One of the most travelled presidential candidates in U.S. history was Harry S. Truman during his 1948 whistle-stop campaign. Truman travelled an impressive 31,000 miles across the United States, giving 352 speeches in various cities and towns, many of which were small and previously unheard of in presidential campaigning. His tour, mostly by train, helped energise his underdog campaign and ultimately contributed to his surprising victory over Governor Thomas E. Dewey. Truman’s direct interaction with rural voters, where he often spoke from the rear platform of his train, became legendary for its personal touch and effectiveness.

Mexico lost a significant portion of its territory to the United States after the Mexican-American War (1846-1848) with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo on February 2, 1848. This treaty ended the war and resulted in Mexico ceding about 55% of its territory to the U.S., which included present-day California, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, and parts of Colorado, Wyoming, and Texas.

 Key Points:

1. Mexican Cession (1848): In the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, Mexico agreed to cede approximately 525,000 square miles of land to the U.S. in exchange for $15 million and the U.S. assumption of around $3.25 million in claims by American citizens against Mexico.

  2. Texas Annexation (1845): Before the war, the U.S. had already annexed Texas in 1845, which triggered the conflict. Texas had declared independence from Mexico in 1836 but was not officially recognised by Mexico, which led to tensions.

3. Gadsden Purchase (1853): Five years later, in 1853, the U.S. acquired an additional 29,670 square miles of land (in present-day southern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico) for $10 million through the Gadsden Purchase, which completed the current U.S.-Mexico border.

"He said what?"

One of the most infamous "hot mic" moments during a U.S. presidential campaign occurred in 2012 when then-President Barack Obama was caught on a hot mic during a conversation with then-Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. The incident happened at a nuclear security summit in Seoul, South Korea.

The Comment:

Obama was heard saying to Medvedev, "This is my last election. After my election, I have more flexibility." Medvedev responded, "I understand. I will transmit this information to Vladimir." The "Vladimir" in question was Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Context and Reaction:
The comment was made about negotiations about missile defence systems between the U.S. and Russia. Obama was signalling that he would be better positioned to negotiate after the 2012 election when re-election concerns would no longer constrain him.

The 'hot mic' moment sparked a firestorm of controversy, particularly among Republicans. They accused Obama of signalling to Russia that he would make concessions after the election. This incident became a heated talking point in the 2012 campaign, with critics arguing that it revealed a potential weakness in foreign policy.

Legacy:

The comment is often remembered as one of the most significant hot mic moments in U.S. presidential politics, raising questions about diplomatic transparency and the influence of electoral politics on international negotiations.

The Debate on Imperialism in 1898 was a major turning point in American foreign policy, triggered by the U.S. victory in the Spanish-American War and the subsequent acquisition of overseas territories such as the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico. This debate revolved around whether the U.S. should pursue a policy of imperial expansion or adhere to its historical principles of self-determination and non-intervention.

The Spanish-American War in 1898 resulted in a quick victory for the United States, and the Treaty of Paris formally ended the conflict. The treaty ceded control of several territories, including the Philippines, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Guam, to the U.S. This raised fundamental questions about America's role in the world and whether it should become a colonial power like European nations.

 Participants:

Against Imperialism:

1. William Jennings Bryan:

   - Position: Leader of the Democratic Party and a staunch advocate of anti-imperialism.

   - Arguments: Bryan believed imperialism fundamentally opposed American democratic values. He argued that the U.S. should not impose its will on other nations and that all people have the right to self-governance. He feared that controlling overseas territories would lead to costly entanglements in foreign wars and erode American democracy at home.

   - Key Quote: “It is not necessary to own people to trade with them.”

2. Mark Twain:

   - Position: Famous author and vice president of the Anti-Imperialist League, Twain became one of the most vocal critics of American imperialism.

   - Arguments: Twain was deeply disturbed by what he saw as a betrayal of American ideals. He criticised the U.S. for acting like the European colonial powers it had historically opposed. Twain's critiques were often biting and sarcastic, attacking the moral justifications of imperialists.

   - Key Quote: “I have seen that we do not intend to free, but to subjugate the people of the Philippines. We have gone there to conquer, not to redeem.”

3. Andrew Carnegie:

   - Position: Industrialist and philanthropist who used his influence to speak against imperialism.

   - Arguments: Carnegie staunchly advocated for global peace and believed imperialism would lead to costly and unnecessary wars. He even offered to pay the U.S. government $20 million, the amount agreed upon in the Treaty of Paris to purchase the Philippines, if the U.S. would let the Filipino people govern themselves. Carnegie viewed imperialism as detrimental to both the U.S. and the territories it sought to control.

# Pro-Imperialism:

1. Henry Cabot Lodge:

   - Position: A leading Republican senator and strong advocate for imperialism.

   - Arguments: Lodge believed that expanding U.S. territory was a natural consequence of America's growing power and influence. He saw imperialism as a way for the U.S. to secure its position in the world and compete with European empires. Lodge argued that acquiring new territories would open up economic opportunities for American businesses and strengthen the nation’s global influence.

   - Key Quote: “Commerce follows the flag.”

2. Theodore Roosevelt:

   - Position: Then-Governor of New York and former leader of the Rough Riders, Roosevelt was a passionate advocate for American expansionism.

   - Arguments: Roosevelt supported the idea that it was America's duty to "civilise" and uplift the peoples of the new territories. He believed that imperialism was not only beneficial for the U.S. but also a moral obligation to spread American values, governance, and economic systems. He famously argued that the U.S. should not shy away from global responsibilities and that imperialism was the natural result of America’s rise as a world power.

   - Key Quote: “We cannot avoid the responsibilities that confront us in Hawaii, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines.”

 Key Themes of the Debate:

1. Moral and Ethical Arguments:

   - Anti-imperialists like Bryan, Twain, and Carnegie argued that imperialism was inconsistent with American values of freedom, self-governance, and democracy. They believed that subjugating other nations was a betrayal of the principles the U.S. was founded upon.

   - Pro-imperialists like Lodge and Roosevelt countered by framing imperialism as a benevolent act. They argued that the U.S. was not exploiting these territories but helping to civilise and modernise them.

2. Economic Interests:

   - Proponents of imperialism saw the acquisition of territories as an opportunity to expand markets for American goods and resources. They believed that controlling strategic locations like the Philippines would boost U.S. economic power.

   - Opponents feared that these territories would be expensive to maintain and would entangle the U.S. in costly conflicts.

3. Racial and Cultural Justifications:

   - Imperialists often used racist and paternalistic justifications, claiming that non-Western peoples were incapable of self-governance and needed American guidance. This "white man's burden" mentality was popular among many advocates of expansion.

   - Anti-imperialists condemned these ideas, arguing that all people, regardless of race or culture, had the right to self-determination.

4. National Security and Geopolitical Strategy:

   - Pro-imperialists argued that controlling overseas territories would enhance U.S. military and strategic power. The Philippines, in particular, was seen as a gateway to Asia and a critical point for projecting American influence.

   - Anti-imperialists warned that acquiring new territories would drag the U.S. into international conflicts and force the country into a role as a global policeman.

 Outcome of the Debate:

Despite the strong opposition from anti-imperialists, the pro-imperialist side prevailed, and the Treaty of Paris was ratified in 1899, officially making the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico U.S. territories. The U.S. maintained control over these territories for decades, and the debate left a lasting legacy on American foreign policy. The anti-imperialist movement, although unable to stop the expansion, influenced future debates on America's role in the world and its foreign interventions.

 Legacy:

The debate over imperialism in 1898 set the stage for the U.S.'s evolving role as a global power. It also highlighted tensions between American ideals of liberty and democracy and the realities of power politics and economic interests. Many of the arguments from this debate re-emerged in later foreign policy discussions, particularly during the Cold War and more recent interventions.

As of 2023-2024, the viewership numbers for "Meet the Press" and "Face the Nation" show these programs remain among the most-watched Sunday political talk shows:

- "Meet the Press" on NBC averaged around 2.6 million viewers in early 2024, with roughly 500,000 viewers in the key demographic of adults aged 25-54.

- "Face the Nation" on CBS saw an average viewership of 3.3 million, with 693,000 viewers in the 25-54 age demographic.

Both programs continue to attract significant audiences, although "Face the Nation" tends to lead in total viewership, while “Meet the Press" often performs well in the 25-54 demographic.

Paul Héroult (1863–1914) was a renowned French engineer and inventor. He is best known for his groundbreaking contributions to aluminium production and steelmaking through the invention of the Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) method.

The first Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) was built in La Praz, France, in 1900 by Paul Héroult, the French engineer who invented the process. The furnace was designed to melt steel using an electric arc rather than traditional fuel methods like coal or coke. 

Héroult's innovation allowed for efficient steel production from scrap or raw materials using electric power, which was becoming more accessible due to advances in electricity generation. This development began a new era in steelmaking that would eventually lead to the widespread adoption of EAFs in steel production, especially for recycling steel scrap.

The Electric Arc Furnace method gained significant traction during the 20th century and is now a cornerstone of modern steel production due to its energy efficiency and ability to recycle materials. 

Early Life and Education:

- Birth: Paul Héroult was born on April 10, 1863, in Thury-Harcourt, France.

- Education: He studied at the École des Mines in Paris, where his interest in metallurgy and engineering began to develop.

Key Inventions and Contributions:

1. The Hall-Héroult Process for Aluminum Production (1886)

   In 1886, at age 23, Paul Héroult, independently but simultaneously with American engineer Charles Martin Hall, developed the Hall-Héroult process. This electrolytic process allowed for the mass production of aluminium from alumina (aluminium oxide) using an electric current.

   - Significance: The Hall-Héroult process dramatically lowered the cost of aluminium production, making aluminium widely available and revolutionising industries like aviation, transportation, and packaging. This method is still used today to produce most of the world's aluminium.

 2. The invention of the Electric Arc Furnace (1900)

   - In 1900, Héroult invented the Electric Arc Furnace (EAF), which uses electric arcs to melt scrap steel or directly reduce iron. The furnace provides a cleaner and more efficient way to produce steel by recycling scrap metal or using iron ore without coke.

   - Significance: The EAF method became instrumental in modern steel production, particularly for recycling steel. It remains a crucial technology for sustainable steelmaking.

Career and Legacy:

- Career: Héroult became prominent in the industrial and scientific community after his inventions. His work with electric furnaces also influenced other sectors, and his insights into using electric energy for metal extraction and refining positioned him as a leader in metallurgical innovation.

- Death: Héroult died on May 9, 1914, but his legacy continues through the widespread use of the processes he helped create.

"Levels of the Game" by John McPhee is an exceptional blend of sports journalism and literary non-fiction. Published in 1969, the book focuses on a single tennis match between Arthur Ashe and Clark Graebner during the 1968 U.S. Open, but McPhee uses this match as a lens through which to explore broader themes of race, class, and personality.

McPhee's narrative is more than just a blow-by-blow account of a tennis match. He skillfully interweaves the players' biographies, backgrounds, and psychological makeups, giving the reader a sense of who Ashe and Graebner are both on and off the court. McPhee uses the contrasting styles of the two players—Ashe's strategic, often improvisational play versus Graebner's more mechanical and methodical approach—as metaphors for the larger societal differences between them. The narrative structure deftly shifts between the on-court action and insightful explorations of the players' lives, offering a deep character study wrapped in the guise of a sports report.

One of the book's most profound accomplishments is how McPhee subtly yet powerfully addresses issues of race and class. As one of the first prominent African American tennis players, Arthur Ashe represents both the pressures and triumphs of breaking racial barriers in a traditionally white, upper-class sport. McPhee contrasts this with Clark Graebner, a white, middle-class player who, though highly skilled, does not carry the same sociopolitical weight as Ashe. The racial and cultural tensions of the 1960s are not overtly addressed but are ever-present, shaping the narrative and adding layers of meaning to the match itself.

McPhee masterfully develops both Ashe and Graebner as characters, making them real, multi-dimensional individuals. Ashe is depicted as thoughtful, reflective, and intensely aware of his role as a trailblazer. Graebner, on the other hand, is portrayed as a more straightforward, conventional player whose life and career follow a more predictable trajectory. McPhee does not judge either man; instead, he allows their personalities to emerge naturally from the narrative, giving readers a nuanced portrait of two athletes at the height of their careers.

The game of tennis itself serves as a metaphor for life, competition, and the nature of success. McPhee’s writing, rich with detail and nuance, elevates the tennis match to something more—an exploration of discipline, freedom, instinct, and calculation. The match becomes a stage for these deeper themes to play out, making the book accessible to tennis fans and readers who may have little interest in the sport but are drawn to the human drama.

Some readers might find McPhee's focus on minute details of the match tedious, especially those who need to become more familiar with tennis. The balance between action and analysis can sometimes feel uneven, with the match's pace interrupted by lengthy biographical asides. However, these asides make the book unique, elevating it from a simple sports story to a deeper exploration of human character.

The United States has immigration quotas as part of its broader immigration system. These quotas primarily apply to permanent immigration, which allows people to become lawful permanent residents (green card holders). The quotas are based on various categories, including family-based immigration, employment-based immigration, and diversity visas. Here’s a breakdown of how these quotas work:

 1. Family-Based Immigration

   - Family-based immigration allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor certain relatives for green cards. There are numerical limits for most categories of family-sponsored immigrants, except for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, parents, and unmarried children under 21), who are not subject to quotas.

   - The U.S. sets annual limits based on the family preference categories for other family categories (such as adult children and siblings of U.S. citizens). For instance, approximately 226,000 visas are allocated for family-preference immigrants each year.

 2. Employment-Based Immigration

   - The U.S. sets an annual quota for employment-based green cards, which is 140,000 annually. These visas are divided into several categories based on the applicant's type of employment, skills, and qualifications. For example, EB-1 visas are for individuals with extraordinary abilities, while EB-2 and EB-3 visas are for professionals with advanced degrees or workers in specialised fields.

   - These categories are subject to per-country limits, meaning only some countries can receive up to 7% of the total green cards issued each year in these categories.

 3. Diversity Visa Lottery

   - The Diversity Immigrant Visa Program allocates 55,000 visas annually to individuals from countries with historically low immigration levels to the U.S. Applicants are selected through a lottery system, and winners are allowed to apply for green cards.

 4. Refugee and Asylum Programs

   - The U.S. has a separate system for refugees and asylum seekers, and the president sets an annual cap for the number of refugees allowed into the country. For instance, the refugee admissions ceiling for Fiscal Year 2023 was set at 125,000. Asylum seekers who apply for protection from within the U.S. or at the border are not subject to numerical limits.

 5. Per-Country Limits

   - The U.S. imposes per-country caps on how many green cards can be issued yearly to individuals from any country. These limits apply to family-sponsored and employment-based immigrants, and up to 7% of the total green cards can be allocated to any country.

 6. Annual Caps and Backlogs

   The quotas result in long backlogs for applicants from countries with high demand, such as Mexico, India, China, and the Philippines. Due to the combination of annual limits and per-country caps, applicants from these countries often face years or even decades of waiting.

William D. Moseley was the first governor of the state of Florida, serving from 1845 to 1849. Here's a brief overview of his life and political career:

Early Life and Education

- William Dunn Moseley was born on February 1, 1795, in Lenoir County, North Carolina.

- Moseley attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he graduated in 1818. He studied law and was admitted to the bar, practising law in North Carolina before entering politics.

Before moving to Florida, Moseley had a political career in North Carolina, where he served in the North Carolina House of Commons from 1829 to 1837. He was also a member of the North Carolina State Senate from 1835 to 1837 and served as its Speaker.

Moseley moved to Florida in 1835, when it was still a U.S. territory, and became a planter near Lake Miccosukee in Jefferson County.

When Florida achieved statehood in 1845, Moseley ran for governor as a member of the Democratic Party. In the state's first gubernatorial election, he defeated his opponent, Richard Keith Call, a former territorial governor.

As governor, Moseley focused on promoting agriculture, internal improvements, and reducing the state’s debt. He supported the establishment of Florida’s public school system and advocated for the expansion of transportation infrastructure, including roads and railroads.

Moseley’s term was marked by conflicts with Native American tribes, particularly the Seminole people, during the Second Seminole War, which had technically ended in 1842 but still saw occasional skirmishes and unrest.

- William D. Moseley died in Palatka, Florida, on January 4, 1863.

The oldest state fair in the United States is the Great New York State Fair, which was first held in 1841. The fair took place in Syracuse, New York, and has been held annually, with the exception of a few interruptions due to war and other significant events.

The New York State Fair was established to promote agriculture, domestic arts, and industry, reflecting the rural and agricultural roots of the state. Over the years, it has grown into a major event featuring a wide range of activities, including livestock competitions, concerts, exhibitions, and amusement rides.

The Great New York State Fair continues to be a major event, attracting visitors from all over the country and offering a mix of traditional and modern attractions.

The Great New York State Fair is steeped in history, having been established in 1841, making it the oldest state fair in the United States. Here are some historical highlights and details about the fair:

Origins and Early Years

- Founding: The first New York State Fair was held in Syracuse, New York, on September 29 and 30, 1841. It was organized by the New York State Agricultural Society to promote agricultural practices and showcase the state's agricultural bounty.

- First Fair: The inaugural event featured speeches, livestock exhibitions, and displays of tools and agricultural equipment. Approximately 15,000 people attended, which was a significant turnout for the time.

19th Century Development

- Throughout the 19th century, the fair continued to grow in both size and popularity. It rotated among various cities in New York State until 1890, when Syracuse became its permanent home.

- Innovations: Over the years, the fair expanded to include a variety of attractions beyond agriculture, such as art exhibits, technology displays, and entertainment. By the late 1800s, it had become a major event, attracting visitors from all over the state and beyond.

20th Century Expansion

- Permanent Grounds: In 1890, the fair moved to its current location, the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse. This allowed for the construction of permanent buildings and infrastructure, which facilitated the fair’s expansion.

- The fair celebrated its 100th anniversary in 1941, marking a century of continuous operation (with a few interruptions due to the Civil War and World Wars).

- Cultural Events: Throughout the 20th century, the fair became known for its cultural and entertainment offerings, including concerts, midway rides, and competitions, in addition to its traditional agricultural exhibits.

Modern Era

- Continued Tradition: Today, the Great New York State Fair is a 13-day event that attracts over one million visitors annually. It features a wide range of activities, including concerts, culinary competitions, agricultural exhibits, and much more.

The oldest police department in the United States is the Boston Police Department. It was established in 1838, making it the first organised municipal police force in the country.

Key Points About the Boston Police Department:

- Formation: The Boston Police Department was formally established on May 18, 1838. Before that, Boston had watchmen and constables, but the department's creation marked the beginning of a professional, organised police force.

- Development: The Boston Police Department was modelled after the London Metropolitan Police, established in 1829. Its creation was part of a broader movement in the United States to establish formal police forces in response to increasing urbanisation and social change.

- Evolution: Over the years, the department has grown and evolved, adopting new technologies, practices, and policies to meet the needs of the city and its residents.

The Boston Police Department's establishment marked the beginning of modern policing in the United States, and it set the precedent for forming other police departments across the country.

The Boston Police Department (BPD) has had several notable leaders who have significantly contributed to the department and policing in general. Here are some of the most famous leaders:

1. Francis Tukey (1807–1869)

- Position: Chief of Police (Boston Police Department)

- Tenure: 1846–1852

- Contributions: Francis Tukey is known for being an early leader of the Boston Police Department during its formative years. He was instrumental in professionalising the force, improving its organisation, and increasing the effectiveness of law enforcement in the city. Tukey’s leadership helped set the foundation for the modern policing practices that would follow.

2. Edmund L. Daley

- Position: Commissioner of Police

- Tenure: 1912–1930

Contributions: Edmund L. Daley was a key figure in the early 20th century and served as Police Commissioner during significant growth and modernisation within the department. His tenure saw the introduction of new technologies, including motor vehicles, which modernised the department’s operations. He also navigated the department through challenging times, including labour strikes and social unrest.

3. Michael J. Leary

- Position: Superintendent of Police

- Tenure: 1906–1912

Contributions: Michael J. Leary was the head of the department during a time of rapid urbanisation and social change in Boston. He worked to expand the department and improve the training and professionalism of the officers under his command. Leary’s leadership was critical in maintaining order during significant growth in Boston.

4. Edward J. McCormack

- Position: Commissioner of Police

- Tenure: 1930–1936

- Contributions: Edward J. McCormack led the Boston Police Department during the Great Depression. He is known for maintaining the morale and effectiveness of the force during difficult economic times.McCormack also worked to improve community relations and reduce crime rates during his tenure.

5. Robert F. Cawley

- Position: Police Commissioner

- Tenure: 1962–1972

- Contributions: Robert F. Cawley served as Police Commissioner during a time of significant social change, including the civil rights movement and the anti-war protests of the 1960s. Cawley’s leadership was marked by efforts to manage civil unrest and improve community relations during heightened tension.

6. Paul F. Evans

- Position: Police Commissioner

- Tenure: 1994–2003

- Contributions: Paul F. Evans is credited with modernising the Boston Police Department and implementing community policing strategies that helped reduce crime in the city. His tenure saw a focus on crime prevention, improved police-community relations, and the adoption of data-driven policing practices. Evans also helped establish Boston’s reputation as a leader in urban policing.

7. Kathleen O’Toole

- Position: Police Commissioner

- Tenure: 2004–2006

- Contributions: Kathleen O’Toole was the first woman to serve as Commissioner of the Boston Police Department. Her tenure was marked by efforts to enhance transparency, accountability, and professionalism within the department. O’Toole also worked to improve the department’s response to domestic violence and other community issues.

Six human beings were murdered.

Estimating the combined market value of U.S. AR-15 rifle manufacturers can be challenging due to the diversity of the companies involved. Many of them are privately held and do not publicly disclose detailed financial information. However, we can get a rough estimate based on publicly available data, market reports, and industry analysis.

Public vs. Private Companies: Some AR-15 manufacturers are publicly traded (e.g., Sturm, Ruger & Co., Smith & Wesson), while others are privately held (e.g., Daniel Defense, Aero Precision). The market value of public companies can be more easily estimated through their market capitalisation, while private companies would require estimates based on revenue, growth potential, and industry comparisons.

Firearms Industry as a Whole:

The U.S. firearms industry is significant, with total revenues in the tens of billions annually. The AR-15 is one of the most popular rifle platforms in the U.S., and many of the manufacturers listed are major players in the broader firearms market.

Market Value Estimates:

1. Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ: SWBI): The company's market capitalisation as of 2024 is estimated to be around $0.6 - $1 billion.

2. Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. (NYSE: RGR): The company's market capitalisation 2024 is estimated to be around $1.2 - $1.6 billion.

3. Colt's Manufacturing Company: Acquired by CZG - Česká zbrojovka Group in 2021. CZG's total market cap is around $2 - $2.5 billion, with Colt representing a significant portion of their value.

4. Vista Outdoor Inc. (NYSE: VSTO): This company includes brands like Bushmaster. Its market capitalisation is around $1 - $1.5 billion.

For privately held companies like Daniel Defense, Aero Precision, and others, we can estimate their value based on revenue multiples:

- Daniel Defense: Estimated annual revenue might be $200-$300 million, potentially valuing the company at $600 million to $1 billion, depending on growth projections and profitability.

- Aero Precision: Another large player with a similar potential valuation based on revenue.

- Palmetto State Armory could also be valued at hundreds of millions.

Combined Market Value Estimate:

Considering both public and private companies, the combined market value of U.S. AR-15 manufacturers can be estimated in the range of $5 billion to $10 billion. This range considers the major players, market conditions, and the portion of their business explicitly tied to AR-15 production within the broader firearms market.

So you mean that for $10 billion, someone could buy all the legal producers and shut the production line for these models. Hmm, where would we find ten billionaires?

As of 2024, one of the most modern nuclear power stations in operation is Olkiluoto 3 in Finland. This plant is an EPR (European Pressurized Reactor) and is the first to be completed. It officially began commercial operations in April 2023.

Olkiluoto 3 is notable for several reasons:

1. Advanced Design: The EPR design incorporates advanced safety features, including a double-walled containment structure and systems to withstand extreme events.

2. High Output: It has a capacity of approximately 1,600 megawatts (MW), making it one of the largest nuclear reactors in the world in terms of electrical output.

3. Delayed but Pioneering: Although its construction faced significant delays and budget overruns, its completion marks a significant milestone in deploying advanced nuclear reactors in Europe.

The computing power of the Mercury spacecraft compared to a modern iPhone is starkly different, highlighting the vast technological advancements over the past decades.

Mercury Spacecraft (1959-1963):

- The Mercury spacecraft's computing capabilities were minimal. The onboard systems were primarily mechanical and analogue, with minimal digital computation. Most calculations were done on the ground, and communication with the spacecraft was handled through radio telemetry.

- The only real "computer" involved was the ground-based IBM 701 or 7090, which handled data processing and flight simulation.

- The onboard systems mainly relied on simple transistor-based electronics for control and navigation, with computation power measured in just a few thousand instructions per second (KIPS).

Modern iPhone (e.g., iPhone 14 Pro):

- A modern iPhone has a multi-core processor with billions of transistors and can perform up to trillions of operations per second (teraflops). For instance, the A16 Bionic chip can handle up to 15.8 trillion operations per second.

- The iPhone also includes advanced graphics processing units (GPUs), neural engines for AI and machine learning tasks, and substantial amounts of RAM and storage.

Comparison:

The Mercury spacecraft's computing power is dwarfed by that of a modern iPhone, which is millions of times more powerful in terms of computational capability.

- To put it in perspective, the iPhone in your pocket has more computing power than all of NASA's computers combined at the time of the Apollo moon landings, let alone the Mercury missions.

- The iPhone can perform complex computations, support high-resolution graphics, and manage extensive communication and data processing tasks that would have been unimaginable with the technology available during the Mercury program.

In essence, the Mercury spacecraft had the equivalent of almost no digital computing power compared to the highly advanced and capable iPhone of today.

Two U.S. Presidents are buried at Arlington National Cemetery:

John F. Kennedy - The 35th President of the United States, assassinated in 1963, is buried in Arlington. His gravesite is marked by an eternal flame and is one of the most visited spots in the cemetery.

William Howard Taft - The 27th President of the United States, who also served as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, is the other President buried at Arlington. Taft died in 1930, and his grave is less elaborate compared to Kennedy's but still a significant historical site within the cemetery.

The last ex-president to drive across the country was Harry S. Truman. After leaving the White House in January 1953, Truman and his wife, Bess, embarked on a road trip across the United States. The journey began in Independence, Missouri, and spanned 19 days, covering over 2,500 miles.

Truman's road trip was quite a significant event, as it was unusual for a former president to travel in such an unassuming manner. The Trumans traveled without Secret Service protection, which was not mandatory at the time, and drove their own car, a Chrysler New Yorker. They stayed in motels and visited friends along the way, drawing attention and admiration from the public wherever they went.

This journey is well-documented in Matthew Algeo's book Harry Truman’s Excellent Adventure: The True Story of a Great American Road Trip, which provides a detailed account of the trip and its significance in American history.

• “Four years ago, lying opponents said the country was tired of its ideals - they waged a campaign based on an appeal to prejudice based on the dragging out of bogies and hobgoblins, the subtle encouragement of false fears. America has not lost her faith in ideals - idealism is her heart’s blood. Tricked once we have been.
  
  - Millions of voters are waiting today for the opportunity next November to reveal their vengeance on those deceivers. They await the opportunity to support a man who will return America to the fold of decency and ideals from which she has strayed and who will bring the Government back to the people.”
  
  - FDR’s nominating speech at the 1924 Democratic Convention in support of Alfred E. Smith, Governor of New York.
  Roosevelt didn’t want to give the speech, having written one himself. Al Smith insisted. Roosevelt relented and delivered the speech to thunderous applause. It was the first time Roosevelt delivered a public speech after contracting polio in 1921.