History Schmistory: When In Rome

“When in Rome do as the Romans do” is a commonly used idiom. An example of its use in a conversation would go something like this:

Person #1: “I refuse to try that sushi!”
Person #2: “C’mon, try it! When in Rome do as the Romans do.” which means, when in a new place behave like they do.

We may understand the meaning of the saying but do we know the origin of it? Well, it all started back in the 16th century when Saint Ambrose, bishop of Milan gave some good advice to Saint Augustine, Bishop of Hippo. Saint Augustine had asked Saint Ambrose if they should fast on Saturdays, like the Romans did. Ambrose replied by saying, “When I am here, I do not fast on Saturday; when I am in Rome, I fast on Saturday.” Of course he said this in Latin but that’s beside the point. Eventually this turned into the phrase that we know today. So when in Rome, fare come i romani!

History Schmistory, June 24: Dance Dance Revolution!

1374 – A sudden outbreak of St. John’s Dance caused people in the streets of Aachen, Germany, to experience hallucinations and begin to jump and twitch uncontrollably until they collapse from exhaustion.This phenomena, know as “Dancing Mania” spread throughout Europe over the next few decades.

And still continues to effect “victims” all over the world today…

 

 

All The Countries of the World!

Check out our brand-spankin’-new video featuring EVERY COUNTRY on the PLANET!!

Da Vinci Birthday Week Continues!

New Video! Get up close and personal with Mr. Da Vinci himself!

History Schmistory, April 15: Kid Born in Vinci

1452. Leonardo Da Vinci born out of wedlock in Vinci, Italy. Because he is illegitimate, he will need to find a trade, instead of becoming a government worker like his father.

Leonardo Da Vinci Birthday Bash Begins

On April 15, 2014, the world’s greatest painter and scientist turns 562!  Celebrate every day with the Renaissance Man!

Find the Eggs!

The History of the Easter Bunny in America. Can you find the eggs? Count ’em, post a comment, and forward to a friend! We’ll post a clue every day till Easter!

Happy April Fools’ Day!

Marco goes out for a walk on April Fool’s Day. Bad idea…

April Fools Prank on Marco Polo!

A mean guy steals Marco’s wig for April Fool’s Day.

April Fool’s Week on Team Marco Polo

Who would prank Marco Polo?

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