Cleopatra | Gunsmoke and Knitting

Posts Tagged ‘Cleopatra’

What battle am I talking about today?

July 31, 2012

This is the Pharos Lighthouse at Alexandria, site of the Battle of Alexandria on July 31, 30 BC. Founded by Alexander the Great in 332 BC, Alexandria was one of the greatest cities in the world under European influence for over 300 years. The battle, which pitted the forces of Octavian against those of Mark Antony, marked the end of Rome as a republic and the beginning of the empire. Mark Antony’s defeat at the battle let to his suicide, as well as that of Cleopatra. Alexandria’s fortunes ebbed and flowed over the centuries under the rule of Europeans, Arabs and the Ottoman Empire at various times. Modern Alexandria is a prosperous seaport and industrial center.

Ancient Alexandria

Modern Alexandria

Don’t get me started about the Library at Alexandria – you know how I get.

References:

Science & Society

Cambridge Ancient History

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Alexander the Great, Alexandria, Cleopatra, Egypt, history, Mark Antony, Octavian, Ottoman Empire, Pharos Lighthouse, Roman Empire | Leave a Comment »

Whose birthday am I celebrating today?

July 29, 2012

Silent screen star, Theda Bara. Born Theodosia Burr Goodman in Cincinnati, Ohio, on July 29, 1885. She grew up in that city and attended the University of Cincinnati for two years before traveling west. She was one of Hollywood’s first sex symbols. Here is a lovely tribute to this star that shows some of her exotic costumes, which contributed to her reputation as a femme fatale. I wish I has the chutzpah to wear snakes like that.