Perpetual Learning
It’s fascinating to witness the current fervor surrounding advancements in AI architectures. We’re hearing claims of ‘100x faster reasoning,’ echoing the breathless excitement that accompanied earlier technological leaps, like the dawn of the internet and the World Wide Web. As a retired archivist, I’ve spent decades immersed in the history of technology, meticulously cataloging documents … Read more
Hello fellow history enthusiasts! Rowan here. For years, my focus has been the grand narratives of 18th-century Europe – the courts, the wars, the revolutions. But my travels and research have often led me down less-trodden paths, revealing the lives of ordinary people, the whispers of social change, and the cultural currents that shaped this … Read more
It’s a funny thing, how a simple comment on a website can spark a deeper reflection. Recently, I stumbled upon a Reddit post where someone shared a profoundly moving experience in Slovenia. It wasn’t about a famous landmark or a grand historical event, but about a simple, genuine human connection they made. This resonated with … Read more
As someone who spends a good deal of time in archives and visiting historical sites, the idea of shared accommodation often brings to mind the crowded inns of centuries past. While the amenities have certainly improved, the social dynamics of a shared space, like a hostel, can feel surprisingly complex. Recently, I came across a … Read more
As someone who has spent decades sifting through the dusty archives of technological history, I’ve always been struck by how deeply intertwined innovation and governance have been. It’s a relationship that’s evolved dramatically, and examining the present through the lens of the past can be incredibly illuminating. Think about it: the very foundations of modern … Read more
As an archivist, I’ve spent decades sifting through the remnants of technological history. It’s fascinating how often the challenges and anxieties of today echo the past. The current conversation around Artificial Intelligence automating tasks within the consulting industry reminds me of a much older, yet remarkably similar, story: the rise of automation and its impact … Read more
The Grand Tour: More Than Just a Trip As a historian specializing in 18th-century Europe, I’ve always been drawn to the intricate tapestry of life during that era. Today, I want to pull back the curtain on a practice that profoundly shaped European culture and the individuals who participated: the Grand Tour. For young men … Read more
Well, I’ve done it! I’ve just finished hiking the Wonderland Trail, a journey that tested my limits and rewarded me with unparalleled views. For those of you who, like me, have a deep appreciation for both history and the call of adventure, this trek offered a unique blend of challenges and insights, much like navigating … Read more
My recent travels took me to Sri Lanka, an island nation rich in history and vibrant culture. As a historian, I always seek destinations that offer more than just picturesque landscapes; I look for places where the past breathes and whispers stories. Sri Lanka, with its ancient ruins, colonial architecture, and enduring traditions, proved to … Read more
As someone who spends a considerable amount of time navigating different routes for research, I’ve learned that how you book your flights can significantly impact your journey. Today, August 1st, 2025, let’s consider a common travel dilemma: flying from Chicago O’Hare (ORD) to Hong Kong (HKG) and whether it’s better to book directly with an … Read more