" There's too much tendency to attribute to God the evils that man does of his own free will. "
Agatha Christie

Back in the day


15th Amendment to the US Constitution Ratified

Ratified during the post-Civil War Reconstruction Period, the main purpose of the 15th Amendment to the US Constitution was to enfranchise former slaves. It states: "The right of citizens…to vote shall not be denied or abridged…on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude." Though the amendment's purpose was not fully achieved until 1965, the first African American to exercise this right did so the day after the amendment was ratified by participating in what election?



Miracle Fruit

The idea that a slice of fresh lemon could taste sweet may seem ludicrous, but the berry of the Synsepalum dulcificum plant, also known as miracle fruit, can make that a reality. When eaten, the small red berry releases a glycoprotein called miraculin, which binds to the tongue's taste buds and makes bitter and sour foods consumed over the next few hours taste sweet. Researchers are working to develop a miracle fruit sweetener that could benefit people suffering from what disorder?

Born on a day like today


Hugo Junkers

Junkers was a pioneering German engineer who held many patents for his original developments in the fields of gas engine and aircraft design. He had innovative ideas about metal airplanes and flying wings, but the realities of war hampered his ability to develop them. Shortly before World War II, his company was taken over by the Nazis, and Junkers, a pacifist and a socialist, was sentenced to house arrest and died soon after. What was the "Sheetmetal Donkey"?

Last updated on Wednesday, 3rd February 2010

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