Tolstoy, George Eliot, etc.

As for Cooper, I think everything I said about Scott applies to him, too, with even the narrative materials being similar—replace the Scottish clans with the Native American tribes—but I confess I've only read as much Cooper as was excerpted in the Norton Anthology.

[mishijl]

HISTORY

hello, I am Myiesha Hanne Cortes Quiban from Grade 6-Faith, I like learning, History, Geography, Politics and culture. and I will introduce you Napoleon Bonaparte History is the study of change over time, and it covers all aspects of human society. Political, social, economic, scientific, technological, medical, cultural, intellectual, religious and military developments are all part of history.

later known by his regnal name Napoleon I, was a French military commander and political leader who rose to prominence during the French Revolution and led successful campaigns during the Revolutionary war. He was the leader of the French Republic as First Consul from 1799 to 1804, then of the French Empire as Emperor of the French from 1804 until 1814, and briefly again in 1815. His political and cultural legacy endures as a celebrated and controversial leader. He initiated many enduring reforms, but has been criticized for his authoritarian rule. He is considered one of the greatest military commanders in history, although historians still debate whether he was responsible for the Napoleonic Wars in which between three and six million people died.

Napoleon was born on the island of Corsica into a family descending from Italian nobility. He was resentful of the French monarchy, and supported the French Revolution in 1789 while serving in the French army, trying to spread its ideals to his native Corsica. He rose rapidly in the ranks after saving the governing French Directory by firing on royalist insurgents. In 1796, he began a military campaign against the Austrians and their Italian allies, scoring decisive victories, and became a national hero. Two years later he led a military expedition to Egypt that served as a springboard to political power. He engineered a coup in November 1799 and became First Consul of the Republic. In 1804, to consolidate and expand his power, he crowned himself Emperor of the French.

Differences with the United Kingdom meant France faced the War of the Third Coalition by 1805. Napoleon shattered this coalition with victories in the Ulm campaign and at the Battle of Austerlitz, which led to the dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire. In 1806, the Fourth Coalition took up arms against him. Napoleon defeated Prussia at the battles of Jena and Austerlitz , marched the Grande Armée into Eastern Europe, and defeated the Russians in June 1807 at Friedland, forcing the defeated nations of the Fourth Coalition to accept the Treaties of Tilsit. Two years later, the Austrians challenged the French again during the War of the Fifth Coalition, but Napoleon solidified his grip over Europe after triumphing at the Battle of Wagram.

Hoping to extend the Continental System, his embargo against Britain, Napoleon invaded the Iberian Peninsula and declared his brother Joseph the King of Spain in 1808. The Spanish and the Portuguese revolted in the Peninsular War aided by a British army, culminating in defeat for Napoleon's marshals. Napoleon launched an invasion of Russia in the summer of 1812. The resulting campaign witnessed the catastrophic retreat of Napoleon's Grande Armée. In 1813, Prussia and Austria joined Russian forces in a Sixth Coalition against France, resulting in a large coalition army defeating Napoleon at the Battle of Leipzig. The coalition invaded France and captured Paris, forcing Napoleon to abdicate in April 1814. He was exiled to the island of Elba, between Corsica and Italy. In France, the Bourbons were restored to power.

Napoleon escaped in February 1815 and took control of France. The Allies responded by forming a Seventh Coalition, which defeated Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo in June 1815. The British exiled him to the remote island of Saint Helena in the Atlantic, where he died in 1821 at the age of 51.

Napoleon had a lasting impact on the world, bringing modernizing reforms to France and Western Europe and stimulating the development of nation states. He also sold the Louisiana Territory to the United States in 1803, doubling the size of the United States. However, his exploitation of conquered territories, mixed record on civil rights, reintroduction of slavery in France's colonies, and repression of the Haitian Revolution are controversial and adversely affect his reputation. and that's all I hope you enjoyed it thank you

[rachelbethhines]

60 Years of Doctor Who Anniversary Marathon - C. Baker 4th Review

Mission to Magnus - Novel

So we talked last time about season 23's hiatus and the hasty re-writes that were forced upon the crew in exchange for letting the series continue.

Well years later, the Target range contacted the authors of the abandoned scripts and asked if they would adapt them into a novel format. Basically creating Target novelizations for stories that never saw air time.

Mission to Magnus is is one such script.

Let's get the positives out of the way first.

This really does feel like a lost serial from the Sixth Doctor's era, warts and all.

This means that everyone is in character. Peri and the Doctor come across exactly like they do on screen. All of the villains and side characters feel like the stepped right out of the 80s. Sil is still Sil. And the plot just has that same, "barely hangs together" post-modern/crass humor vibe that is indicative of the era.

Which might be the very thing that holds the story back.

The plot just doesn't gel together that well, and it often feels like the writer is struggling to find a direction or a even a point.

The story starts with the Doctor being lured into a trap by his old childhood bully from the Academy. He's still traumatized by those events and has to learn to over come his fear.

Which would be a very interesting and relatable story if it was handled with any care, but it isn't. The Doctor just reverts to comedic child like blubbering instead of the way adults would normally process such trauma. Adults do not show fear the same way children would, and even if still scared, they wouldn't face off against their childhood bullies the same as if they were six years old still.

There is the added problem of said bully not being any a threat in any real way. He orders the Doctor to take his place within a trap, (even though technically the Doctor would outrank him as President, and both of them should know that) and then proceeds not to question who set that trap. Especially since he was invited to the planet by the people who live there.

Then the bully is easily captured again by the natives. Where upon he is bullied himself into revealing the secrets of time travel to them. When the Doctor finally confronts his nemesis the character has been reduced to such a pathetic state that it hardly feels like a triumph.

He is then easily dispatched and never heard from again through out the rest of the story… and that's all in the first third of the fist act. Like what was even the point of introducing such a plot line if your weren't going to develop it.

Then there's the Ice Warriors, who despite being on the front cover really feel like an after thought that was just thrown in there. They're apparently pitting two different worlds against each other so that they might divide and conquer both in secret.

Which on the surface isn't too terrible an idea, but it's paired with a ridiculous climate change plot involving orbits of the planets rather then just changing the atmosphere. Which in turn is the only reason to justify their use in the plot as they are written to be the same as any other monster of the week baddie… ignoring what made them stand out in the first place.

Which leads to the final and perhaps biggest complaint about the story… the battle between the sexes. Each of the two worlds are supposed to be dominated by the opposite sex, with both holding backwards attitudes towards the other.

The problem is we don't get to see both societies in action. We only see the female led civilization being totalitarian and oppressive. When we meet members of the male led society they are being held captive by the ice warriors and work willing with the Doctor an Peri to fight the monsters.

This means that when the men insult the ruler of the women led world it looks like justified clap-back for the women's mistreatment of others, rather then the sexist diatribe that it is.

Worst the narration insists that the men are talking with the women 'as equals' for the first time, but the dialogue and attitudes displayed therein is anything but equal treatment.

Also, once the Ice Warriors are defeated, and the female led society need to rebuild, the men offer their assistance, not out of any goodwill or decency but in exchange for enslaving the women as their 'wives'… effectively conquering the planet as their own anyways and this is played off as a joke?

It's important to point out that none of the women actually agree to this arrangement, yet everyone from off planet, including the Doctor, just accepts this as an inevitable fact of life… and sneaks off while they're arguing rather then trying to come up with a fairer alliterative.

What!?

I can only assume that the author intended this to be a parody of the Amazonian women trope, but it's so poorly presented that it winds up being even more offensive then when the show first played the trope straight back in the 60s with Galaxy Four.

I'll be honest, as unfair as Grade's treatment of JNT and Colin Baker was, I'm kind of glad that this never made it to screen as I don't trust that the production team back then would have managed the all the re-writes that the scripted definitely needed.

This is, on a purely technical level, the weakest of the novels I've read for the marathon. Which is a shame as there are things hidden in here to like. Oh well, at least it was short.

[linuxgamenews]

Bridge Constructor Studio Offers Creative Gameplay

Bridge Constructor Studio the ultimate engineering puzzle and creative sandbox game, is due to release on Linux, Mac, and Windows PC, with a Demo. Thanks to the nonstop creativite fun and inventive developer ClockStone. Which is due to make its way onto Steam. Listen up, fellow penguin-powered gamers! Strap in, crank up your favorite synthwave playlist, and picture this: you’re standing on the edge of a yawning canyon. A rumble echoes in the distance—a monster truck, all chrome and attitude, is barrelling toward a gap only you can close. Your fingers twitch over mouse and keyboard. So, it’s time to sculpt steel, stretch cables like guitar strings, and pray to the physics gods. Welcome to Bridge Constructor Studio, the newest sandbox of pure, unfiltered engineering chaos. Due to it’s roll onto Linux (plus Mac and Windows) on July 17th.

Why You Should Care (A.K.A. My Pulse Just Spiked)

ClockStone (yeah, the crew who let us torment stick-figurine drivers for over a decade) and Headup have mashed the gas and ditched the training wheels. Remember sweating over budgets in older Bridge Constructor games? Gone. Here, in this the ultimate engineering puzzle and creative sandbox, your only limit is imagination. Okay, maybe gravity’s relentless thirst for drama. But if you’re the thrifty type, the devs still tempt you with sweet extra rewards for holding costs under a set cap. Since bragging rights taste better when earned in Bridge Constructor Studio.

70 Puzzles, Five Biomes, Infinite Screams

70 handcrafted brain-benders—each one a fresh chance to cackle in triumph or howl at spectacular collapses.

Five gorgeous biomes: soar between city skyscrapers, tip-toe above icy ravines, weave through rolling green valleys, and more. Since every backdrop is a postcard you’ll probably decorate with twisted rebar or flaming buses.

Seven vehicles, seven flavors of panic: from a wobbly three-wheeler pizza van to a hulking timber transporter. Want Hollywood mayhem? Build ramps and loops for the monster truck and watch it somersault like your GPU temps after a driver update.

Bridge Constructor Studio - Announcement Trailer

Your Bridge Constructor Studio Toolbox of Doom

Wood for charm, steel for brawn, cables for that “just one more strand” suspense, and concrete pillars that feel like mini skyscrapers. Roadways tie it all together—unless you swap them out mid-air while laughing as delivery trucks vault the gap like caffeinated kangaroos.

Share the Madness, Save the Friendships

Up to five separate player profiles mean your meticulous megastructure won’t get nuked when your roommate hops on to “just try a quick idea.” Everyone gets their own campaign save, so blame for catastrophic failures stays beautifully compartmentalized.

Try Bridge Constructor Studio Right Now (Yes, on Linux!)

Still skeptical? There’s a native Linux demo live on Steam as we speak. Fire up Proton? Nah, you’re running this baby pure—no wrappers, no compromises. Give this demo a whirl, then come back and tell me how many buses you sent plummeting into pixel-water before figuring out that one, tiny missing cable.

Mark the Calendar, Clear the Queue

July 17th is D-Day for the structural engineering puzzle and creative sandbox game on Steam. Whether you’re a seasoned bridge baron or a first-timer who just likes loud crashes, Bridge Constructor Studio is shaping up to be the sandbox our distros deserve. So preload it, summon your inner civil engineer, and let’s see whose bridge holds… and whose explodes in glorious slow-mo GIFs destined for r/ValveLinux fame. So grab your hard hat, friends—another physics-fueled addiction is nearly upon us, and my SSD is already humming with anticipation. See you in the rubble!

[miguelmikemirabal]

Echoes of the Past: How Historical Monuments Educate and Inspire Young Minds

Historical monuments rise across cities, towns, and remote landscapes as enduring witnesses of humanity’s journey. These structures, whether grand in scale or modest in design, serve a purpose far beyond aesthetics. They tell stories of courage, resilience, conflict, and transformation. They offer future generations a powerful and immersive way to connect with history. In a time when digital media often dominates learning, the importance of historical monuments as educational and inspirational tools remains unparalleled.

A Tangible Connection to the Past

Historical monuments offer something no textbook or online resource can—tangibility. They bring history to life in a concrete, physical form that engages the senses and emotions. Walking through an old battlefield, standing beneath a memorial arch, or touching the stones of an ancient structure can create a sense of connection that words on a page rarely achieve. These experiences make the past feel accurate and relevant, allowing students and young people to grasp the significance of events and individuals who shaped their world.

This physical presence of history fosters a deeper understanding of complex subjects. It turns dates and facts into stories with real emotions and consequences. When young people visit the sites where history unfolded, they often develop a personal sense of curiosity and respect for what came before. This curiosity can lead to further exploration, prompting questions and discussions that go far beyond the scope of traditional education.

Building Cultural Awareness and Identity

Monuments are potent markers of cultural heritage. They reflect a community's values, struggles, and triumphs and play a key role in forming identity. For young people, especially, understanding their cultural background is crucial to building a sense of self. Monuments help answer questions about who they are, where they come from, and what stories have shaped their society.

In the United States, monuments commemorate everything from Native American heritage and early colonial settlements to the fight for civil rights and the sacrifices of soldiers in war. These structures remind visitors that the nation’s history is multifaceted and diverse. They showcase achievements and painful chapters, teaching young minds that history is not always easy but necessary to understand.

Engaging with these sites helps students develop a broader and more inclusive view of the past. They learn to appreciate the contributions of different communities and understand how those contributions have helped build the world they live in today. This knowledge fosters empathy, respect, and a stronger sense of unity within society.

Monuments as Educational Resources

Educators increasingly recognize the role monuments can play in enriching history lessons. A well-planned visit to a historical site can serve as a springboard for interdisciplinary learning. Students can explore history, architecture, art, literature, and even science through the lens of a monument’s design and construction. Many historical sites now offer educational programs tailored for schools, complete with guided tours, workshops, and interactive exhibits.

These experiences allow students to leave the traditional classroom and immerse themselves in hands-on, memorable learning. They are encouraged to ask questions, analyze symbols, and think critically about the narratives presented. This engagement helps them develop essential skills such as analysis, communication, and interpretation.

Moreover, monuments often tell stories that are not found in standard textbooks. They highlight lesser-known events and figures, giving voice to those who might have been overlooked by mainstream history. This exposure to a more complete and nuanced version of history is invaluable for future generations.

Inspiration Found in Stone and Story

Beyond education, historical monuments also have the power to inspire. They are reminders of human resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of justice. Whether it’s a monument to a civil rights leader, a memorial to victims of war, or a sculpture honoring a scientific pioneer, these structures offer examples of individuals and communities that overcame significant challenges.

Such stories can spark a sense of motivation in young people. They see that ordinary individuals can make extraordinary differences. This realization can fuel their ambitions and help them find purpose. When students visit a monument and hear about someone who stood up for what was right, created something enduring, or sacrificed for the greater good, they often leave with hope and determination.

This inspiration is significant in today’s world, where young people face unprecedented social, environmental, and political challenges. Monuments can serve as beacons, reminding them that progress is possible and that they, too, can contribute to building a better future.

Understanding Complexity and Encouraging Dialogue

Not all monuments represent moments of triumph. Some commemorate painful or controversial events. These monuments offer an essential opportunity for young people to engage with challenging aspects of history. They encourage thoughtful dialogue about justice, memory, and change. For instance, discussions about Confederate monuments in the United States have sparked nationwide conversations about racism, historical memory, and the role of public spaces in shaping societal values.

By confronting these topics, students develop a more mature understanding of history. They learn that history is not black and white but complex and contextual. They begin to see how interpretations of the past can evolve, depending on who is telling the story and from what perspective. Encouraging these conversations helps students become critical thinkers who can engage respectfully with differing views and contribute to a more informed society.

The Importance of Preservation

As much as historical monuments serve as tools for education and inspiration, they are also vulnerable. Time, weather, neglect, and political conflict can threaten their existence. It is vital to teach young people the importance of preservation. Understanding that monuments need care and stewardship ensures that future generations can also learn from and be inspired by them.

Schools, museums, and communities can involve students in preservation efforts, from volunteer clean-ups to educational campaigns. These activities help young people take ownership of their shared heritage and recognize their responsibility in passing it on. Preservation is not just about maintaining stone and metal but about protecting the stories, values, and lessons embedded within them.

A Living Legacy for Tomorrow’s Leaders

Historical monuments are far more than tourist attractions. They are dynamic educational spaces and enduring sources of inspiration. They speak to the past while shaping the future, offering lessons essential for developing young minds. Whether they prompt admiration, reflection, or debate, they invite the next generation to engage with history meaningfully.

As we continue to evolve as a society, the stories told by monuments become even more critical. They remind us of where we have been, help us understand where we are, and guide us toward where we want to go. Through education, preservation, and dialogue, these monuments will continue illuminating the path forward for those willing to listen to their silent wisdom.

[ardl]

In the first two chapters of Wretched, Fanon emphasizes that (armed) "violence" is essential to the initiation and maintenance of colonialism, e.g., "Their first encounter was marked by violence and their existence together-that is to say, the exploitation of the native by the settler-was carried on by dint of a great array of bayonets and cannon." (1.2) He also sets out to show how-and why-(armed) "violence" is also a necessary means for rhe success ful pursuit of national and social revolution, because decolonization "can only triumph if we use all means to turn the scale, including, of course, that of [armed] violence." (1.5) (my emphasis) Since the publication of Wretched, people have read those and similar lines, and come away with a narrow or one-sided concept of "violence"; they've read the first two chapters and come away with little more than a belief in the need to "pick up the gun." The people of Africa have suffered for this. We've suffered for it, and our children and grandchildren suffer for it today. Too many of us still fail to understand that the underlying aim of social revolution is to promote a change in people and to assist the development of political and social consciousness. Everything else that We usually associate with "revolution" or "national liberation" comes through and after change in people's consciousness! Meditate on "all means"-most people read that line, and by the time they get to the last word in the sentence (violence), they've totally forgotten the "all means"! Consequently, what they come away with is something like: "Decolonization can only succeed if We use armed violence," and this reading and understanding leaves something out, and the absence proves itself in subsequent practice. The use of all means demands theory and practice on all levels and in all social spheres. Our job is to determine how to do this based on the conditions that We find in our own social reality, especially as We want to move from a "low tide" to a "high tide." Our job is to acquire an understanding of the weak links in the system of oppression that binds us in the 21st century U.S.A., where revolution has " failed" not once, but several times before.

Meditations on Frantz Fanon's The Wretched of the Earth James "Yaki" Sayles

[boyertownareahistoricalsociety]

Boyertown Area Historical Society

Exploring Boyertown's Rich Past: The Boyertown Area Historical Society

In the heart of Boyertown, Pennsylvania, a charming town known for its small-town warmth and historic character, the Boyertown Area Historical Society plays a vital role in preserving and celebrating the region's unique past. Established to honor the legacy of the people, events, and industries that shaped Boyertown and its surrounding areas, the historical society is both a guardian of history and an active participant in community life.

A Mission Rooted in Preservation and Education

The Boyertown Area Historical Society was founded with a clear purpose: to collect, preserve, and interpret the historical and cultural heritage of the Boyertown area. From its early days as a rural settlement to its growth during the industrial boom of the 19th and early 20th centuries, Boyertown’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and community spirit.

The society maintains an extensive archive of historical documents, photographs, artifacts, and genealogical records. These collections are available to researchers, students, and anyone interested in uncovering the stories of local families, businesses, and historical events. Through meticulous preservation and thoughtful presentation, the organization ensures that Boyertown’s past remains accessible for generations to come.

A Historic Building with a Story of Its Own

The Boyertown Area Historical Society is housed in a beautifully maintained historic structure that dates back to the 1800s. The building itself is a reflection of the town’s architectural legacy and offers an immersive environment for visitors. Stepping inside feels like walking through a portal to another time, where the walls hold echoes of the lives and moments that defined the town.

The building features permanent and rotating exhibits that highlight various aspects of the area's history, from early Native American presence to the arrival of European settlers, the rise of local industries, and the influence of railroads. Detailed displays of domestic life, military service, education, and civic development tell a vivid story of how Boyertown evolved into the community it is today.

Community-Focused Events and Programming

One of the most engaging aspects of the Boyertown Area Historical Society is its year-round calendar of events that connect history with community participation. These programs are designed to be educational, interactive, and enjoyable for audiences of all ages. From historical reenactments and lectures to seasonal festivals and walking tours, each event is crafted to bring local history to life.

Popular events often include guest speakers on topics such as genealogy, antique preservation, and local folklore. The society also hosts open house days where visitors can explore the archives and exhibits at their own pace. Special programming for school groups and youth organizations helps instill a sense of pride and curiosity about local heritage in the younger generation.

Genealogy Resources for Family Historians

For those exploring their roots, the historical society offers a treasure trove of genealogical resources. Local census records, family histories, cemetery listings, church records, and school rosters provide invaluable tools for tracing ancestry in the Boyertown area. Whether you’re a professional genealogist or a hobbyist just getting started, the research support available through the society can help illuminate family connections and personal stories.

Staffed by knowledgeable volunteers and historians, the society also assists with research inquiries, helping visitors locate specific records or piece together information from multiple sources. The personalized attention offered here sets it apart as a welcoming place for historical discovery.

Preserving Tragedy and Triumph: The Rhoads Opera House Fire

Among the most impactful chapters in Boyertown’s history is the Rhoads Opera House Fire of 1908, a devastating event that claimed the lives of 170 people and left an indelible mark on the community. The Boyertown Area Historical Society plays an essential role in documenting and honoring this tragedy through carefully curated exhibits, survivor stories, and archival materials.

By remembering the lives lost and the changes that followed—including significant reforms in fire safety and building codes—the society ensures that the event is not forgotten. It is a poignant example of how history, even in its darkest moments, can inspire progress and resilience.

A Collaborative Spirit

While the Boyertown Area Historical Society is an independent organization, its impact is amplified through collaboration with local schools, businesses, and civic groups. These partnerships allow the society to broaden its reach and deepen its engagement with the community. Joint projects might include educational exhibits, historic preservation efforts, or community beautification initiatives that celebrate the town’s heritage.

Support from local residents, through membership, donations, and volunteerism, sustains the organization’s activities and fuels its ability to grow. Volunteers contribute not just time but passion—guiding tours, curating displays, maintaining records, and helping with special events.

Celebrating Local Industry and Innovation

Boyertown’s history is also rich in industrial accomplishments. Once a hub for carriage manufacturing and later automobile production, the town has long been known for its craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit. The historical society celebrates this legacy through exhibits and programs that highlight local businesses, artisans, and inventors who helped put Boyertown on the map.

Artifacts from past businesses, vintage machinery, and period advertisements provide insight into how industry shaped the local economy and culture. These stories of ingenuity and hard work reflect the enduring pride residents have in their town's history.

Looking Toward the Future with Historical Perspective

While the focus of the Boyertown Area Historical Society is preserving the past, its work is very much about the future. By keeping the town’s heritage alive, the organization ensures that future generations will understand where they come from and what has shaped their identity. It helps new residents feel connected to the town’s legacy, and gives longtime families a sense of continuity and belonging.

As Boyertown continues to grow and change, the historical society remains a vital link between yesterday and tomorrow—a place where the past informs the present and inspires a shared vision for the future.

A Must-Visit for History Enthusiasts

Whether you're a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, the Boyertown Area Historical Society offers an enriching experience that connects you with the heart and history of the region. It’s a place where stories come to life, where community bonds are strengthened, and where the spirit of Boyertown endures.

Please support the business of one of our partners.

43 S Chestnut St, Boyertown, PA 19512, United States

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[desmon1995]

Hamilton, assimilation, and the myth of the model minority

From the moment Alexander Hamilton steps onto the stage, he is a man in search of belonging. A penniless immigrant from the Caribbean, he claws his way to the top of the fledgling American political system, armed with little more than intellect, ambition, and an unshakable belief in meritocracy. His story, as told in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton, has often been celebrated as an anthem of immigrant perseverance—proof that in America, those who work the hardest will be rewarded.

But look closer, and Hamilton is less a triumph of the immigrant dream than a cautionary tale about its limits. Hamilton’s defining flaw is not his hubris or his temper, but his desperate need to be accepted by the very system that will never fully embrace him. In his relentless pursuit of legitimacy—of a seat at the table—he becomes not just a participant in the American experiment but a willing enforcer of its status quo. And yet, despite his service, his sacrifices, and his brilliance, he remains an outsider, reduced to a myth only after his death.

Hamilton from My Shot onwards goes on a very uncomfortable and arguably sickening patriotic crusade.

He's always trying to prove himself to the powers that be in hopes that he can one day join their ranks and be considered as somebody in this new thing called the United States of America.

However, time and time again people like jefferson, not a thing, and even Burr remind Hamilton that his posturing as their equal is conditional at best.

Hamilton’s fatal flaw is not just his ambition but his inability to recognize that his supposed allies see him as useful, not equal.

Even Aaron Burr, who initially appears to be a cordial acquaintance, gradually develops a deep-seated resentment towards Hamilton. This animosity stems from Burr's perception that Hamilton, an immigrant and minority, is receiving opportunities that he, a native-born American, feels he deserves. Burr's sentiment reflects a toxic mix of xenophobia, elitism, and entitlement, which ultimately fuels his rivalry with Hamilton.

It's striking how Alexander Hamilton's character evolves throughout the musical. Initially, he's portrayed as a radical thinker, openly opposed to slavery and eager to challenge the status quo. However, as the story unfolds, he undergoes a transformation, gradually compromising his politics, family values, and personal morals in pursuit of the American Dream. Ironically, he by the end of the musical has become a convergent version of Aaron Burr.

In the end, Hamilton does carve out a seat at the table, but at a devastating cost. His political career implodes in scandal, his personal life crumbles, and in the final insult, he dies not in a grand battle of ideals, but in a petty duel with Burr. In life, his achievements are met with resistance, his brilliance overshadowed by his immigrant status. But in death, he is repurposed into something more palatable: the model minority, the immigrant success story, the patriot who proved that anyone can make it in America.

Hamilton now that he's deceased is finally accepted into the American canon, but as a tool to carve out the myth of what happens when you make it in America while simultaneously wiping out any of the real life struggles and misfortunes that not only he faced but how Americans at the time treated him and in some cases pushed him to do.

The hidden Factor about Hamilton is that the character we see in the musical is not actually him, it's a recollection of the man based on those who knew him be they enemies or otherwise, so we're essentially watching a hyperbolic caricature running around the stage.

Dead man tell no tales and because of that their narratives can be co-opted by their ops and they can be made to represent things that they likely would never avow but that's the name of the game when it comes to American mythology as well as propaganda.

Hamilton does not tell the story of an immigrant who wins. It tells the story of an immigrant who spends his entire life trying to win, only to be accepted on terms he would never have chosen. The lesson is not one of perseverance, but of caution: America does not reward those who fight for a seat at the table—it uses them, and when they are gone, it rewrites their story to suit its own needs.

and nearly a decade later, we are still seeing stuff like this play out before our very eyes with many migrants trying to fit into very conservative spaces in hopes that this would be a benefactor to their livelihood without realizing what's awaiting them on the other side of that pipeline.

https://www.vice.com/en/article/the-good-immigrant/