Where did our calendar system come from? The answer involves the sun, moon, and stars—with a dose of Roman Catholicism, colonialism, and globalization.
Author Archives: Aspen Moore
Christmas Stockings
Why do we hang oversized socks on our mantels on Christmas Eve? The answer involves marriage dowries, competition for with Christmas trees, and jolly old Saint Nicholas.
The History of Gingerbread
Where does gingerbread come from, and why is it called that? The answer involves the crusades, witchcraft, and taxation without representation.
Where Do Vampires Come From?
Where do vampires come from?
The answer takes us on a journey to India, Serbia, and Romania, with a pit stop in Forks, Washington.
Where Did the Continents Get Their Names?
Where did each of the seven continents get their names? The answer involves the sunrise and sunset, a big bear and a little bear, and three mythological queens.
Rubber Duckie, You’re the One
What exactly is the function of a rubber duck? The answer involves debtor’s prison, hunting practice, and the Billboard 100.
Round Robin
Why is a tournament where each team plays the other in turn called a round robin? The answer involves ribbons, religious refugees, and ringleaders.
I Threw a Wish in a Well
Why do we throw coins into fountains and wells in hopes of a wish being granted? The answer involves the law of contagion, a supermarket for the poor, and the undying hope of humanity.
Who Was St. Patrick?
Who was St. Patrick? The answer involves pirates, snakes, and revelatory dreams.
Who Was Saint Valentine?
We celebrate Valentine’s Day in honor of Saint Valentine every year on February 14th—but who is the legend behind the holiday? The answer is uncertain, really, but it involves miraculous healing, secret marriage ceremonies, and beekeeping.
All the Whyser 