Johannes Brahms: The Classical Romantic

Johannes Brahms: The Classical Romantic
by eddiego65

German composer and pianist Johannes Brahms (1833-1897) was one of the foremost figures in the Romantic music scene in 19th century Vienna, where he spent much of his professional life.

During his lifetime, Brahms’ fame and influence were so extensive that he is at times grouped with Johann Sebastian Bach and Ludwig van Beethoven as one of the Three Bs.  Although Brahms was a rather conservative and academic composer, his music was of superb quality and intense emotional depth.

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Copyright ©2010 Michele Cameron Drew. All rights reserved.

Political Sex Scandals in History

by eddiego65

People often look up to politicians who are supposed to lead by example. So it is definitely disappointing to see them commit indiscretions that jeopardize their careers and create embarrassment not only for themselves but also for their country and families as well. Here are some notable political sex scandals in history.

Bill Clinton (1946 - )

President of the United States (1993 - 2001)

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News of Clinton's extramarital affair with 22-year-old White House intern Monica Lewinsky broke out in January 1998, what became known as the Lewinsky Scandal. After issuing numerous strong denials, Clinton eventually admitted having "improper physical relationship" with Lewinsky during his testimony in Paula Jones' sexual harassment lawsuit in August 2008, when key evidences surfaced, particularly blue dress stained with his semen. Clinton was consequently impeached for charges of obstruction of justice and perjury by the House of Representatives in December 1998; however, he would be acquitted by the Senate the following year.

John Profumo (1915 - 2006)

British Politician

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Profumo, the Secretary of State for War under Harold Macmillan's administration, was unfortunately best known for his involvement in the Profumo Affair in 1963. At the very height of the Cold War, he was accused of putting national security at risk by his short-lived affair with Christine Keeler, a showgirl who was also having a relationship with Soviet naval attaché Eugene Ivanov. The scandal led to his resignation and withdrawal from politics following his admission of having misled the Commons when questioned about his friendship with Keeler.

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Warrior Women

Women who have proven their ability to serve in the military from different periods of history.

by eddiego65

Women have often been labeled as the "weaker sex," particularly in patriarchal societies where women do not enjoy the same rights as men. Though their participation in the male-dominated world of the military had been controversial throughout history, there were many who have proven themselves to be just as capable as their male counterparts. Listed as follows are but ten of the many military women from different times and places in history:

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1. Joan of Arc

   
   Known as the "Maid of Orleans," she was granted the command of the French army in 1429 at a tender age of only 16 or17 by the Dauphin of France (the future Charles VII) during the Hundred Years' War. She was sent to Siege of Orleans, where she captured all the English fortifications in just 9 days. Her victories in Jargeau, Meung-sur-Loire, Beaugency and Patay helped regained almost every English possession in France.




2. Septima Zenobia

   
   She possessed exceptional beauty and was well educated, able to speak Latin, Greek, Syriac and Coptic. Upon claiming the throne of the Palmyrene Empire (present day Syria) (3rd century A.D.) upon the death of her husband Septimus Odenathus, she led armies in defeating the Romans, who weren't too thrilled on having women ruling their vast territories. She also conquered parts of Egypt and Asia Minor, but was ultimate betrayed by the new emperor Aurelian due to gender prejudice.










3. Ahhotep I (1560-1530 B.C.)

   She acted as regent when her young son Ahmose I ascended the throne of Egypt. She personally trained, equipped and rallied her troops in defeating the Hyksos invaders; and united Upper and Lower Egypt under one rule. This warrior queen, whose military exploits were recounted on a stone monument in the temple of Amun-Re, was found buried with three "golden fly" medals symbolizing her heroic courage in battle.
   
   



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