World War I

During World War I, up to 20,000 dogs served on the front lines, with a special group of 'mercy dogs' tasked with finding wounded soldiers. These expertly trained canines, often carrying first-aid supplies, navigated treacherous battlefields to locate and assist injured troops, providing a vital lifeline and comfort in the darkest hours.

In 1911, the Louvre's Mona Lisa vanished, sparking global intrigue. Initially an overlooked artwork, its theft catapulted it to unprecedented fame. Accusations flew from American collectors to Kaiser Wilhelm, but an Italian handyman, Vincenzo Perugia, was the culprit. His patriotic motive and the painting's subsequent notoriety cemented its iconic status.

A chemist's accidental sweet taste in 1879 sparked a food revolution. Constantin Fahlberg discovered saccharin, the world's first artificial sweetener. This low-cost sugar substitute became vital during wartime shortages. Saccharin's discovery opened doors for artificial sweetness, transforming food production and flavor design. It remains a significant milestone in food history.

Taiwan, a flashpoint in US-China rivalry, is increasingly central to global tensions. President Xi Jinping's "Thucydides Trap" warning highlights the risk of conflict as China rises. The island's strategic importance in semiconductors and trade, coupled with historical crises, underscores the escalating danger of miscalculation.

As the Cannes Film Festival kicks off, 22 films vie for the coveted Palme d'Or, featuring masterpieces from acclaimed directors. However, the reduced presence of women filmmakers has stirred debate, leading critics to label the event as engaging in 'feminism washing.' Nonetheless, this year’s selection remains a vibrant mix of global stories and perspectives.

And that’s the trap that ‘Philosopher King’ Xi Jinping wants to avoid when coming up against Don Tzu, but who is Thucydides anyway? What trap did he lay? And will the US and China go to war?

Nature's creatures often display unparalleled loyalty, surpassing human examples. From Chetak's battlefield sacrifice for Maharana Pratap to Hachiko's decade-long vigil at a train station, these animals exemplify devotion. Elephants mourned their rescuer, wolves died of grief, and a pigeon braved gunfire to save soldiers, proving their profound bonds.

A simple lab accident in 1903 led to a major safety breakthrough. French chemist Edouard Benedictus discovered how a special liquid kept a broken flask intact. This led to the invention of laminated glass. Initially expensive, it later became crucial for gas masks and then car windshields. This innovation significantly reduced severe injuries from flying glass in vehicles.

The spy action thriller 'Mr. X', starring Arya and Manju Warrier, opened to a modest Rs 65 lakhs India net on its first day. The film released on April 17, 2026. Early reports indicate a total India gross of Rs 75 lakhs. The Tamil version contributed Rs 60 lakhs net, while the Telugu version added Rs 5 lakhs net.

Rudyard Kipling, a prominent author of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, gained fame for his vivid portrayals of the British Empire, particularly India. His impactful works like "The Jungle Book" and "Kim," alongside his Nobel Prize win, highlight his literary genius. Despite his celebrated career, Kipling's imperialist views and personal tragedies shaped his complex legacy.

Wilfred Owen, a pivotal early 20th-century English poet, revolutionized war poetry with his stark, emotional depictions of World War I's brutal realities. Despite a short life, his powerful verses, influenced by his wartime experiences and Siegfried Sassoon, exposed the true cost of conflict, challenging patriotic ideals. His honest portrayal of soldiers' suffering continues to resonate globally.

C.S. Lewis, a renowned 20th-century writer, shaped literature and theology. Born in Ireland, his life journey included loss, intellectual growth, and a profound return to Christianity. His clear, engaging style made complex ideas accessible. Lewis authored influential Christian apologetics and the beloved fantasy series 'The Chronicles of Narnia'. His impactful radio talks and personal life also left a lasting mark.

Henry James, a master of psychological realism, explored the intricacies of human consciousness and the "international theme" in his novels. His complex style and focus on interiority influenced modernist writers. A profound quote emphasizes kindness as a fundamental, unwavering principle for navigating life's complexities and fostering connection.

Ernest Hemingway, a literary giant of the 20th century, profoundly shaped modern literature with his distinct style and impactful life experiences. From his early days in Oak Park to his wartime service and subsequent fame, his writings, like 'The Sun Also Rises,' explored themes of disillusionment and resilience. Hemingway's 'Iceberg Theory' emphasized clarity and depth, influencing countless writers.

Low-tech Iranian mines and drones are paralyzing commercial traffic in the Gulf, challenging the US Navy's dominance. This echoes WWI's Battle of Gallipoli, where mines hobbled Britain's mighty fleet. Iran's asymmetric tactics threaten global supply chains and could impact US elections.

J.R.R. Tolkien, hailed as the father of modern high fantasy, crafted immersive worlds like Middle-earth, deeply influenced by his linguistic passion and WWI experiences. His iconic works, "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings," explore themes of courage and sacrifice. Tolkien's legacy extends beyond literature, shaping pop culture and inspiring countless creators.

T. S. Eliot, a towering 20th-century literary figure, profoundly shaped modern poetry and criticism. His journey from American roots to British citizenship, marked by intellectual pursuits and personal struggles, fueled groundbreaking works like 'The Waste Land.' Eliot's experimental style and exploration of alienation and spirituality continue to resonate, making him an enduring influence.

Agatha Christie, the celebrated 'Queen of Crime', explored human nature deeply. Her autobiography reveals profound insights into identity. A quote from her work suggests that as life unfolds, people tire of maintaining invented characters. They eventually return to their true selves, finding liberation in authenticity. This journey of self-discovery is a key theme.

World War I love letters reveal a profound romance lost to modern dating. Soldiers penned heartfelt messages, their words crossing oceans with deep longing and hope. These handwritten testaments to enduring love, even amidst war, contrast sharply with today's fleeting digital interactions, urging a re-evaluation of what true romance means.

Unesco has added World War I funerary and memorial locations across the Western Front to its list of World Heritage sites. The sites, spanning from Belgium to eastern France, were deemed of "outstanding value to humanity" and deserving of special protection. The addition of these sites aims to encourage reflection and admiration for world culture. France's defense ministry hailed the decision as a recognition of the exceptional universal value and a counter to the inhumanity of war.

The UK government on Thursday announced plans for a series of statues to go up at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) here to honour the sacrifices made by over 3 million Commonwealth soldiers, sailors, airmen and labour corps who served in World War I, including from India.

The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society has discovered the wreckage of the Huronton, a steel bulk freighter that sank in Lake Superior after being hit by another ship in 1923. The collision resulted in a temporary fusion of the two vessels, allowing the crew of the Huronton to transfer safely. The wreckage was found at a depth of around 800 feet using sonar technology.

that I feel so strongly about.I wanted to do more to honour.

With the MG Road turning into a political flash point frequently these days, the renovation work of the Palayam World War I memorial has come to a grinding halt.