The Bristorian introduces The Past Today, a unique series presenting you with the headlines of today’s past.
The series is made up of short, sharp, yet impactful 500 word pieces, designed to bring some intrigue and entertainment to your day.
The Persistence of a Dream: A History of the Walt Disney Company
On this day in 1923, the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio was established. Martha Chapman explores the huge cultural legacy of what was to become one of the most successful media organisations of human history.
Corpse Bride: A Timeless Halloween Classic
On the 20th anniversary of Corpse Bride’s release in the UK, Editor-in-Chief William Budd explores the stop-motion film’s music, themes and longevity as a seasonal must-watch for Halloween.
‘Tears of Morning Dew’ - Berserk and the Passing of Kentaro Miura
May 6th marks the anniversary of Kentaro Miura’s passing, an incredibly influential artist who created what is perhaps the greatest manga of all time, Berserk. Alfie Stubbs explores Miura’s life legacy, and untimely death.
‘Iceberg, right ahead!’: 113 Years after The Titanic
Charlie Whittle explores the events leading to and the consequences of the Titanic’s fateful collision with an iceberg, on the evening of 14 April 1912.
‘Does Your Mother Know’ It’s Been 51 Years Since ABBA Won Eurovision
51 years ago today, ABBA won Eurovision with the song ‘Waterloo’, skyrocketing them to international fame and making them the icons we know and love today. Scarlett Bantin explores their cultural impact and legacy today.
The Discovery of the Terracotta Warriors
On 29th March 1974, , on a small farming commune in Lintong Village on the outside of Xi’an, the Terracotta Warriors was found by a group of farmers.
‘Fear the Old Blood’ - 10 Years of Bloodborne
On 24 March 2015, FromSoftware’s critically acclaimed Bloodborne released. Alfie Stubbs explores its Victorian Gothic roots and its effect on the gaming industry over the last decade.
‘You Can Be Anything!’: How Barbie Has Inspired Girls Since 1959
On 9 March 1959, Barbie debuted at the American International Toy Fair. Manini Manushi Gangal explores the history of Barbie and their aim to inspire limitless potential in every girl.
World Book Day
Rafe Llewellyn explores the global history and significance of World Book Day, and its importance in promoting literacy and access to books.
‘Basketball was a taboo in this world’ – The Release of Slam Dunk
On this day, 34 years ago, the first volume of Slam Dunk was published. Alfie Stubbs looks at the history of the hugely influential sports manga and its effect on basketball in Japan.
Hitler’s Appointment as Reich Chancellor
On this day, 92 years ago, Adolf Hitler was sworn in as Chancellor of Germany. Sophie Caballero-Pearce analyses the first step in Hitler’s rise to the position of Führer.
Oliver Cromwell’s Disinterment - 30th January 1661
Oliver Cromwell is a name that England is unlikely to ever forget. Cromwell notoriously won the English Civil War, became Lord Protector and acted as the ruler of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland. In many people’s eyes, he was a hero of liberty and one of the most significant figures in British history. However, he was simultaneously an enemy of the monarchy. Cromwell successfully upheaved the monarchy and was the main signatory for the execution of King Charles I. This is what sparked the very grisly and very English story of what would happen to Oliver Cromwell’s head years later.
What Will You Make? – How the Lego Brick was Developed
On 28 January 1958, The Lego Group applied for a patent for their iconic eight-stud Lego brick in Denmark, nine years after it first went on sale. Ben Bryant looks at the history of one of the world’s most iconic toys.
‘Here’s to the fools who dream.’: The Anniversary of La La Land’s Release in the UK
On 13 January 2017, La La Land was first released in the UK, delivering a story of art, dreams, and love. Ben Bryant explores the origin and impact of the award-winning film, which questions whether following your passion is worth the potential sacrifices.
The Death of the Great Survivor – 8th January 1976
On this day in 1976, the hugely influential Zhou Enlai passed away. William Budd commemorates his life and achievements 49 years after his death.
The Dissolution of the Soviet Union
On this day, 33 years ago, the Soviet Union was officially dissolved as a sovereign state, drawing 69 years of dictatorship to an end. Alfie Stubbs reflects on the Soviet Union’s decline and its place in modern memory.
Samurai Itō Hirobumi becomes the first Prime Minister of Japan after the Meiji Restoration
On the 2nd of December 1885, Samurai Itō Hirobumi becomes the first Prime Minister of Japan after the Meiji Restoration.
‘The greatest gay victory’: the American Psychiatric Association declares homosexuality is not a mental illness
On this day in 1973, the American Psychiatric Association shifted their attitude on homosexuality as a mental illness. Editor-in-Chief AJ Birt explores this landmark change in attitudes towards homosexuality in the USA.
‘They slew Llywelyn, never will we forget’: 742 years after the death of the Prince of Wales
On this day, in 1282, the last native and independent Prince of Wales, Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, was killed at the Battle of Orewin Bridge by English forces. Erin Davies-Thomas explores the life and death of this Welsh hero and reflects on his place within Welsh memory today.
‘This day will never come again, so let me have this moment.’: The 30th Anniversary of PlayStation
On this day in 1994, the PlayStation was released for the first time, catapulting the home video game market into the commercial stratosphere. Alfie Stubbs writes about this momentous event.