When the Virginians Defeated the Shawnees

Two-hundred-fifty years ago, on October 10th 1774, 2,500 Virginians defeated Chief Cornstalk’s mostly Shawnee warriors at Point Pleasant, WV on the Ohio River. It was the only significant battle in a six-month-long war named after Virginia’s last colonial governor, the Earl of Dunmore, who himself led one of two columns that crossed the Allegheny Mountains into Indian country. The Virginians sought to end  Shawnee, Mingo and … Continue reading When the Virginians Defeated the Shawnees

America’s Cultural Revolution: A Magical Time

It’s the cliché with the ring of truth—cultural change in America begins in California. And so it was with our cultural revolution. Not the destructive class struggle of Chairman Mao, but a revolution in consciousness—a new way of thinking, activism and questioning. Ironically from today’s perspective, it began with the free speech movement at UC-Berkeley in 1964. Fresh from the Mississippi Summer freedom project, student … Continue reading America’s Cultural Revolution: A Magical Time

Inspiring People I’ve Met

During five decades of traveling and writing, I’ve met several people who through their humanity and ability to stay focused conveyed a rare, clear sense of purpose. Here’s my list. Warren Buffett  What you see is what you get. Despite being the world’s most successful investor, Warren keeps his ego in check.  He is modest and straight forward, exhibiting genuine interest in the person he’s talking to. … Continue reading Inspiring People I’ve Met