| July 14, 2002 |
History of Jim Crow
This  site is targeted at educators, but its wealth of detail will open everyone's eyes to a shameful period in American history. First-person narratives delve deep into the story of African-American segregation and disenfranchisement. The history section takes you from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. Essays discuss everything from Jackie Robinson's 1946 spring training to racial etiquette of the times. Read about the laws passed to keep blacks separate and unequal. There's even an in-depth look at how the term Jim Crow originated. Historical images, maps, simulations, web sites reviews, and an encyclopedia all help illustrate the struggle towards equality. (in U.S. History) |
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| July 13, 2002 |
Popular Baby Names
The  bard said it best when he posed the question that plagues every expectant parent: What's in a name? Quite a bit, judging by the creativity (or lack thereof) displayed by American moms and dads. This site, from the Social Security Administration, isn't the cutest site on the block, but you'll find it's a great way to waste some time. Hit Ctrl+F, then type in a name and see where it ranks. Want to know the top 1000 names of the 1920s? They're here, along with name data for every decade from 1900 to the present. You'll also find a year-by-year breakdown of baby names from 1996 to 2001. So what was the most popular moniker in 2001? It wasn't Destiny, Princess, or even Unique, though they all cracked the top 1000. Take a fascinating look at the ever-changing world of identity. (in Parenting) |
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| July 12, 2002 |
Soapboxgirls
As  the name suggests, Soapboxgirls lets fly with opinions and real-life stories of women's experiences. The current issue's theme is sex, and it features articles on a lesbian avenger who likes men and the past and future of pro-sex feminism. Previous issues examined topics such as inspiration, porn, health, and giving. Some issues include reviews of books, magazines, and other products, while others showcase fiction and poetry. This site may not be for everyone, but if it's read with a little tolerance and a sense of humor, the incredibly diverse perspectives presented here are sure to be appreciated. Should you want to express your own opinion, you can get up on the soapbox yourself. (in Society & Culture) |
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| July 11, 2002 |
Best of History Websites
Curious  about Ice Age art? Want to see pictures of the Bayeux Tapestry? Interested in early U.S. imperialism? Wondering what life was like during the European Renaissance? You can find all this and much more in the 700-plus sites carefully reviewed in this portal for students, teachers, and history buffs of all ages. Teachers can even plan lessons with help from the site. While concentrating mostly on European and U.S. history, the site also does a thorough job of covering everything from prehistory to art history, as well as presenting an outstanding section on maps. Browsing this site is like peeking through a wide window to the past. (in History) |
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| July 10, 2002 |
The Hostess Page
Did  you know that in addition to fighting evil villains and criminals, superheroes also have an affinity for sugary cakes and pies? Seanbaby, the man behind a true hub of humor, has compiled scans of our finest comic-book heroes shilling in Hostess ads from the '70s. See Aquaman introduced to the wonders of Twinkies, watch Captain America save the planet with the help of Fruit Pies, and witness Wonder Woman defeating The Cheetah with her canny use of Cup Cakes. We recommend starting with the examples that feature hilarious commentary provided by Seanbaby and friends. With over 200 illustrations of mighty do-gooders harnessing the power of sugar to defeat evil, the site is a rich, cream-filled trove of campy humor. (in Comics and Animation > Superheroes) |
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| July 9, 2002 |
Going Bridal
Every  year, millions of idealistic men and women pledge the rest of their lives to each other during beautiful and lavish ceremonies. The planning of a large wedding is a notoriously stressful endeavor, and Sara, the author of this unique wedding web log, provides a blow-by-blow illustration of the drama behind pending nuptials. Scheduled for May 3, 2003, Sara's wedding boasts a considerable cast of characters. The bride-to-be seems to have things under control, from the sewing (which warrants its own journal) to the ceremony to this frequently updated site. If you would like to share your own stories of bridal insanity, step into the Bridezilla Confession Booth and tell your tales of seating chart woes, hideous bridemaids' dresses, and high-maintenance great aunts. (in Blogs) |
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| July 8, 2002 |
BeaterZ.com
You  see them rollin' down the road, posing with pride in the parking garage, and waiting longingly in the used-car lot. Commonly known as "beaters," these mobile eyesores are chronicled on this tongue-in-cheek site. Thoughtfully classified by type and augmented by humorous commentary and high-quality photos, the site offers prime examples of what rust, dented fenders, mangled modifications, and awful accessories can do to a once-proud hoopty. We thoroughly enjoyed perusing prime beaters, including the woeful Mustang of Dezire, the sadly hilarious Mega Pipe, and the astonishingly dismal Caffeine Cougar. Get off your tailpipe and visit this tribute to atrocious autos. (in Car Humor) |
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