I was bored to tears with history throughout primary and secondary school. It seemed to be little more than lists of dates, old white guys’ names, battles, and treaties. Put them together with a droning teacher’s voice and the sluggish afternoon sun, and time slowed to a never-ending crawl.
Recently, I’ve gotten more interested in history, largely due to two podcasts: A History of the World in 100 Objects and Backstory. Both turn my grumpy middle school era memories of history on their ear with interesting topics and playful exploration. At the same time, Ingress has led me and my boyfriend to read more of D.C.’s neighborhood heritage trail signs -since such signs can be registered as portals- while we blast enemy resonators or wait to rehack.
Kate Gorman 