A ground-breaking book, written by Thomas Hobbes and published in 1651. In it he argues for a reciprocal relationship between obedience (from the people) and protection (by the state), so this work is considered one of the first works of social contract theory. With Hobbes arguing from this position, it could easily be read that he was advising people to come to terms with the new parliamentarian regime in England.
Leviathan
Fact of the Day
In 1850, cannabis was used in the US to treat tetanus, typhus, cholera, rabies, dysentery, alcoholism, anthrax, leprosy, and insanity.
Quote of the Day
"Don't put your trust in revolutions. They always come around again. That's why they're called revolutions.
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~ Terry Pratchett
On This Day
1586 American colonists arrived in Plymouth with large quantities of tobacco. Smoking caught on quickly, though it was also used in tea.
1694 The Bank of England was founded by an act of parliament as a way to finance government debt by private subscription.
1943 The concentrated Allied bombing of Hamburg led to a three hour firestorm that killed approx 30,000 civilians.