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14

Dec

Aha Moment Maker: Word Magic

by Your friends at OIC on December 14, 2013

Abracadabra

ANCIENT ROME—Today, “abracadabra” is a word we instantly recognize and associate with magicians and magic tricks. However, the history of this unique word is as much medical, as it is magical.

Abracadambra TriangleThe first recorded use of he word “abracadabra” was in a Latin medical poem by the Roman physician Quintus Serenus Sammonicus in the 2nd Century AD. His prescription for those with malaria or fever was to wear an amulet around their neck with “abracadabra” written in the form of a triangle. The contention was that this “formula” would funnel the sickness out of the body.  Read more...

 

Your Own Aha Moments

07

Dec

Aha Moment Maker: Where’d You Get Those Jeans?

by Your friends at OIC on December 7, 2013

Jeans2

EUROPE, 1650—It’s hard to think of something more “American” than a good old pair of blue jeans. As it happens, historians have long argued the origin of the iconic trousers, and America might not even have a leg to stand on in the debate!

The French make their case with a sturdy fabric that originated in the 17th century in Nimes, France. Pants made from the fabric “serge de Nimes” were favored by plantation workers for their durability. Since fabrics at that time were commonly named for their place of origin, it became known as “de Nimes,” which is widely considered the source of the word “denim.”  Read more...

 

Your Own Aha Moments

30

Nov

Aha Moment Maker: Who’s in Charge?

by Your friends at OIC on November 30, 2013

Politician

WASHINGTON D.C., 1849—America was preparing to inaugurate its 12th President, Zachary Taylor, who had been elected to take over for James K. Polk. At that time, Presidential terms began and expired at noon on March 4. However, this particular March 4 happened to be a Sunday, and the religious Taylor insisted that he instead be sworn in on Monday.

The resulting 24-hour gap has led many to wonder, who was the President of the United States from noon on March 4, 1849, until noon on March 5, 1849?  Read more...

 

Your Own Aha Moments

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