Harvey Milk (1930-78) was the first openly homosexual candidate to be elected to San Francisco’s Board of Supervisors.
An advocate of gay rights and urban issues, Milk was elected in 1977, representing the Castro district.
He was assassinated, with Mayor George Moscone, by a former supervisor on November 27, 1978.
For late 19th-century immigrants from Europe, to travel to America in “steerage” meant a passage below decks, near the ship’s steering gear. The price for these uncomfortable but low-fare accommodations was about $15.
This first great Chinese empire the Chin dynasty ran from about 221 to 206 B.C. It established the approximate boundaries and governmental system of China for the next 2,000 years, and gave its name to the nation. The effects of the dynasty lasted until the 1911 revolution, which overthrew the empire and created a republic.
In a 1992 Gallup Poll, 14 percent of Americans said they hated liver the most. Tied for second place in the worst foods list were spinach, fish, and seafood, each at 6 percent.
Filene’s Automatic Bargain Basement opened in the Boston flagship store Filene’s Basemen in 1909. It followed the first example of bargain basements, the “Bargain Room” at Wanamaker’s in Philadelphia.
Formally known as the “United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing,” the Shakers sect got its name from the involuntary trembling of its members during moments of religious ecstasy. Founded in England by Mother Ann Lee, the Shakers came to America in 1774. Lee’s followers practiced celibacy, communal ownership, and sacred dancing. By the…
The “Thunderer of Waters” is the Indian name for Niagara Falls, New York.