In mid-February of 2008, my good friend Michael was talking about how he’d like to do a “This Day in History” type of website, but didn’t really feel he had time to do all the writing required. As a person who really enjoys reading about World War II, I took it as my chance to maybe write a few things, too. So I told him if he wanted a little help…to which he kindly said “Sure!” On March 1, 2008, Today’s History Lesson was born.
Life caught up with Michael, so while we still talk a lot, he no longer contributes. But his influence lives on. The site was originally conceived as a “90% History, 10% humor” site, and I think I maintain that to some degree. I write a lot about World War II (it’s what I know best), but I also am cultivating a budding interest in the American Revolution and the Civil War. So the 90% History is probably 70% World War II, 15% American Revolution, and 15% Everything Else.
A great many history sites have current events and politics as part of their fodder. I have steadfastly avoided it. Maybe that’s hurt viewership, but I don’t know. I might discuss those things as they relate to the “Lesson”, but I try to inject my own opinions only rarely.
This site is dedicated to History.
As for me, I’m a Software Engineer by trade and, if you’re a faithful reader (or if you’re reading this), you’ve figured out that I live in Central Iowa, USA. I’ve never published anything, but I’ve always had a keen interest in writing. Today’s History Lesson is as much a “proof of concept”…a way to determine if I can write anything readable…as it is a creative outlet.
I appreciate comments. If I get my facts messed up, I really want to be corrected (and thanks to those of you that do just that).
Thanks to Michael for the canvas and the opportunity. Thanks to God for whatever ability I have. And Thanks to all of you for reading!
Regards,
Joel
