Historical Highlights #045

This week’s historical highlights touch on World War I, Sir Thomas More, sliced bread, Metis archaeology, St. George, and mermaids. I hope one of these links catches your interest!

Letters written by British soldiers on the eve of the Battle of the Somme have been released to mark its centenary — these are heartbreaking.

historical_highlights_045_1
Albert Baker. Photograph: Imperial War Museum

Another milestone this year is the 500th anniversary of the publication of Sir Thomas More’s Utopia. Read the British Library’s post about More’s execution (July 6, 1535) here.

historical_highlights_045_2
Sir Thomas More by Hans Holbein the Younger, The Frick Collection, New York

On July 7, 1928 sliced bread went on sale for the first time!

When you think of archaeology, do you picture excavating ruins in exotic countries? This blog post on Metis archaeology will give you food for thought.

This article includes a roundup of the best picture books about St George and the dragon.

historical_highlights_045_3
A scene from Louie Stowell and John Joven’s faithful version of St George and the Dragon. Illustration: John Joven

Finally, are mermaids real?

Enjoy the weekend, everyone!

Leave a Reply