Descriptions of Topics and
Number of Slides Per Power Point Presentation:
1. Angel Island: Gateway to Land of the Golden Mountains 35
Often known as the Ellis Island of the West Coast, Angel Island in San Francisco Bay was THE reception station for transpacific immigration, especially from China, Japan, Korea and Russia. This presentation discusses the history of Angel Island and how immigration doctors there dealt with the threat of pandemics, such as Asian Cholera, the Asiatic Bubonic Plague, and so on. It describes the differences in treatment of immigrants to the West Coast from those coming from Europe to the east coast.
2. The Big Dig: Enabling the Canal 33
Undoubtedly one of the greatest engineering feats of all time, the digging of the Panama Canal was a feat of American “can-do” spirit that completed, in 1914, a project that had earlier stymied the then major world-power French effort in 1870. This presentation discusses the fascinating story with drama, intrigue, science, and much more relevant history to today’s modern commerce than most people realize. Key people and laborers died in significant numbers. They didn’t know why. Then, 30 years later, an emerging nation that had no real world power suddenly entered the arena, the United States under President Teddy Roosevelt. New technologies from building the transcontinental railroad across the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains were employed to complete a canal the French could not. A U.S. army doctor conquered the lowly mosquito and enabled the “Big Dig.” A magnificent story of tragedy and conquest, this venture was equal to or exceeded any other in human history. Learn how the building of the Panama Canal impacted travel, health care, and world history.
3. Boston: The Making of an Irish American City 48
Historic Boston, cradle of the American Revolution, and the quintessential Irish American city! Historian Mike LeMay explains why a couple of million Irish left their native land, a vast number of whom came to the United States, and many of whom settled in Boston. This presentation covers when and why they came, and how they shaped the cultural, economic, and political life of Boston, and so much of American politics. It highlights famous Irish American politicians from Curly to the Kennedys.
4. Central American Immigration to America 34
Millions of persons emigrated from Central American countries north to the United States. This presentation traces from whence they came, and why they left, and why they were drawn here. It covers their important “post-1970” flow that figured into U.S. legal, illegal and refugee immigration policy, and assesses their “blessing or burden” impact on the United States, as well as the effect of the “brain drain” on Central American sending countries like El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and so on.
5. Christendom’s Greatest Basilica—St. Peters, Rome,
Have They Found the Bones of St. Peter? 48
Historian Mike LeMay presents a fascinating look at St. Peter’s and the three churches that occupied the site. Focusing on the current basilica, he examines its amazing architecture, its lavish interiors and altars, and concludes with a discussion of the archaeological project to uncover the tomb and St. Peter and the evidence excavated that indicates they may have, indeed, found the remains of the great saint and the first bishop of Rome.
6. Cruise Ship Vacationing. 27
Planning on cruise vacationing? Wondering about where it is best to reserve a cabin on board ship? Do you want to know some of the “ins and outs” of cruise ship travel? This presentation covers all the questions and topics you might have about taking a vacation on a cruise ship—from small river boat cruises in Europe to the “big ships” of the world’s major oceans. Mike LeMay is a frequent “special interest lecturer” on board cruise line ships of such major cruise lines as Celebrity and Royal Caribbean. He shares insights he has gleaned from taking many such trips.
7. Ellis Island: Gateway to America 31
Did any of your ancestors come to America through Ellis Island? Chances are they did, as one in four Americans has discovered they can trace ancestors to and through Ellis Island. This historical presentation shows why Ellis Island is America’s most famous and most important immigration reception station, having processed 70 to 80 percent of all the millions of immigrants who came to America in the 1890s to 1940s. It explains how devices and procedures developed and used at Ellis Island enabled more than 35 million immigrants to be safely processed there, all the while coping with the threat of several pandemic diseases, including the infamous “Spanish influenza” of 1918-1919, which world-wide killed an estimated 50 million people, thereby becoming the deadliest pandemic in human history.
8. Exodus from the British Isles 35
Why did millions come from England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland to permanently settle in the United States? This presentation covers not only the “why” of that great mass migration, but also the “when” and the “where” of it, as well as the profound impact it had on the development of the United States’ cities, industry, economy, and military might. If you had any ancestors from the British Isles, you will want to explore this historical analysis of your heritage.
9. From Bremen to Baltimore: German Immigration to the U.S. 33
Cities like Baltimore and Milwaukee have been characterized as “the German Athens” of America. This presentation explores why the linkage between Bremen, the major port of embarkation in Germany, and Baltimore, a major receiving port in the U.S., were forged in the 1840s and beyond. It discusses the impact of that flow on railroad development, and on German settlement patterns in the United States. It discusses the cultural, economic, military, and political impact of German-Americans through the prism of the great city of Baltimore, Maryland.
10. From Open Door to Revolving Door: Cycles of Immigration 35
This presentation distinguishes five major “eras” or cycles of immigration to the United States. It covers who came during each era, why they came to the United States and where they tended to settle here. It details their impact on American society in each era, and how these immigrants influenced immigration policy, and vice-versa.
11. From Sailing Ships to Luxury Liners 40
From wooden-hulled, “packet” sailing ships that carried a few to a few dozen passengers, to the steel-hulled great ocean liners that plied the Atlantic and Pacific oceans each carrying thousands of passengers, the flow of immigrants around the world dramatically impacted the technological development of ships, and the economics of that great mass migration influenced the modality of trans-ocean travel. This presentation explores five “eras” in the development of passenger vessels, linking each era to the flow of immigrants that propelled such developments. Immigration historian Mike LeMay links the history of immigration to the United States to world-wide “maritime history” in this lively presentation using a variety of text and photographic slides.
12. The Great Transatlantic Migration 32
The 19th and early 20th centuries have been called “the Age of Mass Migration.” Why did more than 70 million people leave Europe for the United States? Historian Mike LeMay focuses on the impact that great migration had upon the development of vessels to transport people. He distinguishes five “eras” of ship development, from wooden sailing ships, to the early years of ocean-going steamships; from steel-hulled side-wheelers, to the era of the ocean liner. He concludes with the luxury liners of today, drawing linkages to the flow of immigration in each era and how that flow influenced the design of ships, including why vacation liners developed since the 1970s.
13. The Great Transpacific Migration 34
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the mass migration of hundreds of thousands of mostly Asian immigrants leaving their homelands of China, Japan, and Korea for the United States crossing the Pacific by ship. Historian Mike LeMay uncovers the impact that great mass migration had upon the development of vessels to transport those hundreds of thousands of immigrants to America, distinguishing five eras of development from wooden sailing ships to the ocean steamship liners. He draws linkages between the flow of immigration in each era and how that flow influenced the design of ships. He also highlights the reception given to Asian immigrants—the Chinese, Japanese, and Korean—upon arrival to the United States.
14. Grosse Island: Gateway to Canada 35
Grosse Ile, in the great St. Lawrence River just below Quebec, Canada, is to Canadian immigration what Ellis Island is to United States immigration. Immigration historian Mike LeMay details the development of the immigration station at Grosse Island from the 1830s to the 1950s and its profound impact on Canadian history, making Canada, like the United States, truly a “nation of nations.” This presentation discusses the “who, what, when, where, and why” of the flow of immigrants to Canada through its most important immigration reception and quarantine station.
15. Halifax: Gateway to Canada’s East 33
Halifax was the most important immigration station on Canada’s east coast. The city became a leader in the development of shipping in the British empire, led by the famous Samuel Cunard, the Scott immigrant who led the development of the shipping industry in Canada, and from there to that of the empire. This discussion of the great port city of Halifax highlights the unique role played by the city in Canadian and in maritime history.
16. Heroes in Rise of Modern Medicine 29
The 19th Century is justifiably known as the Age of Pandemics. This interesting historical look at the development of modern medicine and its ability to conquer the great pandemic diseases that were the scourge of humanity in the 19th century explores the pioneering work of French, German, Spanish, and Swedish medical scientists in discovering and proving germ theory, and how their insights enabled medicine to effectively combat epidemics. It covers doctors who applied those insights to effectively control the spread of epidemics while processing the millions of immigrants who carried the “fellow travelers” with them.
17. Illegal Immigration 38
Ever wonder why there are so many millions of illegal immigrants in America? Why the national government can’t seem to control our border? This presentation explains the “policy conundrum” that is unauthorized immigration. It covers the issue from its historical roots to its present-day political stalemate. It focuses on who the unauthorized immigrants are, and how and why they became “illegal immigrants.” It explores the precedents of the flow from failures and gaps to unanticipated consequences of the nation’s legal immigration policy. It analyzes the “push and pull” factors of this mass migration flow—now estimated about 11 to 12 million. It discusses why good politics often results in bad policy, and vice-versa.
18. Illegal Immigration To and Through Mexico 44
Mexico has a problem with an illegal immigration flow that has some important similarities, as well as some significant differences with the illegal immigration flow to the United States, in which Mexico plays such a crucially important role. This historical discussion details when and from whence immigrants pass to and through Mexico illegally. It discusses Mexico’s much harsher (than U.S.) policy attempting to control that flow. It explains how that flow passes through Mexico to the United States, and details similarities that Mexico has with its Central American border with that of the southern border of the United States with Mexico.
19. Immigration and the Rise of Public Health 34
This presentation discusses how world-wide mass migration during the 1800s, at levels unprecedented in human history, led to modern medicine and to the public health service. It shows how German, Russian, French, and Swedish medical scientists and American doctors of the U.S. Marine Hospital Service (now the U.S. Public Health Service) established science-based public health practices.
20. Immigration from Northwestern Europe 42
This presentation explores the mass migration from Northwestern Europe to the United States in the period of 1820-1880, when those coming were characterized by historians and immigration scholars as “the old immigrant” wave. It distinguishes five cycles of immigration, focusing on the “Open-Door Cycle” when millions came from Germany, Ireland, and the Scandinavian countries. It discusses why and when they came, where they settled in the United States, and their profound impact on American society—from its culture and economics to its politics.
21. Immigration from South/Central/Eastern Europe to America 37
This historical presentation discusses the flow of “new” immigrants to the United States between 1880 and 1920, from South/Central/Eastern European nations. It covers the various “push” and “pull” factors influencing that immigration flow. It details where they came from and where they settled in the United States, exploring the concept of “chain migration” flows. It illustrates their profound impact on American life and society, and on the varied pattern of their assimilation.
22. Immigration and National Security 51
Throughout American history the nation’s perceived sense of national security has been inherently tied to immigration policy. This presentation discusses that linkage, and how national security concerns and issues influenced immigration policymaking, and vice-versa. It is no exaggeration to state that immigrants made America to be the world’s greatest superpower.
23. Little Known “Bands of Brothers,” German and Irish Immigrants
in the U.S. Civil War 41
This presentation is a historical discussion of the significant role German- and Irish-born immigrants played in events leading up to and through the many military engagements of the Civil War. It details their numbers, the precedent they set for future wars about military service speeding up naturalization, and on the impact that war service had on them and upon their assimilation into American life and society after the war. It describes post-war land grants, and how those “payments for military service” influenced the subsequent settlement and development patterns into the Midwest and Western states.
24. Lost Scriptures of the Bible: Old and New Testament 36
This is a historical discussion focusing on the archaeological discoveries of the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Nag Hammadi Library (Egypt), as well as the “re-discovery” of fragments in various monasteries and archives around the world. These old sacred writings provide new insight into the beliefs of the “Peoples of the Book”--of Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. It emphasizes non-canonical texts like the Gnostic and Coptic Gospels, and why they were excluded from the Canon and “lost” for centuries. It explores how their stories, through oral tradition, inspired the legends and many works of Eastern and Western European art. It discusses such works as the Secret Gospel of Mary, the Acts of John, the Acts of Peter, the Acts of Thomas, the Egyptian Gospel, and the Gospel of the Hebrews.
25. North America: Culture of Cultures 38
What makes “ethnicity”? What is an ethnic enclave? How does ethnocentrism influence our “We”, and “They” thinking? What are the dimensions of personal and group identity? This presentation answers those and similar questions, as it discusses the many and varied subcultures that make up North America as a culture of cultures. It describes subcultures based on national origin, on religion, and on race and on what difference these varied bases for minority status make to the subculture and the majority culture. It presents a system’s framework for approaching ethnic relations, and offers a “kaleidoscope” image as a metaphor of cultural identity.
26. On Ships and Trains and Airplanes [2 part presentation] 60
Learn about the history of the vessels of mass transportation from sailing ships to cruise ships, John Bull to Amtrak, prop planes to jet liners. Meet some of the preeminent people who fostered the development of various transportation modalities, and hear how history impacted travel and how travel impacted history. Part One: On Ships – 30 slides; Part Two: On Trains and Planes -30 slides
27. The Great Iberian Exodus 34
Immigration historian Mike LeMay explains Spain’ and Portugal’s emigration and Spain’s “illegal immigration” since 2007. He explores the two eras of emigration from Spain to South and Central America, and to the United States, discussing why they left, where they went, and highlights the post-1880 immigration from Spain. He examines emigration from Portugal; why they were “pushed out” during Portugal’s colonial period, and highlights their immigration to the United States.
28. The Great Italian Diaspora 38
Ever wonder why so many millions of people left Italy between 1870 and 1920? Immigration authority, Mike LeMay, explains why more than 7 million Italians left their homeland, fleeing epidemics, wars of unification, and dire poverty to brave the arduous transatlantic journey to America. He covers major ports of embarkation, their destinations in North and South America, with an emphasis on Ellis Island in New York City, where more Italian immigrants entered the United States than those from any other country.
29. The Great Trek North: Post-Civil War African American Migration 43
The Civil War can justifiably be called America’s Second Revolutionary War. This was a war that contributed to the agricultural revolution, industrial revolution, and the transformation of the United States from a rural to an urban society. Black Americans played a critical role in this revolutionary transformation. This presentation includes a discussion of the great migration north by freed slaves after the Civil War to such cities as Chicago, Detroit, New York, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. It addresses the agricultural states, the role of the “Buffalo Soldiers” during the Plains-Indian Wars of the 1870s, and the development of the “black ghettos” of northern cities due to social segregation in the era of pre-W.W. I. It covers the various coping strategies proposed for the newly freed citizens by prominent Black leaders, such as Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglas, Marcus Garvey, W.E.B. DuBois, George Washington Carver and Booker T. Washington. It explores a unique time in the nation’s history.
30. The Norse Vikings: Barbarian Raiders or Intrepid Global Explorers 39
Who and what were the real Vikings of yore? This historical review examines The Viking Age, 793-1066; their expansion through Western and Eastern Europe, into the Mediterranean, and across the vast Atlantic. Using examples of rune stones, Mike LeMay presents the evidence that they may have explored as far as America’s mid-west. He discusses some common misconceptions about the Vikings, their pagan and Christian heritage, and Viking mythology, which is featured in the famous “Ring Cycle” of opera composer Richard Wagner. He concludes with an examination of the evidence that in the mid-1300’s, the Vikings may have reached America’s interior to present-day Minnesota and Oklahoma—preceding Columbus’ “discovery” of America by more than a century.
31. The Mystique of the Caribbean: Why It Draws Us 46
This fun presentation looks at the unique culture of the Caribbean region and why it has become such a tourist haven. From its music, to its art, to its foods, to its religions, this presentation explores the fascinating region that is the Caribbean, and what are some of the fun activities available to the tourist to the region.
32 The Mysteries of the Bermuda Triangle: Fact or Fiction? 26
What are the various theories proposed to account for the disappearances of ships and planes in the famed “Bermuda Triangle”? This presentation discusses the area, how and why it became notorious as the “graveyard” of ships and planes. It recounts some of the more famous “disappearances.” It debunks the “theories,” concluding that it is all hype and that there is not really any “mystery” to solve.
33. The Real Pirates of the Caribbean: Not Your Disney Cruise 31
The Bahamas were one of the major Caribbean sites from which pirates, like the notorious Edward Teach, aka Black Beard, plied their piracy in the Caribbean Sea. This intriguing presentation explains why pirates, privateers, and buccaneers developed during the “Golden Age of Piracy.” It covers the notorious pirates and their famous ships. It looks at those who sailed “the Spanish Main.” It concludes with a discussion of piracy then and now; why and where it has resurged in current times.
34. The Rise and Expansion of the Church of Jesus Christ of the
Latter Day Saints: The Mormon’s Great Trek West 30
When and where did the Mormon church arise? How did it relate to “The Great Awakening” of Protestant revivalism in America? What were the great migrations of the Mormons to ever-more “frontier” settlements? Why were they persecuted, and what role did the doctrine of polygamy play in their migrations? Who were the great Mormon leaders, and when, where, and why did it “factionalize” into several major schisms? When, how, and why are they growing so large internationally? These questions are addressed and answers proposed in this historical discussion and analysis of the Mormon church in America, and now the world.
35. The Search for a New Zion: Immigration and Religious Community
Resettlement 37
Religion has often been the basis for whole-community resettlements, as religious sects or factions were persecuted and sought to migrate to a new “holy Zion” by establishing settlements in the new world. This presentation traces the Anabaptist foundations of such resettlements by the Quakers, Shakers, and Dunkers; and by the Old Order Amish and Mennonites. It details their migrations, their leaders, and their tendency towards schisms that often compelled seeking new settlements to practice their faith. It discusses why religion is so often such a compelling “push” factor in international migrations, and why they were drawn to America to set up their new Zion.
36. The Rise of the Black Muslims in America 32
In the 1930s the black ghettos of large city urban America saw the rise and rapid expansion of the Nation of Islam. This presentation discusses the roots of this movement and American-grown Black Muslim religion. It covers why they arose, what they believe, and what are their “ethnic boundary markers” that set them aside from the majority culture, much like the Old-Order Amish and the Old-Order Mennonites are so distinct. Ironically, there are interesting parallels to the Hasidic sect of ultra-conservative Jews in America. It discusses the strategy of “racial separatism” and why they pursue that option among the several coping strategies employed by Black Americans. This presentation covers their history, their leaders, and their major schisms, from Elijah Muhammad to Malcolm X to Wallace Deen Muhammad to Minister Farrakhan. It relates their unique place among Islamic traditions in the world. It is an intriguing look at comparative religion in the United States.
37. The Resurgence of Mass Migration to the U.S., 2000-2010 41
From 2000-2010, the U.S. received the greatest number of immigrants than in any single decade in its history. There are now 40 million foreign-born immigrants in the U.S. as of 2010 census, the greatest number, although not the highest percentage of the population, in U.S. history. This presentation cover topics including the reasons for this renewed flow, why mass migration has surged since 1980, and especially in the decade 2000-2010. It covers resettlement patterns, source of the flow, and compares U.S. with other receiving countries facing an illegal flow. It discusses the roots of this flow, problems and controversies to which it gives rise, and comprehensive reform.
38. The Great Schisms of Christianity 32
There were two great schisms in Christianity. The first, East/West Schism,
of 1054, the second, the schism of 1378 to 1415 , the Western Schism of the church over
the role and power of the papacy. The latter led directly to the Protestant Reformation movement begun in the early 1500s. This presentation addresses when and why the Holy Roman Empire formed, why it split into Eastern Orthodoxy and Western Roman Catholicism, and how those schisms ultimately led to the Protestant Reformation. Using text slides, photo slides, and map slides, it covers the various Councils of the unified Christian church, and how political issues of both church and state, and linguistic, geographic, theological, ecclesiastical, and doctrinal issues led to the major divisions that now characterize the Christian world and the separation of church and state in the West.
39. Hawaii: Pacific Gateway to America 37
Hawaii served as the stepping stone for immigration to the U.S. from the so-called “Asian Pacific Triangle Zone.” This presentation discusses the special role played in the flow of immigrants to the U.S. and how the U.S. Marine Hospital Service doctors stationed there helped battle Asiatic Cholera, Bubonic Plague, Malaria, and similar threats of pandemics, establishing an “early warning system” that became the precursor to today’s Centers for Disease Control.
40. From Polynesian Paradise, with Love: Immigration from the Pacific Isles to the U.S. 33
Sometimes banned and always restricted by special limitations, immigrants to the U.S. from the Pacific Isles worked in “niche” occupations and quietly assimilated into the majority culture. This historical presentation uncovers their colorful and rather unique immigration and incorporation story.
41. From Southamption to Auckland: British Immigration to New Zealand 34
Immigrants from the British Isles opened New Zealand to European colonization and forever influenced the “British flavor” that characterizes New Zealand’s cultural heritage. This presentation provides a brief overview of the history of immigration to New Zealand from Europe and the special role played by those from the British Isles.
42. Clash of Cultures: The British and the Maori in New Zealand. 27
Just as Euro-Americans clashed with the Native American Indians like the Seminole Tribe in Florida, when the British arrived in 1841 to settle and colonize New Zealand, they began a clash of cultures with the native Maori people and with their Polynesian culture. This presentation provides an historical overview of the two peoples and cultural clash emerging from the colonization of the British Empire in the Pacific Region.
43. Myths of the Maori and Australia’s Aboriginal People: Common Archetypal Stories of Humanity. 39
Nearly every human culture in history has some common myth/stories that account for the human condition and mankind’s relationship with nature, the Divine, and each other. Cosmic stories of the Creation of Man, of the Great Flood, of the gods dwelling among mankind, of the fall and redemption, and so on resonate throughout mankind’s assorted ancient cultures. This presentation describes the major “myths” of the Maori and of Australia’s Aboriginal tribes, and with the similarities and differences of those myth stories with those of other major cultures of the world.
44. From Wellington to Washington: Immigration from New Zealand to the U.S. 37
There has been a small but steady significant flow of immigration from New Zealand to the U.S. This historical presentation uncovers the “who, when, where, and why” of that migration, as well as discussing how they assimilated so easily into U.S. society.
45. From Prison Colony to Bastion of Britain’s Pacific Empire: Immigration
To Australia. 41
As a percentage of their total population, Australia rivals the U.S. as a major immigration receiving nation, and its immigration history parallels, in many respects, that of the U.S. This presentation uncovers the history of immigration to Australia, mostly from the British Isles. Employing material from his book, The Gatekeepers: Comparative Immigration Policy, immigration historian Michael LeMay discusses the colonial era (1788-1850), the impact of Australia’s “gold rush” (1850-1900), the era of nation, empire, and the Commonwealth (1900-1945), and its “populate or perish” era (1945 to date), when non-British and non-European immigration predominated. It concludes with a discussion of current Australian attitudes to ethnic diversity.
46. From Sydney to San Francisco: Immigration from Australia to the U.S. 39
Immigration from Australia to the U.S. has long been small but significant. This historical discussion focuses on uncovering the “when, where, and why” of that flow, as well as the reasons for the rapid assimilation of the “Aussies” into American culture, economy, and social life.
47. When Empires Clash: W.W. II and Australia’s Role in the Defeat of the
Japanese Empire. 44
Australia played a unique role in the epic conflict between British, American, and Japanese empires leading up to and through W.W. II, as they fought for hegemony in the Pacific Region. This historical discussion of Australia’s role in W.W. II demonstrates their distinctive and critically important impact on that conflict, as well as the struggle for dominance in the region that seemed inevitable for these rival Pacific Empires.
48. Big Brother Is Watching: Post- 9/11 Immigration and National Security Policy
Changes. 31
The attacks on the Twin Towers in NYC and the Pentagon in D.C. on
9/11 led to profound changes in national security concerns and policy that impacted in significant ways U.S. immigration policy as well. The tension between national security issues and immigration policy affected immigrants from the Middle East in particular. Human rights concerns and alleged abuses followed the initial hysteria that characterized the policy changes and security laws after 9/11. This presentation covers that inherent tension between national security and human rights aspects of U.S. immigration law and policy. The presentation covers the USA Patriot Act, NSEERS, SEVIS, and US-VISIT policy as well as the abolishment of the INS and the establishment of the DHS, the Homeland Security Act of 2002, the Real ID Act of 2005, the U.S. Fence Act of 2006, and the extension of the Patriot Act by both the Bush and the Obama Administrations.
49. Ring of Fire: Causes and Consequences. 36
We erroneously think of the world of land – terra firma—as stable beneath our feet. In fact, science has proven that the underlying “plates” below the continents and the oceans of the world are in reality constantly moving. Gigantic plates are thrust up in some parts and are subsumed in others as the various adjoining plates grind together, giving rise to islands, mountains, great rifts or trenches, volcanoes, earthquakes, and tsunamis. This presentation describes plate theory, its likely causes, and its multiple and often violent consequences. The great Pacific Ring of Fire is one of the world’s most active zones exhibiting those dramatic consequences of the movement of the Pacific plate against the North American and Asian plates. It discusses these forces which gave rise to the many volcanic islands of the Pacific, the several great trenches under the Pacific Ocean, the formation of vast mountain ranges on the continents, the “sudden slippage” of stress or fault lines that result in earthquakes ranging from tremors to massively destructive quakes on land, and awesome and horrendous tsunamis when occurring under the sea.
50. Mediterranean Mass Migrations. 35
This historical presentation focuses on the great movements of peoples that came to populate the Mediterranean region, the “cradle of civilization.” The vast movements of peoples through the region gave rise to successive empires, each of which for significant periods of time dominated the region. It discusses how those mass migrations shaped the cultures, economy, and military might of successive civilizations dominating the Mediterranean world; mass migrations, forever shaping the world as we know it today.
51. Nectar of the Gods: Beer 30
This fun presentation talks all about beer—the world’s oldest and most popular alcoholic beverage. It discusses the brewing process, a brief history of beer brewing, the ingredients used, the variety of types of beer, beer production and consumption by country of origin, and some of the most popular brands from each major beer producing country.
52. Nectar of the Gods: Fruit of the Vine. 30
This fun presentation discusses the second oldest and second most popular alcoholic beverage in the world—wine. It covers a brief history of wine making by fermentation of fruit—mainly grapes. It covers the process of wine making, its uses in religious and other ceremony, differences in types of wine; wine and various food pairings, as well as the production and consumption rates of wine in various nations of origin.
53. Nectar of the Gods: Liquor. 32
This fun presentation covers the third oldest and third most popular alcoholic beverage—liquor. It presents a brief history of liquor. It describes the various type of liquor, their production methods, as well as production and consumption rates for the top 15 countries of the world. It focuses on whisky with a wee bit of history of whisky making, types of whiskey, what influences the flavor, color, and aroma of types of whiskey, as well as the major whiskey producing countries of the world.
54. The Blue Riband: Race for Pride and Glory. 31
This historical presentation covers the intense competition among passenger ship liners for the “prize” called the Blue Riband, for the fastest transatlantic crossing. It discusses the importance of the concept of the award and its unofficial and official versions. It offers a brief history of the award from 1838 up to today. It details exemplary ships which held the Blue Riband during five eras: the Paddle-Wheel Era, the Single-Screw Ship Era, the Double-Screw Ship Era, the Ships of State Era, and the Post-1969 Hales Trophy Era. It concludes with a few points on the importance of the prize on naval transport design and technology.
55. The Clash of Titans: Brunel vs. Cunard. 32
This historical presentation discusses the rivalry between the two major transatlantic shipping magnates: Isambard Kingdom Brunel and Samuel Cunard. It presents a brief bio-sketch of each of their lives, how the competition between their two companies—The Great Western Line, and the Cunard Line—shaped the development of all the transatlantic lines, the development of passenger vessels from the steam propelled, ocean-going side wheel paddle ships to the single and then double-screw iron-hulled liners, and how the two lines emerged with the eventual triumph of the Cunard Line as THE dominate line of the Atlantic Ocean passenger liners. It concludes with the impact of their rivalry on ship technology development.
56. The Pacific Ring of Fire: Causes and Consequences. 36
The area known as the Pacific Ring of Fire is the world’s most seismically active
region. This interesting and dynamic presentation discusses the Ring of Fire, defining and describing the region. It describes the theory of plate tectonics and discusses the various sub-regions comprising the “arc” of volcanic, earthquake, tsunami activity, and mountain-building. It defines plate tectonics and plate boundaries and the driving forces of plate motion. It explains the theory of continental drift. A major portion of the presentation explains the consequences of plate tectonics: mountain formation, volcanoes and their eruptions, earthquakes and tsunamis, and their effect on climate change, concluding with the major extinction of the Mesozoic Era. It employs colorful and activated text and photograph slides, maps, diagrams and figures.
57. Blowing Their Tops: Causes and Effects of Super-Volcanic Eruptions 36
Throughout human history there have been rare but episodic super eruptions of volcanoes, like Mt. Etna, Krakatoa, Pinatabo, Thera (Santorini), St. Helens, and Vesuvius. This fascinating presentation defines supervolcanoes and describes the plate tectonics involved. It features the North American Cordillera and its Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt; it’s Western Cascade Volcanic Arc; and Canada’s Volcanism. It highlights other countries with Super-volcanic activity: Japan, Philippines, Indonesia, New Zealand.
It explains the cause of super volcanoes and their explosions—plate tectonics. It covers exemplary super-explosions of the past: Mt. Etna, Krakatoa, Pinatubo, Thera, St. Helens, and Vesuvius. It presents diagrams and maps of super-volcanoes and identifies the six known super volcanoes. It closes with a brief discussion of the Mesozoic Era extinction widely believed to have been caused by volcanic-caused world-wide climate change.
58. Great Cuisines of the World: Mediterranean. 35
There are many regions of the world notable for their distinctive and mouth-watering cuisine. This presentation is a feast for your eyes and ears as it discusses a cuisine that justifiably is ranked among the “great” ones of the world. It discusses the basic ingredients common to the various dishes that comprise this cuisine, as well as the methods of cooking employed. It highlights the countries and cultures which make up the Mediterranean region. It covers the beverages—alcoholic and non-alcoholic—that typically accompany and go best with the food of the Mediterranean. It presents in photographic and textual slides many examples of the dishes distinctive of the region, and closes with a bibliography of sources to read more about the topic.
59. Il Risorgemento: Italy’s Wars of Unification. 34
From 1815 to 1870, Italy experienced an era and movement known as “The Risorgimento,” or The Resurgence. This era of intense economic, cultural, military, political, and social upheaval and turmoil ultimately led to the unification of the modern state of Italy. This historical presentation of a dynamic period of Italy’s tumultuous past covers the early revolutionary attempts in NW Europe, including Italy. It describes and details the creation of the State of Italy, 1848-1859, focusing on its four major leaders (“The Fathers of Nation”), its Third War of Independence in 1866, and its final unification in 1870. It concludes with a discussion of the impact of the Risorgimento, including the massive emigration of millions from Italy and Sicily, 1870-1920; and the rise of Mussolini.
60. Great Explorers of This World and Beyond: From Leif Ericson to Neil
Armstrong. 35
This historical review presentation examines 15 of the greatest explorers in human history. It begins with a look at Leif Ericson and Marco Polo—two explorers, one by sea and one by land—who predated the “Age of Discovery.” It then reviews ten of the explorers of the Age of Discovery, 1400-1600, covering Portuguese, Spanish, Italian, and British explorers who braved the Atlantic to open the New World, or sailed the Pacific to open new lands for colonization and trade, and closes with three modern world explorers.
61. Citizenship by Fire: German and Irish Immigrants in the Aerican
Civil War. 36
Legal immigrants to the U.S. most wait five years before they can become naturalized citizens—and the typical or average time is seven to ten years. But by service in the U.S. military, an immigrant, even illegal immigrants, can become citizens in one year after their honorable discharge, a powerful incentive to serve in the military forces. This historical presentation focuses on the role the two largest waves of immigrants prior to the Civil War, the Germans and the Irish, respectively played in the war, and how their often heroic service set the precedent for the military service basis for expedited naturalization—for citizenship by fire. It discusses their numbers, their important role among the general officer rank, their awards for valor, and the major battles in which German and Irish brigades fought with great distinction to earn this new “path to citizenship by service under fire.” They set the precedent that has held for every armed conflict in which the United States has been engaged since the Civil War.
62. Reflections of Dreamtime: Myths of Australia’s Aboriginal Peoples. 38
Myths are stories of truths, not true stories. This engaging presentation discusses the major myth stories of Australia’s Aboriginal Peoples. It defines and describes the Aboriginal concept of dreamtime, the concept of myths and myth stories, their origin, functions, and why every society develops its own myths. It details the myth milestones of Australia and the Pacific Islands and compares Australian Aboriginal myth stories with some of those from the Polynesian Islands. It compares classical myths to Austronesian myths as archetypal stories of humanity, looking at some myths from Hawaii, Samoa and Fiji, and common flood stories of Australia, New Zealand, and Polynesia. It lists some major Aboriginal Deities, and closes with a brief discussion of Comparative Mythology.
63. Tales of the South Pacific: Polynesian Myths. 35
This fascinating presentation covers the major myths of the various Polynesian peoples: Hawaii, Fiji, Samoa, the Maori of New Zealand. It defines and describes myths and myth stories: their origin and functions, and why every society develops myth stories. It compares Polynesian myth or archetypal stories to classical myth stories of Greece and Rome. It closes with a brief look at comparative mythology.
64. Olympian Gods: Myths of Ancient Greece. 31
This presentation is a colorful and lively look at the mythology of ancient Greece. It defines and describes the concept of myths, the origins of myths and society, and the concept of archetypal stories of humanity. It focuses on classical Greek myths—their sources and the Ages of Greek Gods and Demigods. It compares these Greek myth stories with others from around the world.
65. The Gods Among Us: Myths of Ancient Rome. 30
This presentation covers the mythology of ancient Rome. After defining myths and myth stories is context, it discusses the origin and functions of myths and their relation to society. It features the sources of Roman mythology and Roman myth in art. It describes the Roman deities: their original gods, those adopted and adapted from Greek civilization, their gods of daily life, and their “monster” stories. It discusses the origin theories of Roman mythology and then compares Roman mythology to ten other world mythologies. It discusses film as the modern version of telling myth stories.
66. Mayan Myths: Mayan Time. 31
This historical presentation is all about Mayan myths and the infamous Mayan calendar. It defines myths and their use in context. It features the important mythical themes found in the Mayan culture and details Mayan myth stories about the creation and end of the world, action of heroes, marriage with the earth, and stories of the origin of the sun and the moon. It looks at classical myths as archetypal stories of humanity, and at the pre-Spanish arrival mythology of Mesoamerica. It presents the pantheon of Mayan deities. It covers the intriguing Mayan calendar and the Mayan concepts of time, of the Long Count, the Lunar series and lunar deity, of the Short Count and of the Venus cycle. It looks at comparative mythology, and relates Mayan mythology to ten other mythologies of the world. It closes with the topic of modern myth story telling in films.
67. The Bible and Myths: Parallels and Contrasts. 31
This lively and colorful presentation discusses the Jewish and Christian Bible as revelation, history, metaphor, and allegory. It defines the concept of myths and discusses myth-stories of the bible in context of Jewish society and history. It focuses on the origin and functions of bible stories: on legend, folktales, and embellishments of historical accounts. It defines the concept of revelation and the development of the “canon”—the orthodoxy and acceptance as valid books for inclusion in both the Torah and Old Testament bible, and for inclusion in the New Testament of the Christian bible. It looks at parallels in themes or types of stories in both the bible and common myth stories found in cultures around the world. It provides examples (via colorful and classical western art representation) of bible stories from both the old and the new testaments. It looks at 15 world mythologies and their stories in comparison to bible stories. It looks at film as the modern version of telling myth stories, and gives examples of both the bible stories in film and of bible-themes in science fiction films.
68. The Shrinking Globe: Around the World in Years, Months, Days, Hours—
BY Sea, Land, Air, and Space 34
This light and engaging presentation is all about circumnavigation of the globe. It covers definitions of circumnavigation, and presents a list of “firsts” to do so by various methods of travel: by sea—both upon and under the sea; by land, by air –by both airplane and airship; and in space. It discusses great circumnavigations of the past by personal characteristics of the circumnavigators. It elucidates past notable circumnavigations by century: 1500s—2000s.
69. The Red Revolution, Russia, 1917: The Revolt that Shook the World. 35
This lively historical presentation covers the Communist Revolution in Russia in 1917, arguably the most costly revolution in lives and money, in world history, and probably the most profound in its world-wide impact on the 20th Century. It discusses the 1848 failed revolutions in Europe that preceded it; its ideological roots; and the economic and social conditions leading to it. It features the February Revolution and the period of dual power between the moderate socialists and the Bolsheviks. It explains the October Revolution and its subsequent Civil War, featuring the leadership and major events of this second revolution in Russia in 1917. It briefly highlights the impact of the revolution on subsequent world events.
70. The Making of Red China: Chinese Civil War and Revolution, 1949. 34
China in the 20th century experienced an epic civil war period that ended 2000 years of dynastic, imperial rule and ushered in the modern era of China and the People’s Republic of China. This presentation covers China’s first revolution, of 1911-1912, and the first Republic, 1912-1927. It explains the civil war between the nationalist forces under Chiang Kai-shek and the communist forces under Mao Zedong. It features the Civil War era of 1927-1937, with a focus on the encirclement campaign and the Long March north. It details the brutality of the Second Sino-Japanese War, 1937-1945. It discusses the immediate post-war clashes in 1945-46; then tall-out war from 1946-1950, ending with the triumph of the communists and establishment of the PRC and world affairs post-1950.
71. The Bushido: Japan’s Code of the Samurai. 35
Like the chivalric codes of medieval Great Britain and France, Japan’s feudal society espoused the Bushido Code—the code of the samurai warrior class. This presentation explores the development of the code and its impact on the feudal society of Japan. It describes the emergence of the daimyo and shogun in Japan, comparing them to Europe’s dukes and kings. It demonstrates how the codes of both Japan and the medieval society of Europe developed excesses in behavior by knights and samurai warriors, distorting their respective codes to extreme militarism.
72. The Meiji Restoration: Japan’s Civil War of Modernization. 32
This lively presentation explains a unique period of Japanese history. For over 700 years Japan’s feudal society was ruled by the dynastic shogun system. In 1853-54, the U.S. fleet of steam-powered warships and the East India squadron, under the command of Commodore Perry, forced Japan to “open up” to Western trade with the Treaty of Kamagawa. This event set off profound changes in Japanese society culminating in the Meiji Restoration and in 1870, a brief civil war. These events ended the samurai class system and began a period of rapid modernization. Within a mere thirty-five years, Japan emerged from a feudal society of swords and bows and arrows, and of horse-powered transportation, to become a modernized, industrial society with an extensive system of steam-powered trains, and a modern and well-equipped army.
73. Astronomy in Ancient Imperial China: Were the Magi from China? 34
In western tradition, art, and the canonical gospel of Matthew, we find the story of the Magi, Three Kings or Wisemen. We are all familiar with this version and vision of the “Christmas Tale” of the Magi. A recently “rediscovered and translated” Syriac manuscript found in the Vatican Library tells an interestingly different version of the Magi story. This presentation discusses the canonical sources and ideas about the three wisemen, and the biblical sources and traditional elaborations on the Story of the Magi. It then discusses the recently re-discovered Syriac manuscript and its version of the tale. It speculates where the land of Shir, the traditional home of the Magi, might have been. It postulates the idea and evidence that Shir might be the Mongolian region of China. It touches on non-canonical sources of some of the ideas about the Magi from the Nag Hammadi library of Coptic, Gnostic sacred writings. It then describes the highly sophisticated level of astronomy in ancient, imperial China. It explains the development and suppression of the Nestorian Church, the earliest Christians in China.
74. Sacred Sites: Holy Places of the Abrahamic Faiths. 30
The three major Abrahamic religions of the world—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—share a monotheistic conception of the Deity, an accepted orthodoxy and holy book—the Torah, the Bible, and the Quo’ran, and many sites that are considered holy places by one or all of these major world religions. This presentation discusses the concept of holy places and how such places come to be considered holy sites in each faith tradition. It looks at examples of the holy places of Judaism, of Christianity, both western and eastern, and of Islam, as well as the holy places of Baha’i. Through text and colorful photographic slides and maps, it explains holy sites of the Abrahamic faiths tradition.
75. Sacred Sites: Holy Places of Mesoamerica. 34
The Americas—South, Central, and North America—were home to numerous native tribes in pre-Columbian times, each of which distinguished certain sites considered sacred or holy places in their religions. This presentation takes a colorful look at Mesoamerican traditions—the Olmec, Inca, Aztec, and Mayan in South and Central America, and native American tribes of North America, like the Sioux, the Cheyenne, the Crow, the Arapaho, and the sites considered sacred to each. It covers their concept of Gods and Godesses, the Creative or Divine Spirit, and the holy places of the Olmec, the Inca, the Aztecs, and the Mayan. It closes with a look at the Black Hills and Devils Tower as representative of North American tribal traditions of holy sites.
76. Sacred Sites: Holy Places of Paganism. 42
There are hundreds of sites around the world that ancient pagan religions deemed holy or sacred places. This presentation discusses the pagan concepts of the deity and of sacred places. It looks at a few really ancient sites from pre-history. It visits the sites and religious ideas of ancient Egypt. It covers the ancient religions of the Indian subcontinent: Buddhism, Shugendo and Shintoism, Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. It visits East Asia to discuss Confucianism and Zoroastrianism. It touches briefly on the Olympian gods and goddesses of Greece and their Roman counterparts, and holy places associated with them.
77. The French Revolution, 1789-1799. 34
The French Revolution was one of the most important and defining events in the history of the western world. This lively presentation explains the French Revolution. It covers its causes and pre-revolution events. It discusses the National Convention Assembly and events precipitating the revolution. It explains the Legislative Assembly of 1791-92 and the failure of an attempt at a constitutional monarchy, the ensuing constitutional crisis, and the war and counter-revolution of 1791-92. It examines the National Convention years of 1795-1799, including the execution of Louis XVI, the economic turmoil leading to the Reign of Terror, the War in Vendee, and the counter-revolution, and the overall excesses of the revolution. It describes the Constitutional Republic period of France, the Directorate, and Napoleon’s rise to power. It discusses the enduring symbols of the revolution and the changing role of women in and as a result of the revolution.
78. The Iron Chancellor: Forging a Nation. 32
One of the events that shaped the modern western world was the unification of Germany into a single nation/empire. Hugely instrumental in forging the modern nation-state of Germany was its first imperial chancellor, Otto Von Bismarck. This historical presentation explains his importance in unifying Germany, and the significance a united Germany made for modern Europe into the 20th Century. It covers the precursor events leading to the wars of unification, especially the failed revolution of 1848. It discusses Bismarck’s rise to power, detailing his early career, his service as president of Prussia, and how those events shaped his goal for the eventual unification of Germany.
79. The Written Bible Through History. 39
The Bible has been called the greatest book in human history. This lively presentation covers the bible from oral tradition to handwritten manuscripts to the printed book form. It discusses the establishment of the canon of both the Old and the New Testament books. It describes the development of writing and the bible, as well as archaeological finds confirming the accuracy of the ancient texts. It discusses bible stories as history and as metaphors and archetypal themes. It explains the problems of translation of the bible from ancient Aramaic to Hebrew to Greek and Latin and to modern languages like English and German. It describes the major printed bibles and their impact on the Reformation, exemplifying the most important printed bibles and their translators.
80. Mesopotamian Mythology. 34
The mythology of the Mesopotamian region is among the oldest known to mankind in ancient (Sumerian) clay tablet writings. Its myth stories of the creation of the universe and of earth and mankind, the great flood (in the Epic of Gilgamesh), of ascent into heaven and descent into the underworld, of salvation and redemption, have shaped and influenced many other mythologies. This lively presentation uses text and color photographic slides to explain the major gods, goddesses, and myth stories of this region, one of the oldest of human civilizations.
81. Zoroastrian Mythology. 31
The prophet Zoroaster of ancient Persia (now Iran) revealed the religious ideas of the gods of good and evil that formed the basis of Zoroastrianism. This presentation covers its major god figures and its stories of the eternal battle between good and evil. Zoroastrian thought infused many of the near-by regions’ mythologies, including much that found its way, in modified form, into the Hebrew Old Testament.
82. Chinese and Japanese Mythology. 37
The two major mythologies of Asia, those of China and Japan, share some common themes and stories. This presentation covers the major (ancestral) gods and goddesses of China and Japan. Its myth stories explain the creation of the universe, and of the earth and animal and human life. It traces their belief in the link of the gods to the first emperors of China and of Japan. It details the “good dragon” stories found in each mythology. It uses text and color photographic slides to offer an interesting and informative view of these two ancient cultures.
83. Mythological Monsters. 35
From sea serpents like the Kraken, and the multi-headed monsters of classical mythology, like the Hydra, Chimera, and Cerberus, to Griffins and Dragons, to sacred birds like the Phoenix, to unicorns and were-creatures (half-man, half-animal that include such beasts as wolves, foxes, bulls, snakes, horses, jaguars, and so on), to vampires and ghosts and demons, this lively presentation covers the major “monsters” of mythology from around the globe. It explains why human cultures across the globe have generated similar monster stories and creatures.
84. The Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Egypt. 35
This presentation examines the major myths of ancient Egypt, including its birth
myths, Egyptian mythology in art, their deities of first time, and of later time, and compares Egyptian mythology to common archetypal stories of humanity, to classical mythology, and to modern mythology depicted in film.
85. Comprehensive Immigration Reform and the Transformative Presidency
of Barack Obama. 41
Comprehensive immigration reform is on the agenda of Congress in 2014.
This presentation discusses the major proposals before Congress, their likelihood of enactment, and their impact on the legacy of the Obama presidency.
86. The End of The Bronze Age: Collapse of Civilizations. 43
Around 1150 BCE the Bronze Age ended. This transition to the Iron Age coincided with the relatively sudden collapse of many of the cultures and empires that had dominated the then known world throughout the Bronze Age. This presentation discusses this sudden collapse of civilizations in the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas regions, and some of the major causes that have been attributed to this collapse.
87. Genealogy 101 42
Are you interested in or have you tried to do your family genealogy but don’t know where to start or how to proceed when you get “stuck”? Immigration historian Mike LeMay offers insights from his own genealogical research to help you get started or to get “unstuck.” Genealogy can be fun, expand your knowledge of geography and history, and present intriguing “mysteries” to be solved. This presentation takes you through the basics: from building a foundation, to sources to use—both internet and governmental documents—to family lore and family associations, approaches to “think outside the box” when you get stuck, and some typical traps to avoid or be aware of or work around.
88. Language Decoded. 36
It is often said that language is what sets humans apart from the other animals. This lively presentation explores language in all its complexity: from spoken and written language, to the major “families” of languages, to forgotten languages and keys to unlocking their meanings, to types of languages as systems of meanings—including tonal and syntax languages. It describes the various ways languages are written. It concludes with a discussion of how language both reflects and influences culture and world views of peoples, of languages as used in traditional and modern societies, and how language and poetry or song were used for remembering complex oral traditions.
89. The Lure of Black Gold. 40
This presentation discusses legal and illegal immigration to Venezuela, drawn by the economic pull of the oil industry. It explains the similarities and differences with illegal immigration to that of the U.S. It covers the policies and laws adopted by the Venezuelan government to cope with illegal immigration.
90. Peopling the Globe. 34
This presentation discusses how modern homo-sapians spread around the world over the past 70,000 years, with an emphasis on the two “Out-of-Africa” migration theories. It covers the various sources of evidence used to support the Out-of-Africa migration theory.
91. Modern Day Piracy. 32
Piracy is defined by international law. This presentation describes its golden age and proceeds to discuss its current resurgence. It covers the when, where, and why piracy is practiced today, focusing on Somalia, Thailand, and Indonesia. It concludes with a discussion of present-day efforts to combat piracy.
92. Sex in Sacred Scriptures 34
This presentation discusses human nature, sex and sacred scriptures as they link to the concept of procreation. It focuses on sex as found in the scriptures of the monotheistic religions: the Torah, the Christian bible, and the Quo’ran. It briefly touches on sex in other sacred scripts.
93. Celtic Mythology. 41
This presentation discusses the mythology of the Celtic peoples, focusing on the myths of Wales and Ireland.
94. Uncovering Ancient History. 45
In ages past super-volcanic explosions covered and buried entire cities and ended prehistoric civilizations. This presentation begins with an explanation of the plate tectonic forces by which super-volcanoes develop. In the recent past, archaeologists have uncovered the sites of some of those ancient civilizations’ cities. The presentation looks at three super-volcanic explosions that covered three ancient cities or decimated virtually all of homo-sapiens then living on the earth. Three cities that have been uncovered are: 1) Akrotiri of ancient Thera, now known as Santorini in the Greek Isles of the S. Aegean Sea; 2) Herculaneum, and 3) Pompeii, near Naples, Italy, situated on the Gulf of Napoli. It discusses how these archaeological digs have shed dramatic new light on how people lived in ancient times—nearly four thousand years ago in the case of Akrotiri. The archaeologists have made some surprising finds regarding the sophistication of their societies, culture, architecture, lifestyles, and technological capabilities.
95. Scandinavian Immigration to America. 35
Immigrants to America from Norway, Sweden, and Denmark comprise what came to be called the Scandinavian immigration flow to the United States. In this presentation, immigration historian Mike LeMay defines Scandinavian immigration, and the push and pull factors that determined that flow (what compelled them to leave and what drew them to America). He highlights the immigration and assimilation patterns of each of the three national-origin groups, and discusses their settlement patterns in the United States and how they influenced American culture, economy, and politics.
96. Early Christianity: 70 A.D. to 450 A.D. 45
This presentation covers the first four centuries of Christianity; its rise and expansion, the development of the canon and orthodoxy, the early Fathers of the Church and the heresies and controversies they dealt with, and the major ecumenical councils of the church to 450 A.D.
97. Archaeology and the Bible. 34
This presentation describes the new field of biblical archaeology. It defines key terms used, covers its founders and leaders in the field, and provides key dates and timelines in the stages of biblical archaeology. It covers some important sites and findings and concludes with a suggested reading list.
98. The Minoans: Global Traders of the Bronze Age? 49
Were the Minoans of the Bronze Age the first world-wide traders? This presentation presents the evidence that 2000 years B.C., and 3,500 years before Columbus, they reached Northern Germany, England, Ireland, Spain, Portugal, Egypt, India, Africa, and North America. It concludes with a discussion of their being the basis for the Atlantis legend.
99. The Hanseatic League: Medieval Common Market? 42
For 300 years, from the 13th to the 17th Centuries, a commercial federation of trade Guilds operated a network in northern Europe, from the North Sea to the Baltic Sea, from England to Russia. This presentation describes the League, its development and its role as a Medieval common market.
100. Comparative Religions [Two Versions, short and longer] 30 OR 45
This presentation looks at the major religions and religious traditions from around the world. It presents a geographic classification of the world’s religions. Using text, map, chart, and photographic slides, it compares their origins and basic statistics, their symbols, and their basic beliefs.
101. When Empires Clash: The Rise and Decline of the Ancient Greek and
Roman Empires. 29
This presentation recounts the rise and fall of the two great empires of the Ancient Mediterranean region. It details their periods of rise, development, expansion, and analyzes the internal divisions leading to their eventual collapse.
102. Big Stick Diplomacy. 27
This presentation discusses the treaties that shaped the diplomacy between Panama and the United States; its precursor events, the treaty establishing Panama and then the first Canal treaty. It covers Panamanian immigration to the U.S. It details the political conflict leading to the second Canal Treaty of 1977. It closes with a look at the supersizing of the Canal in 2015.
103. The Cuban Revolution. 27
This presentation discusses the precursor events leading to the Castro-led Cuban Revolution. It covers the beginnings of the revolution, the course of the war, and the establishment of Communism in Cuba in 1965. It closes with a discussion of its impact.
104. The Industrial Revolution 36
Our modern world has been shaped by the industrial revolution of the 19th Century. This presentation covers its precursor events, and traces the industrial revolution in Great Britain, Western Europe and the U.S. It details the tremendous urbanization resulting from the Industrial Revolution, the expansion of wealth it created, and other impacts.
105. Sacred Writings of the World’s Religions 32
This presentation looks at sacred writings, scriptures and texts of the world’s religions, from Ancient Egypt to the 1830s; from the old world to the new. It covers texts of 20 traditions from A to Z: Ayyavazhi, Baha’i, Buddhism, Christianity, Confuscianism, Egyptian, Etruscan, Gnosticism, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, Judaism, Mayan, Mormon, Ravidassia, Shintoism, Sikhism, Sumerian, Taoism, and Zoroastrianism.
106. Comprehensive Immigration Reform and the Transformative Presidency
of Barack Obama? 43
High on the agenda of President Obama, continuing into the final two years of his second term, is enactment of comprehensive immigration reform of America’s broken system.
To date all attempts to enact immigration reform have been stymied in the deadlocked Congress. This presentation discusses why the system is broken, and why the issue has been stalemated in Congress. It covers the major proposals of such reform up to the 2013 Senate-passed act that failed to get to the floor in the House of Representatives. It links the possibility of comprehensive immigration reform to the concept of a transformative president and closes with an assessment of the evidence for so characterizing President Obama should he manage to achieve an agreement with the Republican-controlled U.S. Congress during his final two years in office.
