Why is a Strawberry Not a Berry?

Why is a Strawberry Not a Berry?
A legend says that the name ‘strawberry’ comes from the 19th century when children from England picked this fruit and sold them as they were strung on grass straws. It further states that they were once called ‘straws of berries’. An even later theory, which is one practiced even today, is that the name comes from the practice of using straw to protect the growing plant while the fruit ripens. Whatever theories you may come across do take note that strawberries are not berries. Berry or Not Botanists do not classify this fruit along with other berries, pointing to the fact that strawberries are not berries. A bit of a more technical way to say it is that this fruit is not a true berry. Examples of true berries would include cranberries and blueberries, which have their...

Why is Rizal Considered the National Hero in the Philippines?

Why is Rizal Considered the National Hero in the Philippines?
Historians and laymen can produce many reasons why Jose Rizal is the national hero of the Philippines. Below are some of the most frequently cited ones. Nobility and Dignity What set Rizal apart from the others were his methods. Instead of relaying on the sword, he relied on the might of the pen. Using this method he was able to produce novels and poems that touched the Filipino’s soul. Without resorting to violence, he made Filipinos realize the oppression they were going through under the Spaniards. In his poems he also made it clear how important it was to love one’s country. It was a noble approach and something unique. Instead of raising arms, he embedded in the Filipino an idea. Unlike warriors, an idea cannot be killed. It is this reason why Jose Rizal is the national hero of...

Why is Pluto Not a Planet?

Why is Pluto Not a Planet?
There are several reasons given by astronomers as to why Pluto is no longer a planet. To better understand it, some background information is essential. Discovery and Classification In 1930 Clyde Tombaugh spotted the object over Arizona. It wasn’t entirely unexpected. The movements of the other planets suggested the existence of another one. Even before its discovery, scientists were confident in its existence, which they called Planet X. The Kuiper Belt Early on, it was assumed the Solar System consisted of the nine planets, their satellites, comets and the asteroid belt. Over the years, several heavenly bodies were discovered. Eventually scientists discovered the existence of the Kuiper Belt. These objects covered the space from Neptune up to 55 AU (astronomical units). This discovery...

Why Was the Great Compromise Important?

Why Was the Great Compromise Important?
The importance of the Great Compromise is that it led to the creation of the Senate and House of Representatives. To better understand, it’s crucial to know the background and historical situation. The Virginia Plan That year, the states gathered to formulate the structure of the new government. There were two plans submitted. The Virginia Plan proposed three government branches. Furthermore they suggested that there be two chambers for making laws. The first one would be selected by the people through vote. The members of the second house would be chosen by those from the first house. Their choices however, would be limited to those nominated in state legislatures. The Virginia Plan also wanted the President and the judges to be appointed by way of the legislature. The New Jersey Plan The...

Why Do We Celebrate Labor Day?

Why Do We Celebrate Labor Day?
Every first Monday of September, Americans take a moment to recognize the contributions of the working man. It was officially inaugurated in 1882 and there are several reasons why people celebrate Labor Day. To Make Amends There are many theories concerning its origin. Some claim President Cleveland signed it into law to make up for what he did in the past. There was a rally by railway unionists in Chicago. The President ordered state troops to take command. The ensuing battle led to the deaths of over 30 workers. Others claim that the holiday was put in place because of an incident in Chicago wherein 8 workers were unjustly accused (and executed) for crimes they didn’t commit. There are other legends, but they have a common theme. That is, it was to pay back the workers for the wrongs...