Germanicus is not a name that many people are familiar with today, but the man and his family are central figures in the story of one of the most colourful imperial dynasties the world has ever known – the Julio-Claudians.
The Julio-Claudians get their name from two families of the old Roman republic. Both families were old. The Julians had an impeccable aristocratic pedigree, while the Claudians were one of the most politically powerful families in the state. The two were thrown together into an alliance during the troubles which gripped Rome during the fall of the Republic.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
The Family of Germanicus
Germanicus is not a name that many people are familiar with today, but the man and his family are central figures in the story of one of the most colourful imperial dynasties the world has ever known – the Julio-Claudians.
The Julio-Claudians get their name from two families of the old Roman republic. Both families were old. The Julians had an impeccable aristocratic pedigree, while the Claudians were one of the most politically powerful families in the state. The two were thrown together into an alliance during the troubles which gripped Rome during the fall of the Republic.
Julius Caesar, the most famous member of the Julian family, led his legions in the conquest of Rome. Though Caesar was a great general, he lacked the political skills to control the Roman senate and Caesar was killed by the senators during one of their meetings. Another round of civil wars followed, and Caesar's great-nephew, Augustus, became the ruler of Rome.
In contrast to Caesar, Augustus was a superb, uncompromising and ruthless politician. Early in his career he realized that his family could not rule alone, and he allied himself with the Claudians by marrying a woman called Livia Drusilla. Livia was not only a Claudian herself, but the former wife of another Claudian. She had two children by her first marriage, Tiberius and Drusus.
When he grew up, Drusus married Antonia, the daughter of Mark Antony. They had two children, one called Claudius and the other named Tiberius after his uncle and grandfather (Tiberius was a common Roman name, and often used for members of the Claudian family.)
Tiberius joined the army while he was still a young man, and turned out to be an excellent soldier. At the time, the Romans were busy with a major war in Germany. This war had not been going well, and the Romans lost a number of legions during a major battle in the Teutonwald forest. Tiberius was one of the commanders who helped to restore the power of Rome, and to celebrate his victories, and to distinguish him from his uncle, the soldiers started calling him Germanicus.
Germanicus, or Nero Claudius Drusus Germanicus to give him his proper name, was not only an excellent commander, but one who took great care that his soldiers were well supplied and looked after. He was loved by the troops he commanded and this love helped him to bring the legions back under control when they mutinied on hearing of the death of Augustus.
Since Augustus had no sons he had adopted Tiberius, the uncle of Germanicus. As the son of Augustus, Tiberius became emperor after him. Augustus had known how popular Germanicus was, and considered adopting him instead of Tiberius, but instead adopted Tiberius and made Tiberius adopt Germanicus. His plan was that power should go from himself, to Tiberius and then to Germanicus and his sons. Germanicus had already become closer to the Julian family by his marriage to Agrippina, the grand-daughter of Augustus.
Sadly, the glittering career of Germanicus did not happen. From Germany he want to Asia Minor where he again won victories for Rome, but on his return from a trip to Egypt he became ill and died. Some modern historians believe that Germanicus died of malaria, but Germanicus and his wife were both convinced that he had been poisoned by his enemies. Among those they suspected was Tiberius, the emperor, since it was felt he wanted power to pass to his own son rather than to Germanicus.
With the clear line of succession destroyed, members of the imperial court started to plot and scheme to see who would be emperor after Tiberius, who was already an old man. The conspiracies drew in the surviving members of the family of Germanicus, and the two eldest boys were accused of treason and killed. One daughter, Julia Livilla, was married to the son of Tiberius and is believed to have poisoned him – partly to help the plots of her lover and partly to avenge the 'poisoning' of her father. Agrippina, the wife of Germanicus was exiled and starved herself to death.
One boy survived, a young man called Gaius. Tiberius made him live in his house where he could watch him carefully, but also because Tiberius was true to his promise that when he died the children of Germanicus would come to power. Gaius did indeed become emperor, but the mental stress of the earlier years could not be undone, and he is known today as the mad emperor Caligula.
Gaius Caligula was assassinated, but history had not done with the children of Germanicus. The next emperor was Claudius, the brother of Germanicus. He married, another daughter of Germanicus called Agrippina after her mother. Agrippina, a direct descendant of Augustus, was thus the wife and niece of Claudius, the sister of Caligula, and eventually, the mother of another emperor. This was Nero, the tyrant emperor whose death marked the end of the descendants of Germanicus and the Julio-Claudian dynasty of emperors.
The Julio-Claudians get their name from two families of the old Roman republic. Both families were old. The Julians had an impeccable aristocratic pedigree, while the Claudians were one of the most politically powerful families in the state. The two were thrown together into an alliance during the troubles which gripped Rome during the fall of the Republic.
Julius Caesar, the most famous member of the Julian family, led his legions in the conquest of Rome. Though Caesar was a great general, he lacked the political skills to control the Roman senate and Caesar was killed by the senators during one of their meetings. Another round of civil wars followed, and Caesar's great-nephew, Augustus, became the ruler of Rome.
In contrast to Caesar, Augustus was a superb, uncompromising and ruthless politician. Early in his career he realized that his family could not rule alone, and he allied himself with the Claudians by marrying a woman called Livia Drusilla. Livia was not only a Claudian herself, but the former wife of another Claudian. She had two children by her first marriage, Tiberius and Drusus.
When he grew up, Drusus married Antonia, the daughter of Mark Antony. They had two children, one called Claudius and the other named Tiberius after his uncle and grandfather (Tiberius was a common Roman name, and often used for members of the Claudian family.)
Tiberius joined the army while he was still a young man, and turned out to be an excellent soldier. At the time, the Romans were busy with a major war in Germany. This war had not been going well, and the Romans lost a number of legions during a major battle in the Teutonwald forest. Tiberius was one of the commanders who helped to restore the power of Rome, and to celebrate his victories, and to distinguish him from his uncle, the soldiers started calling him Germanicus.
Germanicus, or Nero Claudius Drusus Germanicus to give him his proper name, was not only an excellent commander, but one who took great care that his soldiers were well supplied and looked after. He was loved by the troops he commanded and this love helped him to bring the legions back under control when they mutinied on hearing of the death of Augustus.
Since Augustus had no sons he had adopted Tiberius, the uncle of Germanicus. As the son of Augustus, Tiberius became emperor after him. Augustus had known how popular Germanicus was, and considered adopting him instead of Tiberius, but instead adopted Tiberius and made Tiberius adopt Germanicus. His plan was that power should go from himself, to Tiberius and then to Germanicus and his sons. Germanicus had already become closer to the Julian family by his marriage to Agrippina, the grand-daughter of Augustus.
Sadly, the glittering career of Germanicus did not happen. From Germany he want to Asia Minor where he again won victories for Rome, but on his return from a trip to Egypt he became ill and died. Some modern historians believe that Germanicus died of malaria, but Germanicus and his wife were both convinced that he had been poisoned by his enemies. Among those they suspected was Tiberius, the emperor, since it was felt he wanted power to pass to his own son rather than to Germanicus.
With the clear line of succession destroyed, members of the imperial court started to plot and scheme to see who would be emperor after Tiberius, who was already an old man. The conspiracies drew in the surviving members of the family of Germanicus, and the two eldest boys were accused of treason and killed. One daughter, Julia Livilla, was married to the son of Tiberius and is believed to have poisoned him – partly to help the plots of her lover and partly to avenge the 'poisoning' of her father. Agrippina, the wife of Germanicus was exiled and starved herself to death.
One boy survived, a young man called Gaius. Tiberius made him live in his house where he could watch him carefully, but also because Tiberius was true to his promise that when he died the children of Germanicus would come to power. Gaius did indeed become emperor, but the mental stress of the earlier years could not be undone, and he is known today as the mad emperor Caligula.
Gaius Caligula was assassinated, but history had not done with the children of Germanicus. The next emperor was Claudius, the brother of Germanicus. He married, another daughter of Germanicus called Agrippina after her mother. Agrippina, a direct descendant of Augustus, was thus the wife and niece of Claudius, the sister of Caligula, and eventually, the mother of another emperor. This was Nero, the tyrant emperor whose death marked the end of the descendants of Germanicus and the Julio-Claudian dynasty of emperors.
Gondwanaland
Meet Mesosaurus, a small reptile which lived in fresh-water lakes and streams millions of years ago during the lower Permain age. Mesosaurus has had a big impact on how we view our planet, because he helped to prove the existence of the super-continent called Gondwanaland.
Every schoolchild has probably looked at a map of the earth and noticed how Africa and South America fit together like pieces of a giant jigsaw, yet until just over a hundred and fifty years ago, no-one believed that this was more than an odd coincidence. It seemed impossible that the massive continents of the earth could ever be moved, let alone so far apart that they ended up half a planet from each other.
Nevertheless, in 1912 Alfred Wegener, a German meteorologist came up with the theory that the continents of the earth had all existed in a single mass, which he called Pangaea (which is Greek for 'all the world'') Later researchers decided that Pangaea had been two continents, one to the north of the other, which had existed about 250 million years ago. From the geological evidence found in the Gondwana area of India, an Austrian geologist, Eduard Suess coined the name 'Gondwanaland' for the southern supercontinent, of which India was once a part. (The northern continent was called Lurasia.)
For many years super-continents were regarded as an interesting theory, but no-one knew how it might work in reality. Then the discovery of the mechanisms of plate tectonics showed how continents might drift across the face of the globe. Once it was accepted that the continents were floating on currents of lava, more evidence became apparent. A particular type of an early plant, the seed fern, was found on continents now scattered about the southern hemisphere of the world, as were tillates, a deposit left by glaciers in the Permo-Carboniferous era of 520 million years ago. And Mesosaurus, the little fresh-water reptile, left his remains in West Africa and Brazil. Since Mesosaurus had no way of crossing the Atlantic, researchers realized that it could not be coincidence that this reptile had left remains in exactly the place where Africa and South America fit together so neatly.
By investigating similarities in animal fossils, different types of plants found in the southern hemisphere but not in the northern hemisphere, and patterns of rock formations, researchers have managed to put the continents of modern-day earth together like a huge jigsaw to make up the vanished super-continent. Sometimes rock formations can be seen to break off at the ocean's edge, to carry on once more thousands of miles away on another continent. The evidence shows that not only were Africa and South America once joined to Antartica, but so were India and Australia, parts of south Western Europe, and Florida.
Although Gondwanaland was located in the far southern hemisphere of the planet, where Antarctica remains today, the climate was much warmer, and we know that huge forests grew there. These forests, fossilized into coal, supply many Indians with energy today. The land animals were adapted to life on their cool continent, with its long dark winter days. Some of the best known dinosaurs, such as Stegosaurus, Triceratops, and Tyrannosaurus lived on the northern continents, but Gondwanaland also had some fearsome predators such as Abelisaurus, a large meat-eater that lived during the cretaceous period. The seas were populated with fish called placoderms, a name which they get from their skin, which was so thick that they were practically armoured.
The break-up of Gondwanaland had huge consequences for planet earth as we know it now. In geological terms, India has been a sprinter. Breaking from Gondwanaland the sub-continent drifted rapidly northward from the south pole, finally smashing into Asia about 45 million years ago in a collision that raised the Himalayas.
When South America split off about 30 million years ago the effect was even more dramatic. Cold Antarctic water no longer mixed with warmer seas when pushed northward by the south American landmass. Instead it circled the pole getting colder and colder, until Antartica lost its vegetation and animal life, and became the barren icy wilderness it is today.
Every schoolchild has probably looked at a map of the earth and noticed how Africa and South America fit together like pieces of a giant jigsaw, yet until just over a hundred and fifty years ago, no-one believed that this was more than an odd coincidence. It seemed impossible that the massive continents of the earth could ever be moved, let alone so far apart that they ended up half a planet from each other.
Nevertheless, in 1912 Alfred Wegener, a German meteorologist came up with the theory that the continents of the earth had all existed in a single mass, which he called Pangaea (which is Greek for 'all the world'') Later researchers decided that Pangaea had been two continents, one to the north of the other, which had existed about 250 million years ago. From the geological evidence found in the Gondwana area of India, an Austrian geologist, Eduard Suess coined the name 'Gondwanaland' for the southern supercontinent, of which India was once a part. (The northern continent was called Lurasia.)
For many years super-continents were regarded as an interesting theory, but no-one knew how it might work in reality. Then the discovery of the mechanisms of plate tectonics showed how continents might drift across the face of the globe. Once it was accepted that the continents were floating on currents of lava, more evidence became apparent. A particular type of an early plant, the seed fern, was found on continents now scattered about the southern hemisphere of the world, as were tillates, a deposit left by glaciers in the Permo-Carboniferous era of 520 million years ago. And Mesosaurus, the little fresh-water reptile, left his remains in West Africa and Brazil. Since Mesosaurus had no way of crossing the Atlantic, researchers realized that it could not be coincidence that this reptile had left remains in exactly the place where Africa and South America fit together so neatly.
By investigating similarities in animal fossils, different types of plants found in the southern hemisphere but not in the northern hemisphere, and patterns of rock formations, researchers have managed to put the continents of modern-day earth together like a huge jigsaw to make up the vanished super-continent. Sometimes rock formations can be seen to break off at the ocean's edge, to carry on once more thousands of miles away on another continent. The evidence shows that not only were Africa and South America once joined to Antartica, but so were India and Australia, parts of south Western Europe, and Florida.
Although Gondwanaland was located in the far southern hemisphere of the planet, where Antarctica remains today, the climate was much warmer, and we know that huge forests grew there. These forests, fossilized into coal, supply many Indians with energy today. The land animals were adapted to life on their cool continent, with its long dark winter days. Some of the best known dinosaurs, such as Stegosaurus, Triceratops, and Tyrannosaurus lived on the northern continents, but Gondwanaland also had some fearsome predators such as Abelisaurus, a large meat-eater that lived during the cretaceous period. The seas were populated with fish called placoderms, a name which they get from their skin, which was so thick that they were practically armoured.
The break-up of Gondwanaland had huge consequences for planet earth as we know it now. In geological terms, India has been a sprinter. Breaking from Gondwanaland the sub-continent drifted rapidly northward from the south pole, finally smashing into Asia about 45 million years ago in a collision that raised the Himalayas.
When South America split off about 30 million years ago the effect was even more dramatic. Cold Antarctic water no longer mixed with warmer seas when pushed northward by the south American landmass. Instead it circled the pole getting colder and colder, until Antartica lost its vegetation and animal life, and became the barren icy wilderness it is today.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Earth Hour: Turn lights off, brighten our lives
Due to the bad consequences of climate change, our beautiful planet is constantly coping with more and more severe natural disasters, such as: tsunami, earthquake, flood, ice melting, and drought. They are, in fact, the deadly dangers threatening our future, even our existence. Undoubtedly none of us wants to witness such a tragic ending, so we all have to do something to speak one voice for one united action. “Earth Hour”, promoted annually by World Wide Fund, is really now what we need not just to save energy, raise our awareness of climate change, but most importantly show our solidarity.
The first positive effect that “Earth hour” brings us is saving energy. Simply switching lights off for one hour, we can reduce electricity consumption tremendously. For instance, in Vietnam, electricity use fell 500.000 kilowatts during Earth Hour 2010, three times higher than the first time the country joined the event in 2009. In fact, the more countries participate in this campaign, the more energy we can economize, the more money we have to invest in and develop environmental projects like planting trees, building up sewage systems, cleaning the water, and protecting wild animals. Moreover, saving energy also means decreasing the risk of global warming because we will cut down an enormous amount of carbon dioxide into the air from the burning of fossil fuels which are considered as the main cause of greenhouse effects as well as ozone hole. “Earth Hour” not only helps us save energy but also contribute to environment protection.
In addition, thanks to “Earth Hour”, we can raise awareness of global warming.
In only 60 minutes, everyone seems to understand more clearly about the reasons that lead to climate change and try to find out best methods to minimize them. With the development of the society, the demand for energy is higher than ever. In order to supply people with energy, we burn coal, oil, and natural gases. We realease greenhouse gas, especially carbon dioxide into atmosphere and make our planet warmer. The fact that people suffer from montrous disasters and unkillable diseases is unavoidable. And ice melting, the most dangerous one which turns our earth into an ocean by raising sea level, can occur if we do not control damage on the environment. The responsibility for global warming belongs to human beings. Realizing this deeply is the motivation for us to have right thoughts and right actions with a better view to make our stand against climate change. Obviously, “Earth Hour” gives us more specific misson against climate change, and it is the reminder of the need for actions to protect our world for younger generation.
Essentially, “Earth Hour” demonstrates the unique of people all over the world. The campaign started in 2007 in Sydney, Australia, when 2, 2 million homes and businesses participated. One year later, Earth Hour became a global movement with more than 50 million people across 35 countries. In 2009, hundred of thousands of people took part in the Earth Hour. Over 4000 cities in 87 countries switched the light off. Earth Hour 2010 took place with the participation of about 1 billion people in 125 countries. These are the impressing figures for the development of “Earth Hour”. This also proves that people all over the world tend to be closer and closer to create the power to overcome all obstacles. All have the same goal: making our “Mother Nature” a better place to live. Taking part in “Earth Hour” also means we are building up international solidarity spirit which is very important for the existence of one world. During “Earth Hour”, people everywhere around the world stand in the darkness. It is the symbol for our determination and hope in stopping the degradation of the Earth’s mutual understanding.
Indeed, “Earth Hour” does not only give us the chance to save energy, but raise awareness of global warming, and develop the international cooperation as well. The bright future depends on us, so every individual needs to stand up, take responsibility, and act to turn one small action into big changes simply by joining “Earth Hour”.
“Turn lights off, brighten our lives”.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Women's Liberation Movement, Causes and Effects
Sine the middle of the century, women around the world have been seeking greater independence and recognition. No longer content with their traditional roles as housewives and mothers, women have joined together to create the so-called “women’s liberation movement”. While the forces behind this international movement vary from culture to culture and from individual to individual, the basic causes in the United States can be traced to three events: the development of effective birth-control methods, the invention of labor-saving devices for the home, and the advent of World War II.
The first cause of the liberation of women was the development of effective birth-control methods, freeing women from the endless cycle of childbearing and rearing. As a result of having a choice as to if and when to bear children, women acquired the freedom and the time to pursue interests outside the home. Because of the development of birth control, women could delay having children or avoid having them altogether; consequently, women had the opportunity to acquire an education and/ or pursue a career.
The second event was the development mechanized labor-saving devices for the home, resulting in more leisure time and freedom for women. For example, fifty years ago, a housewife spent an average of twelve to fifteen hours per day doing housework. Due to the invention of machines such as vacuum cleaners and dishwashers, a housewife can now take care of her daily housework in about five hours.
The third event that, at least in the United States, gave impetus to the liberation of women was World War II. During the war, most men were serving in the military. Consequently, women had to fill the vacancies in the labor force. Women by the thousands went to work in factories and even took over businesses for their absent husbands. This was a great change for the majority of American women, for they discovered that they could weld airplanes and manage a business as well as change diapers and bake cookies.
These three events planted the seeds of a great change in society, and the effects of this change are being felt at all levels: in the family, in business, and in government.
One of the biggest effects of the greater independence of women is being felt in the home. Because so many women are working, men are learning to share the household tasks of cooking, cleaning and even caring for children. In some families, husbands now stay at home while the wife earns the family in-come. It should be pointed out; however, that this is the exception, not the rule. In most families in the U. S., the husband still earns most of the money, and the wife still does most of the housework.
The effects of women’s liberation are also being felt on the job. More and more women are working, and they are demanding equal salaries and equally responsible positions. Many businesses encourage women to advance to management level, and every year, the nation’s schools produce more women doctors, lawyers and accountants.
Politics and government are still other areas that are feeling the effects of the women’s movement. Although the U. S. does not appear ready to accept a woman president as some countries of the world have, women are being elected to public office in increasing numbers. The U. S. currently has three women governors, which is the highest office in the state. In 1984, a woman was a vice-presidential candidate. A few years earlier, this would have been unthinkable.
In conclusion, women in the United States and Europe have been acquiring greater independence due to the development of effective birth-control methods, the invention of labour-saving devices for the home, and World War II. These liberties are causing sweeping changes in society: at home, at work, and in politics. While men may not be happy with these changes, they should always remember that it was they, the men, who created the conditions leading to the liberation of women. Men made war. Male scientists developed birth control, and businessmen earned a lot of money selling vacuum cleaners and dishwashers. Yet, women are thankful to these men as it was because of these men that women finally realized that their rights may not be ignored or suppressed by law, local custom, and behavior in a particular society.
University Life “You” “Revolutionize” Me!
“Who will wake me up?”, “Who will cook for me?”, “How can I go to school?, and “How can I live in harmony with unfamiliar people?” are ridiculous questions I wondered two years ago when I prepared for entering the university. Time goes by; I have gradually found out the answers to these questions and at the same time overcome a lot of obstacles to improve myself. I realize that university life has not simply helped me enrich knowledge but changed me a lot in both personality and life style.
The first change the university life has brought to me is an independent life. In fact, when I stayed at home, my parents took care of me, so I seemed to totally depend on them. Every morning, my mother woke me up, cooked the breakfast for me. Then my father rode me to school on his bike. But everything has changed now. I get a habit of getting up early to take the bus because my house is far away from my university. I also go to the market, cook the meals for myself, wash my clothes or even fix my bicycle sometimes. At first, I could not eat the food I cooked and I even broke a number of dishes. But later, all things were better, and now I am very confident to cook delicious meals for my family as well as friends. Besides, when I was in high school, whatever I did, I always asked for and followed my parents’ advice. Now I can decide what I would like to do as well as how to do it effectively. University life, indeed, helps me become more and more independent.
The second effect the university life has had on me is a well-organized life style. When I lived with my family, I could be untidy because my mother often helped me arrange my room. Now, living with my roommates forces me to keep everything tidy because that is not my own room. Moreover, there is a lot of pressure on my studying, so it is very important for me to manage time well. I have learned the way to spend time reasonably as well as to balance between studying and relaxation. I now do not waste time chatting or sleeping. Instead, I spend more time reading books and practicing other important skills. I am really happy and proud, too because I can give up the untidiness that seemed to be impossible.
The most dramatic change I have got thanks to the university life is sociability. Living with many friends who have different personalities, I have learnt how to live with their bad habits and learn from their strong points to perfect myself. Significantly, now I have known to think about other people and share with them the difficulties. Before, I did not know how to take care of the sick. Worse, many times I did not pay attention to the feelings of others. However, now I realize that I can do meaningful things and my positive attitudes as well as good behaviors have influences on the surrounding people. This is the motivation for me to live more responsibly. Essentially, the university life has created a favorable environment for me to work in group and take part in many social activities. I have chances to make friends with interesting people from these activities. They also help me improve communicative skills and feel more confident in communication. All in all, how wonderful it is that I am now less selfless and more willing to help others when they are in need.
Two years has passed since I started learning here at University of Technical Education. Two years is not a long time, but enough for me to change a lot for the better. From a dependent, untidy, and timid girl, I have become more independent, well-organized and sociable student. “University Life, I Love You! You Have Revolutionized Me!”
Earth Hour
Due to the bad consequences of climate change, our beautiful planet is constantly coping with more and more severe natural disasters, such as: tsunami, earthquake, flood, ice melting, and drought. They are, indeed, the deadly dangers threatening the future, even the existence of human beings day by day. Undoubtedly none of us wants to witness such a tragic ending, so we all have to do something to speak one voice for one united action. “Earth Hour”, promoted annually by World Wide Fund, is really now what we need not just to save energy, raise awareness of climate change, but most importantly show our solidarity.
The first positive effect that “Earth hour” brings us is saving energy. Simply switching lights off for one hour, we can reduce electricity consumption tremendously. For instance, in Vietnam, electricity use fell 500.000 kilowatts during Earth Hour 2010, three times higher than the first time the country joined the event in 2009. In fact, the more countries participate in this campaign, the more energy we can economize, the more money we have to invest in and develop environmental projects like planting trees, building up sewage systems, cleaning the water, and protecting animals. Besides, saving energy also means decreasing the risk of global warming because we can cut down an enormous amount of carbon dioxide into the air from the burning of fossil fuels which are considered as the main cause of greenhouse effects as well as ozone hole. “Earth Hour” not only helps us save energy but also contribute to environment protection.
In addition, thanks to “Earth Hour”, we can raise awareness of global warming. In only 60 minutes, everyone seems to understand more clearly about the reasons that lead to climate change and try to find out best methods to minimize them. With the development of the society, the demand for energy is higher than ever. In order to supply people with energy, we burn coal, oil, and natural gases. We realease greenhouse gas, especially carbon dioxide into atmosphere and make our planet warmer and warmer. The fact that people suffer from montrous disasters and unkillable diseases is unavoidable. And ice melting, the most dangerous one which turns our earth into an ocean by raising sea level, can occur if we do not control damage on the environment. The responsibility for global warming belongs to human beings. Realizing this thing deeply is the motivation for us to have right thoughts and right actions with a better view to make our stand against climate change. Obviously, “Earth Hour” gives us more specific misson against climate change, and it is the reminder of the need for actions to protect our world for younger generation.
Essentially, “Earth Hour” demonstrates the unique of people all over the world. The campaign started in 2007 in Sydney, Australia, when 2, 2 million homes and businesses participated. One year later, Earth Hour became a global movement with more than 50 million people across 35 countries. In 2009, hundred of thousands of people took part in the Earth Hour. Over 4000 cities in 87 countries switched the light off. Earth Hour 2010 took place with the participation of about 1 billion people in 125 countries. These are the impressing figures for the development of “Earth Hour”. This also proves that people all over the world tend to be closer and closer to create the power to overcome all obstacles. All have the same purpose: making our world a better place to live. Taking part in “Earth Hour” also means we are building up international solidarity spirit which is very essential for the existence of one world. During “Earth Hour”, people everywhere around the world stand in the darkness. It is the symbol for our determination and hope in stopping the degradation of the Earth’s mutual understanding.
In general, “Earth Hour” gives us the chance to save energy, raise awareness of global warming and develop the international cooperation. The bright future depends on us, so every individual needs to stand up, take responsibility, and act to turn small actions into big changes simply by joining “Earth Hour”. The more we support for “Earth Hour”, the brighter our world’s prospect is.
The first positive effect that “Earth hour” brings us is saving energy. Simply switching lights off for one hour, we can reduce electricity consumption tremendously. For instance, in Vietnam, electricity use fell 500.000 kilowatts during Earth Hour 2010, three times higher than the first time the country joined the event in 2009. In fact, the more countries participate in this campaign, the more energy we can economize, the more money we have to invest in and develop environmental projects like planting trees, building up sewage systems, cleaning the water, and protecting animals. Besides, saving energy also means decreasing the risk of global warming because we can cut down an enormous amount of carbon dioxide into the air from the burning of fossil fuels which are considered as the main cause of greenhouse effects as well as ozone hole. “Earth Hour” not only helps us save energy but also contribute to environment protection.
In addition, thanks to “Earth Hour”, we can raise awareness of global warming. In only 60 minutes, everyone seems to understand more clearly about the reasons that lead to climate change and try to find out best methods to minimize them. With the development of the society, the demand for energy is higher than ever. In order to supply people with energy, we burn coal, oil, and natural gases. We realease greenhouse gas, especially carbon dioxide into atmosphere and make our planet warmer and warmer. The fact that people suffer from montrous disasters and unkillable diseases is unavoidable. And ice melting, the most dangerous one which turns our earth into an ocean by raising sea level, can occur if we do not control damage on the environment. The responsibility for global warming belongs to human beings. Realizing this thing deeply is the motivation for us to have right thoughts and right actions with a better view to make our stand against climate change. Obviously, “Earth Hour” gives us more specific misson against climate change, and it is the reminder of the need for actions to protect our world for younger generation.
Essentially, “Earth Hour” demonstrates the unique of people all over the world. The campaign started in 2007 in Sydney, Australia, when 2, 2 million homes and businesses participated. One year later, Earth Hour became a global movement with more than 50 million people across 35 countries. In 2009, hundred of thousands of people took part in the Earth Hour. Over 4000 cities in 87 countries switched the light off. Earth Hour 2010 took place with the participation of about 1 billion people in 125 countries. These are the impressing figures for the development of “Earth Hour”. This also proves that people all over the world tend to be closer and closer to create the power to overcome all obstacles. All have the same purpose: making our world a better place to live. Taking part in “Earth Hour” also means we are building up international solidarity spirit which is very essential for the existence of one world. During “Earth Hour”, people everywhere around the world stand in the darkness. It is the symbol for our determination and hope in stopping the degradation of the Earth’s mutual understanding.
In general, “Earth Hour” gives us the chance to save energy, raise awareness of global warming and develop the international cooperation. The bright future depends on us, so every individual needs to stand up, take responsibility, and act to turn small actions into big changes simply by joining “Earth Hour”. The more we support for “Earth Hour”, the brighter our world’s prospect is.
Monday, March 7, 2011
halloween
Halloween, which takes place every year on 31st October, is an important event, particularly in America. It originated hundreds of years ago when it was believed that on this night the souls of the dead came back and walked among the living. Today, it is treated light-heartedly and celebrated mainly by children.
A certain amount of preparation is required of those who take part. Costumes and masks, typically of ghosts or witches, have to be made. Sweets are bought and parties are organised. Most importantly, a lantern is made. This is done by taking a large pumpkin and cutting out the inside, which is then used to make a pie. Next, holes are cut out of one side in the shape of an evil face, and a candle is placed inside the lantern so that the light glows through the eyes and mouth.
On the day itself, or rather in the evening, children wander around the streets dressed in their costumes. The custom is for children to knock on doors in their neighbourhood and say "Trick or treat". This means that their neighbours have to treat them to sweets or candies, otherwise the "ghosts and witches" will play a trick on them. Usually the adults offer them something, but if they fail to, then a practical joke might be played. This is usually something harmless such as putting shaving foam on the uncooperative neighbour's windows.
If a party has been arranged, then the lights are turned out and the children take part in a variety of activities. This might include anything from telling ghost stories to dancing. Although the parties are based on a rather frightening theme, the emphasis is, of course, on having fun. A typical party game for Halloween is played by putting apples into a barrel of water and inviting the children to pick them up with their teeth. Special drinks are made, which are served with the traditional pumpkin pie.
Many people enjoy Halloween as an excuse to dress up and have fun. It is unique in that its theme is essentially not a pleasant one. However, I it remains popular and is eagerly anticipated every 4 year by people of all ages.
Halloween
About four years ago I was invited to a Halloween party at the home of a friend. I was reluctant at first but I decided to go to help out with the arrangements.
On the afternoon of the party, I drove to my friend's house with a huge box of materials which I thought might be useful for the preparations. The children were full of enthusiasm as they worked on their masks and costumes. But the best part of all was making the lanterns. I was amazed at the imagination that the children showed when cutting grotesque faces out of the hollowed-out pumpkins. The mood of anticipation was so intense that, by the time the last costume had been made, I was as excited as the children.
By six o'clock, the party was well under way and the house was full of screaming children, with me running around in a mask trying to scare them. At one point during the evening, prizes were awarded to the children who had made the best costumes. Games were organised, including one where the children had their hands tied behind their backs while they tried to pick apples out of a barrel of water using only their teeth. When the party finally ended, the children left in a noisy group, running ahead of their parents and doing their best to scare any unfortunate passers-by.
Rediscovering what it is like to have fun without feeling embarrassed was a fantastic experience. My initial hesitation disappeared once I had decided to get involved. Helping with the children's games enabled me to enter into the party spirit. I saw it as an opportunity to experience the sheer joy that comes so naturally to children.
Another thing that made it a particularly enjoyable occasion was that it brought back memories of my own childhood experiences. I remembered my own excitement when we were dressing up in scary costumes, and the thrill of going from house to house, bags held open for whatever goodies would be put in when we shouted, "Trick or treat!" I also remembered the time we had been chased by a stingy neighbour after spraying his windows with shaving foam.
Since those days I had nearly forgotten about Halloween, but this party gave me so much pleasure that now it is a regular fixture in my diary. I think everyone should have the chance to feel like a child at least once a year.
Diwali, the Festival of Light
Last autumn I was in India during Diwali, the "Festival of Lights" which takes place every year to celebrate the victory of good over evil. This festival lasts for five days and is held at the end of October or in the first week of November.
Preparations began weeks before the event. People cleaned their homes and painted wonderful designs called rangolis on the walls and floors. They bought beautiful new clothes and jewellery to wear during the festival, and women made delicious sweets which were better than any others I have ever tasted.
During the five days of Diwali, every home and temple was decorated, inside and outside, with lovely clay lamps and colourful candles. After dark, the whole neighbourhood glittered with thousands of tiny lights, as though in a fairy tale. Excited children set off firecrackers, and at first I was frightened by the loud bangs, but the spectacular display was so fascinating that I soon joined in the spirit of the celebration.
Diwali is a deeply moving festival. I am very grateful I had the chance to share in this celebration of peace and harmony. I have fond memories of the experience, and in particular I will never forget how friendly and generous the people were.
Friday, February 25, 2011
London
London is the capital of England and the United Kingdom, the largest metropolitan area in the United Kingdom and the largest urban zone in the European Union by most measures. London has been a major settlement for two millennia, its history going back to its founding by the Romans, who called it Londinium. London's ancient core, the City of London, largely retains its square-mile mediaeval boundaries. Since at least the 19th century, the name London has also referred to the metropolis developed around this core. The bulk of this conurbationregion and the Greater London administrative area, governed by the elected Mayor of LondonLondon Assembly. forms the London and the
Thursday, February 24, 2011
To Whom It May Concern
I want to thank you for broadcasting that review of Erin Henderson's new album, Family of Man. I bought her album after I had heard your review (it was hard to find the album), and I love it! I remember that my roommate used to listen to her, and I enjoyed the music, but I never knew who was singing. Also, I'm writing because I have been listening closely to your station every day at work, but I haven’t heard you play any of the songs from her new album yet. I was going to tell all my friends to listen to your station so that they could hear her. I wonder why you aren’t playing her music. What's going on?
Debby
The Man Has Been Nearly Everywhere
John Clouse has the thickest, most dog-eared passport in the world. Turn to page 16 of the 1996 Guiness Book of World Records and you will find the reason. He holds the record for traveling to all 192 of the globe's inde-pendent countries, and to all but a few of the other territories that existed in early 1996.
Clouse, who has spent about $1.25 million roaming from A to Z in the past 40 years, says he travels for the love of it, not to outrun anybody else who may be keeping a list. He is now down to just three remote islands to visit.
Clouse has continued his journeys since making the record book, and not only has he visited every country in the world, but some two or three times. Now he is focusing on the remaining three islands.
"Yeah, I 've been trying to get to three places: one is the Paracel Islands, owned by China in the South China Sea," he says. "And on two occasions the weather has kept me from reaching Bouvet, an island in Norwegian Antarctica. No. 3 is Clipperton, a French island about 700 miles west of Acapulco."
After all his traveling, he says, "I don't believe there are evil empires and evil people. Yes, there are some bad leaders in the world, but seeing people as individuals has taught me that they are all basically alike. You can be in some terrible place and someone will extend hospitality to you."
Clouse travels light, with a small suitcase, and seldom goes first class. His collection of National Geographic magazines is his source for research. Years ago he stopped taking photos and now keeps a journal of his travels. He has crossed the Atlantic Ocean at least 100 times, and the Pacific Ocean 40 or 50 times.
Clouse concludes that the right attitude is synonymous with the lightness of his suitcase. 'Travel without a lot of mental baggage," he says. "Try not to go with preconceived notions that the place will be dirty or hostile, and if it is, go with the flow and make the best of it."
"Learn a few words like please and thank you" he suggests. "That really pleases people."
Clouse, who has spent about $1.25 million roaming from A to Z in the past 40 years, says he travels for the love of it, not to outrun anybody else who may be keeping a list. He is now down to just three remote islands to visit.
Clouse has continued his journeys since making the record book, and not only has he visited every country in the world, but some two or three times. Now he is focusing on the remaining three islands.
"Yeah, I 've been trying to get to three places: one is the Paracel Islands, owned by China in the South China Sea," he says. "And on two occasions the weather has kept me from reaching Bouvet, an island in Norwegian Antarctica. No. 3 is Clipperton, a French island about 700 miles west of Acapulco."
After all his traveling, he says, "I don't believe there are evil empires and evil people. Yes, there are some bad leaders in the world, but seeing people as individuals has taught me that they are all basically alike. You can be in some terrible place and someone will extend hospitality to you."
Clouse travels light, with a small suitcase, and seldom goes first class. His collection of National Geographic magazines is his source for research. Years ago he stopped taking photos and now keeps a journal of his travels. He has crossed the Atlantic Ocean at least 100 times, and the Pacific Ocean 40 or 50 times.
Clouse concludes that the right attitude is synonymous with the lightness of his suitcase. 'Travel without a lot of mental baggage," he says. "Try not to go with preconceived notions that the place will be dirty or hostile, and if it is, go with the flow and make the best of it."
"Learn a few words like please and thank you" he suggests. "That really pleases people."
Exercise 2
Good morning, Mr Davies. What can I do for you?
Well, doctor, I've been getting some really bad headaches.
Okay. Can you tell me exactly when these headaches started?
Oh, yes, I remember it vividly - it was on a Friday three weeks ago. I had been working in front of my computer all week because I was doing a job for an important client - I've been working as a website designer for the last few years, you see. I had just finished when the pain started, and by the end of that day I was feeling/ felt really bad.
Okay. And how have you been sleeping?
Not very well, actually. Usually I'm asleep as soon as my head hits the pillow, but recently I've been having difficulty getting to sleep.
I see. Now, I notice that you wear glasses. Have you had your eyes tested recently?
No, I haven't had them tested for a couple of years, I suppose.
Okay, what I suggest is that first you get your eyes tested. Then when you are working/ work at your computer, take frequent breaks to rest your eyes. If that doesn't solve the problem, come back and see me again.
Well, doctor, I've been getting some really bad headaches.
Okay. Can you tell me exactly when these headaches started?
Oh, yes, I remember it vividly - it was on a Friday three weeks ago. I had been working in front of my computer all week because I was doing a job for an important client - I've been working as a website designer for the last few years, you see. I had just finished when the pain started, and by the end of that day I was feeling/ felt really bad.
Okay. And how have you been sleeping?
Not very well, actually. Usually I'm asleep as soon as my head hits the pillow, but recently I've been having difficulty getting to sleep.
I see. Now, I notice that you wear glasses. Have you had your eyes tested recently?
No, I haven't had them tested for a couple of years, I suppose.
Okay, what I suggest is that first you get your eyes tested. Then when you are working/ work at your computer, take frequent breaks to rest your eyes. If that doesn't solve the problem, come back and see me again.
Exercise 1
Emergency services were bombarded with phone calls from all over the north of England last night by people who reported seeing blue objects shoot across the sky. Mrs Linda Hayward was driving along the B456 road at the time.
'I usually come/ am usually coming along that bit of road at about ten. As I
went/ am going past the old barn, I saw a single bright blue light going across the road in front of my car. I stopped the car and watched/ was watching it for about fifteen minutes. It travelled/ was travelling quite slowly from east to west and then it suddenly disappeared. Until now I never believed/ have never believed in UFOs, although my son is forever trying to persuade me that they exist. But now I think that maybe he is/ was right.'
At the height of the panic, police stations got/ were getting around a thousand calls an hour from members of the public. Sergeant Ron Drake of the Ambledale police was particularly busy. 'Between 10 and 11 o'clock we received around thirty calls. The callers said they saw/ were seeing a single blue light about as big as a car over the village. We are now considering searching the fields around Ambledale for any evidence left behind.'
Dr Bart Mastow, a lecturer in astronomy at Trumpton University offers/ offered a simple explanation. 'The reports that came/ were coming in last night suggest/ suggested that it was a meteor shower. This is not unusual on a small scale, but last night's shower seems to have been very large. In fact, we are getting an increasing number of meteor showers, and my department is currently researching possible reasons for this.'
But many witnesses to the events believe that they observed/ were observing more than a meteor shower, and the Ministry of Defence says that they take/ are taking the reports of UFO sightings very seriously
'I usually come/ am usually coming along that bit of road at about ten. As I
went/ am going past the old barn, I saw a single bright blue light going across the road in front of my car. I stopped the car and watched/ was watching it for about fifteen minutes. It travelled/ was travelling quite slowly from east to west and then it suddenly disappeared. Until now I never believed/ have never believed in UFOs, although my son is forever trying to persuade me that they exist. But now I think that maybe he is/ was right.'At the height of the panic, police stations got/ were getting around a thousand calls an hour from members of the public. Sergeant Ron Drake of the Ambledale police was particularly busy. 'Between 10 and 11 o'clock we received around thirty calls. The callers said they saw/ were seeing a single blue light about as big as a car over the village. We are now considering searching the fields around Ambledale for any evidence left behind.'
Dr Bart Mastow, a lecturer in astronomy at Trumpton University offers/ offered a simple explanation. 'The reports that came/ were coming in last night suggest/ suggested that it was a meteor shower. This is not unusual on a small scale, but last night's shower seems to have been very large. In fact, we are getting an increasing number of meteor showers, and my department is currently researching possible reasons for this.'
But many witnesses to the events believe that they observed/ were observing more than a meteor shower, and the Ministry of Defence says that they take/ are taking the reports of UFO sightings very seriously
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