Teach Me Something

Last episode we discussed the history of calendars and this episode we approach the history of time keeping on a smaller scale. Has an hour always been the same length of time? When did keeping track of the time day become important? What are the six candles for? And what is a pennyweight anyways?

We have made several attempts to track time and record the cycles of the moon and sun. Some systems were more accurate than others and some calendars don't even relate to celestial bodies, but all of them provide an interesting glimpse into the culture that used them at that time in history.

You may know your ABO blood group, you may event know your RhD blood group, but do you know your Kell, Duffy, or Kidd group? Well, old timey doctors didn't know about any blood groups and they made some poor decisions during the course of medical advancement.

Retroviruses are interesting in so many ways, like breaking the central dogma of molecular biology. Did we mention that you wouldn't be a mammal, or even a vertebrate, without these handy little invaders?

The Roman amphitheatres are a marvel of ancient engineering and construction. Not to be confused with theatres, forums, and other purpose built Roman buildings, the amphitheatres were designed for one goal; violence for public spectacle. From gladiators to ship battles, amphitheatres saw it all.