A friend sent this to me and I thought it too funny / horrible / ridiculous not to share with all of you. During WWII, a particularly racist day and age, there existed a "Pocket Guide To China" which were given to American … [Read more...]
Hey, heard of the Black Death? This delightful plague wiped out half the European population during the 14th century, and was caused by Yersinia pestis. So fatal was this modest bacterium it was once used as biological … [Read more...]
When most people think of Japan, a few images stick out in their head: things like cherry blossoms, Mt. Fuji, and Kinkaku-ji. You might not know the name Kinkaku-ji (金閣寺), but you're almost certainly seen pictures of … [Read more...]
Most everyone's initial exposure to ninja comes from anything but a legitimate source. The first time many of us see a ninja, it's either in a movie or an anime or a video game. However, most all popular media doesn't … [Read more...]
Over the last couple of months, I've developed a minor obsession with North Korea. I've devoured documentaries (like the excellent Vice documentary) and books (like the amazing Nothing to Envy) and I'm just astounded by … [Read more...]
Do people ever say you're a selfish person? Do you find yourself eating cookies every time you desire them? Well guess what, you lucky duck? You're on the short path towards getting yourself reborn as a "Hungry Ghost," aka … [Read more...]