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The disturbing history of cat abuse: Public hangings, pipe beatings and The Great Cat Massacre

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The recent DNA study making headlines about the “worldwide conquest” of cats — a migration that included cruising on Viking ships, probably without an all-inclusive drinks package — was exhaustive and fascinating, but ultimately insulting to cats. They were not given props for conquering the world despite enduring some of the most brutal cruelty ever directed at any animal, like the time in 1730s Paris when apprentice printers revolted against their bosses by holding a mock trial for dozens of neighborhood cats. Read More...

The Vietnam War | Protests in Chicago, 1968 | Episode 7

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Funding for The Vietnam War is provided by Bank of America; Corporation for Public Broadcasting; David H. Koch; The Blavatnik Family Foundation; Park Foundation; The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations; The …More Funding for The Vietnam War is provided by Bank of America; Corporation for Public Broadcasting; David H. Koch; The Blavatnik Family Foundation; Park Foundation; The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations; The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation; The Andrew W. Read More...

They considered themselves white, but DNA tests told a more complex story

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As more Americans take advantage of genetic testing to pinpoint the makeup of their DNA, the technology is coming head to head with the country’s deep-rooted obsession with race and racial myths. This is perhaps no more true than for the growing number of self-identified European Americans who learn they are actually part African. For those who are surprised by their genetic heritage, the new information can often set into motion a complicated recalibration of how they view their identity. Read More...