Have you ever imagined state-sponsored prostitution for “research purposes”? LSD-crazed soldiers being interrogated over psychic powers? A psychic superpower “arms-race”?

Julian Assange is probably going to be freed soon and many claim his suffering came as a result of pissing off the American Deep-State and its long arm: The Agency.

The CIA has been involved in numerous unbelievable operations and experiments, some of which have sparked significant controversy. Here's a thread with some of the most infamous ones: Operation Midnight Climax (1950s-1960s):

As a part of MKUltra, the CIA set up safe houses in San Francisco and New York City where prostitutes, hired by the agency, would lure men to the locations. Once there, the men were secretly dosed with LSD, and their behavior was observed through one-way mirrors.

The goal was to study the effects of the drug on unwitting subjects and to find ways to use it for coercion and interrogation.

Venice: La Serenissima that never was

I had dreams of Venice lately; and dreams are messages from the deep.

That’s why I came to Venice to see the remnants of a State that even though it advertised itself as “serene”, it was all but it. A romantic thread by a Byzantine: The Republic of Venice,traditionally known as La Serenissima, was a sovereign state and maritime republic with its capital in Venice. The whole main city was built on canals.

Miyamoto Musashi: A Warrior & Philosopher

Throughout the ages, there have been examples of legendary figures that honored their nation, their family, their legacy. Some of them excelled in battle; others excelled in tactics while some were distinguished for their strategies. But I cannot think many that excelled in all aspects; this is why the legend called Miyamoto Musashi is a Colossus.

In the annals of history, few figures loom as large as Miyamoto Musashi, a name synonymous with the epitome of the samurai spirit and martial prowess. Born in 1584, Musashi's life spanned a transformative period in Japan, as it shifted from the warring states of Sengoku Jidai to the more stable and culturally rich Edo period. While Japan was transforming, Miyamoto was also evolving into a legend.

A master swordsman, philosopher, and artist, Musashi's legacy is immortalized in his treatise "The Book of Five Rings," a work that transcends mere martial instruction to encompass a profound philosophy of life.

Follow me down this deep-dive thread as I take you back in time, in the midst of turbulent changes in Japan, to explore the life of a legend, as his personality evolved and his skills unfolded, on his way to immortality. The Early Years: Birth of a Warrior

Not much is very clear about his early life but we do have some clues. Miyamoto Musashi was born in Harima Province (modern-day Hyogo Prefecture), the son of a samurai named Shinmen Munisai. Musashi gives his full name and title in The Book of Five Rings as Shinmen Musashi-no-Kami Fujiwara no Harunobu (新免武蔵守藤原玄信).

From an early age, he probably was scared by eczema, which affected his appearance; it developed in his infancy, and later legends were born out of it. One of them said that he never bathed himself because he did not want to be surprised unarmed.

Musashi started training very early; he was immersed in the world of martial arts, learning the rudiments of swordsmanship from his father. Obviously, apart from the eczema, he suffered from a serious case of BallsOfSteel-iasis because legend has it that Musashi fought his first duel at the tender age of 13, defeating a well-known samurai named Arima Kihei, showcasing his burgeoning talent and indomitable spirit.

So, let’s pause our story for a moment; do you remember yourself around 13? Because I think I was watching Pokémon or trying to imagine how girls smelled like (because no female being would come near me) or play ball with ma boys out in the street. But Miyamoto dueled with Katanas with grown-up dude – who happened to be a samurai – and destroyed him (literally, ended his career and life).

A Dystopian Present

Does the world around us make sense to you? Do words count? Is the “Truth”, true? Are the “Bad Guys”, bad indeed? And if they are not the bad guys, what does that make us? Who are we? Did Orwell write novels or a manual for today’s totalitarian regimes?

It’s been a while since the last time I wrote such a piece; but the global geopolitical conditions are compelling indeed and I cannot help but contemplate upon the dystopian present that will define our future, sooner than expected. George Orwell’s work, particularly his novels "1984" and "Animal Farm," remains profoundly relevant in analyzing contemporary global events.

Orwell's exploration of themes such as totalitarianism, propaganda, surveillance, and the manipulation of truth provides a framework for understanding the political and social dynamics in today's world. Let’s dive deeper into his work, our present and maybe ask a few questions about our future.

Have you ever imagined accessing some of Humanity’s greatest minds? Tapping into millennia-old wisdom?

I did the work and concentrated some of the greatest quotes of Greek and Roman philosophers, with their sources. This thread contains thoughts that shaped Western philosophy. Socrates

"The unexamined life is not worth living."

Source: Plato's "Apology," 38a.

Father-Son Relationships That Shaped History

Throughout history, father-son relationships have had profound impact, shaping the political, cultural, and religious landscapes of their times. These bonds of blood and power not only influenced their contemporary world but also left legacies that resonate to this day.

Follow me down this honorary Father’s Day thread to discover some of the most impactful father-son relationships that changed our world forever. Philip II and Alexander the Great
Philip II was a transformative king who built Macedonia into a dominant military power. His innovations in military tactics and organization laid the foundation for his son, Alexander the Great, to embark on an unprecedented campaign of conquest.

Alexander created the Hellenic Empire, one of the largest empires in ancient history, spreading Greek culture across three continents and setting the stage for the Hellenistic era.

Ancient Pyramids Around the World

Pyramids are one of the most fascinating architectural forms ever created, appearing all around the globe. These ancient structures, often built as tombs, temples, or for astronomical uses remain real mysteries.

Let's explore some of the world's most remarkable pyramids. Egypt: The Cradle

Giza Pyramid Complex: The most iconic pyramids, including the Great Pyramid of Giza, were built during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom. They served as monumental tombs for pharaohs such as Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure.

The Socratic Method: Birth of Ideas
Have you ever imagined a super-tool of Thought and Conversation? Have you ever heard of the Socratic Method and the “birth of ideas”?

Follow me down this quick thread to discover more about one of the greatest minds that ever lived. Socrates (469-399 BCE) was an ancient Greek philosopher who lived in Athens. He didn't leave any writings himself; we know about his thoughts and methods primarily through his students, especially Plato.

Nearchus: A Journey into the Unknown
Have you ever imagined Greeks fighting Sasquatches? A fleet in battle formations against giant whales? Towns made of bones? Fish-people and Sun-loving cults coming in contact with the Hellenistic era explorers?

You recently asked for Badass History and my Subscribers voted for a Hellenistic Era topic; I am here to deliver both with a wild exploration story. A journey of brave men that embarked to explore the unknown, and lived to tell the story. Such is our story today, the near-mythical and gruesome journey of Nearchus, Alexander’s admiral, who traversed the Great Southern Ocean on an expedition from India to the Persian Gulf.

Follow me on this journey while i narrate the unbelievable pain, anguish and glory of men who encountered monsoons, strange cults, beastly tribes and other sights that the Greeks could not have imagined possible. In the waning days of Alexander the Great's relentless campaigns, as the fires of conquest simmered in the embers of an empire stretched to its limits, a new odyssey beckoned. The Southern Ocean, vast and shrouded in mystery, called out to the bold and the brave.

Among those who answered this call was Nearchus, a trusted admiral and friend of Alexander, whose name would be etched into the annals of history as a daring explorer of uncharted waters.

Gladiators: Ancient Rome’s Superstars
Imagine stepping into the roaring Colosseum, where the air buzzes with anticipation and the crowd's cheers echo off the ancient stone walls. The gates creak open, and from the shadows emerge the legendary gladiators of Rome—warriors whose valor and skill would define an era.

Each fighter, clad in distinctive armor and armed with unique weapons, transforms the arena into a vivid tableau of martial prowess and survival. The variety of gladiator types in Ancient Rome reflected the empire’s diverse influences and the audience's appetite for varied, thrilling combat. Each gladiator’s distinct gear, style, and appearance made the games a complex and captivating spectacle. Welcome to the world where heroes are forged in the crucible of combat, where every clash of steel and every drop of sweat tells a story of courage, honor, and relentless ambition.

Follow me into the heart of Rome's most exhilarating spectacle—the gladiatorial games!

The early morning of June 6, 1944, marked a day that would forever alter the course of history. In a meticulously coordinated assault, the Allied forces embarked on the largest amphibious invasion ever attempted, known as D-Day. This daring operation, code-named Operation Overlord, aimed to bring an end to World War II in Europe.

Join me as i delve into the monumental events of that fateful day, exploring the intricate preparations, the ferocious battles, and the enduring legacy of D-Day. By 1944, World War II had raged for nearly five years. The Allied forces, consisting of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and other nations, had long been planning a decisive assault on occupied Europe. This operation was code-named Operation Overlord.

Plato, a Giant of philosophy for ancient Greece - and the West as a whole - left us with a treasure trove of wisdom that still deeply resonates today. He was the tutor of Aristotle after all, and it is now in order to share some of his wisdom.

His insights into human nature, society, and the pursuit of knowledge never cease to inspire and challenge us. Follow me down this thread, to explore some of his most profound quotes and the timeless lessons they offer. "The first and greatest victory is to conquer yourself."

Aristotle, one of the most influential philosophers in Greek and Western history as a whole, left behind a treasure trove of wisdom that continues to inspire and guide us today.

In this thread, we'll explore some of Aristotle's greatest quotes, each offering a timeless lesson for personal growth and understanding the world around us. Let's dive into some profound wisdom: 1. “We are what we do repeatedly. Excellence, then, is a habit - not an action.”

What can be more heartbreaking than the fall of the Second Rome? What can be more badass than a Greek King replying - for the second time in history - to barbarians: "Come and Get Them!"?

Today in History, Constantinople fell; this is a the story of courage, defiance and a promise; the promise that the Last Emperor shall return and reclaim his City.

In the spring of 1453, the fate of Constantinople, the jewel of the Byzantine Empire, hung by a thread. The City, once the epicenter of Christian power and GrecoRoman culture, faced the relentless advance of the Turks. As the Ottoman forces gathered, the defenders of Constantinople, led by Emperor Constantine XI Palaiologos, prepared for the onslaught. The city's formidable Theodosian Walls, which had withstood numerous sieges over the centuries, stood as the last line of defense against the advancing Turks.

How is Plato connected to The Matrix? What is the Cave of Darkness? What is the purest form of Truth? How do the esoteric allegories of the Matrix connect to Philosophy?

In the realm of philosophical inquiry, few stories have captured the imagination and provoked thought as profoundly as Plato's Allegory of the Cave and the modern sci-fi classic, "The Matrix." These narratives, separated by over two millennia, delve into the fundamental questions of perception, reality, and the pursuit of truth.

Plato's allegory, an integral part of his work "The Republic," presents a metaphorical scenario exploring human ignorance and enlightenment. Similarly, "The Matrix," a revolutionary film by the Wachowskis, envisions a future where humanity is trapped in a simulated reality, raising questions about the nature of existence and consciousness.

Follow me down this thread, through the darkness of the Cave, we can examine these two parables side-by-side and uncover deep philosophical insights in our ongoing quest for understanding the true nature of reality. Plato (Πλάτων), born Aristocles (Ἀριστοκλῆς; c. 427 – 348 BC), was an ancient Greek philosopher of the Classical period who is considered a foundational thinker in Western philosophy and an innovator of the written dialogue and dialectic forms.

He raised problems for what became all the major areas of both theoretical philosophy and practical philosophy, and was the founder of the Platonic Academy, a philosophical school in Athens where Plato taught the doctrines that would later become known as Platonism.

Plato's most famous contribution is the theory of Forms (or Ideas), which has been interpreted as advancing a solution to what is now known as the problem of universals. He was decisively influenced by the pre-Socratic thinkers Pythagoras, Heraclitus, and Parmenides, although much of what is known about them is derived from Plato himself.

Assassin’s Creed: The Origins from the Orient

Who could be terrifying enough to strike fear into the hearts of Crusaders, Mamluks, Arabs, Turks and Mongols? Who do you think all these mighty warriors were afraid of? Who were those figures that operated from the shadows and threatened soldiers, lords, Kings, Emperors, Khans and Sultans alike? Who was the mysterious “Old man of the Mountain”?

I am pretty sure you have read legendary stories about the Crusades; the Byzantine Imperial might, the Crusaders’ unbreakable spirit, the Muslim zeal to defend their faith. But this is not just another story about the Crusades, but rather one about Shadows and Fear. Emerging from the rugged mountains of Persia in the late 11th century, a secretive sect was born and grew to become the Nizari Ismailis, or more ominously, the Assassins’ Order.

Follow me down this thread, through the sands of time and shadowy recesses of history, where legends intertwine with reality; where this clandestine brotherhood existed and struck fear into the hearts of their enemies: kings and sultans alike. The origins of the Assassin order are almost lost in time and mystery; it was most probably born in Persia by Ismaili missionaries, a branch of Shia Islam that diverged from mainstream dogma. They were probably caught up in the middle of Seljuk-Turkish invasions from the far-East, beyond the Oxus River; the riders from the Steppes were new-recruits of Islam and not very keen on engaging in dogmatic discussions or accepting defiance.

Therefore, that group of persecuted people sought refuge in the steep mountains of Persia, south of the Caspian Sea; they managed to capture the legendary Alamut Fortress, which would fatefully become the seat of their power. Their leader was Hasan-i Sabbah, of Alamut, also ended up known as the first “Old Man of the Mountain”. An ominous title, signifying death upon being spoken.

Titanomachy: The Battle for the Cosmos

Have you ever imagined a battle tearing the fabric of the universe? Have you wondered who ruled the Skies before Zeus? Who were those powerful deities that ruled over our world before the Olympians? Can you imagine a battle between such primordial beings?

In the shadowy mists of ancient Hellas, before the dawn of mortal heroes and the reign of the Olympians, the cosmos trembled with the thunderous clash of titans versus the gods. This was the Titanomachy, a cataclysmic war that shook the very foundations of the universe. It was a time when colossal beings, the Titans, who had ruled the heavens, earth, and underworld with an iron grip, faced an insurrection led by their own kin—the Olympians.

The sky burned with lightning, the earth quaked under colossal feet, and the seas roiled with fury as god battled god in an epic struggle for supremacy. Follow me down this thread to experience the cataclysmic power, pure chaos, and the relentless pursuit of dominion, the Titanomachy. The Titanomachy is one of the pivotal moments of Greek mythology, and was the point in time when one generation of gods, the Titans, were replaced with another, the Olympians. It means “the battle of the Titans” in Greek and was a ten-year war fought through a number of battles between three sets of enemies.

Unfortunately, details of the war do not survive into the modern day, and the only reference point today comes from Hesiod, but this work details with the genealogy of the gods rather than being a detailed story of the war.

Flavius Aetius: The Last Roman of the West

Have you ever heard of the man who managed to stop the Scourge of God? The man who dared to stand against the Horde of the Huns? The Last True Roman of the West?

In the twilight of the Roman Empire, amidst the chaos of warring factions and the looming shadows of barbarian hordes, a single Roman stood at the precipice and denied to accept the Fall of Rome. He was Flavius Aetius, the last of the true Romans, a titan amidst mortals, and a hero whose legend would endure through the ages.

Follow me down this thread, as I give you glimpses of a Giant’s life while he stood defiantly against all odds. And even though the sands of time may have long since claimed the empire he fought to defend, his legacy echoes through eternity still. The Roman Empire was officially divided into Eastern and Western halves in 395 AD. This division eventually led to the gradual divergence of the Eastern Roman Empire, later known as the Byzantine Empire, from its Western counterpart, which faced increasing pressures from barbarian invasions and internal instability.

The Eastern Empire was much more successful compared to the West, as it was a unique result of fusion between Rome and the Hellas, maintaining strong cultural, martial and organizational frame, with Constantinople at its core. As the Western Empire was very close to crumbling, they often found themselves victims of blackmail and extortion. Indicatively, they were also forced to be treated with their own medicine, as young noble Romans were often sent as hostages to barbarian tribes.

Have you ever wondered what could be going on in the mind of a man who was born and bred for War? How he Warrior Ethos and Psyche of a Spartan were forged?

In case you wanted a dose of masculine wisdom, a boost to go out there and crush the day, a glimpse into the mind of a King that marched with his men to sacrifice themselves for their nation, TheBlackWolf is here for you.

Here are some proverbs and words attributed to King Leonidas of Sparta, by Plutarch. Leonidas, the son of Anaxandridas and the brother of Cleomenes, in answer to a man who remarked, "Except for your being king, you are no different from the rest of us," said, "But if I were no better than you others, I should not be king."

Have you ever wondered where the legends of Lycanthropy originate from? Have you ever imagined the Argonauts or the Kingdom of France fighting werewolves? Did you know the ancient Greek geographers and historians were mapping whole regions with such beastly populations? Did you have any idea that there is a Christian Saint, depicted with a canine head?

In the heart of this enigma called lycanthropy, the lines are blurred between man and beast, sanity and madness. Some say it is a curse cast by vengeful spirits, while others believe it to be a primal instinct buried deep within the human soul, waiting for the right moment to awaken.

Follow me down this thread, while I guide you through dark tales from Ancient Greece to Medieval Europe, trying to explore tales shrouded in mystery, riddles waiting to be unravelled by those brave enough to venture into the heart of the unknown. In folklore, a werewolf (from Old English werwulf 'man-wolf'), or occasionally lycanthrope (from Ancient Greek λυκάνθρωπος, lykánthrōpos, 'wolf-human') is an individual who can shape-shift into a wolf or, especially in modern folklore, a therianthropic hybrid wolf-like creature. This can be caused either as a curse or spread through a bite or an injury (by someone already afflicted).

This phenomenon seems to originate from ancient Greece (if not even earlier – in ancient Egypt), with Greek geographers and historians trying to map regions all over the world with such beasts. The concept persisted all the way into more recent European folklore, existing in many variants, which are related by a common development of a Christian interpretation of underlying European folklore developed during the medieval period.

From the early modern period, werewolf beliefs also spread to the New World with colonialism. Belief in werewolves developed in parallel to the belief in witches, in the course of the Late Middle Ages and the early modern period.

Have you ever seen a larnax made of 24-carat gold, weighing 11 kilograms? Wreaths made of gold? Golden bees and acorns?

Especially a larnax containing the ashes of a king? One that Alexander the Great touched with his own hands, as he was carrying the ashes of his father?

Follow me down this thread, as I take you back in time, showing you glimpses of Alexander’s life and how the greatest empire of the world was born. All these finding are in museums in Vergina, a small town in northern Greece, Central Macedonia. Vergina Greece is known as the site of ancient Aigai, the first capital of Macedonia. In 336 BC Philip II was assassinated in Aigai’s theatre and his son, Alexander the Great, became the king.

From Aigai, the Macedonians spread to the central part of Macedonia and displaced the local population of Pierians. In the first half of the 5th century BC, Aigai became the capital of Macedonia, the most important northern Greek state.