‘'I Humbly Beg Your Speedy Answer'' Review: Instruction Fit to Print
One of the lessons of ''I Humbly Beg Your Speedy Answer,'' Mary Beth Norton's delightful compendium of 17th-century advice to the lovelorn, is a sobering one to us today: Things that we think are binary and absolute have, historically, often been neither. Take marriage. Today you are either married or you are not. Those are the only possibilities. Yet for much of European history, until well into the 18th century in many places, being a little-bit married was routine.
Marriage, under this conception, wasn't a one-time event. It was a process. There were usually four stages, all of them irreversible. First, a couple made a formal vow or commitment to each other to marry. Then came a public agreement and exchanging of tokens—typically a ring or a split coin. Then there was the ceremony and, finally, the consummation, or sexual congress.
Because of this staggered process, it was possible to be in a marriage but not fully married. A 17th-century couple could, for instance, have made vows but skipped the religious ceremony, in which case their marriage would be legally considered 'valid but not legitimate.' If vows had been exchanged but parental consent withheld, the couple was in the awkward position of being neither married nor permitted to marry anyone else. Ever.
Into this odd (to us) situation entered the genre now called advice-writing, the earliest example of which was found in the Athenian Gazette, or Casuistical Mercury, more commonly known as the Athenian Mercury. In ''I Humbly Beg Your Speedy Answer,'' Ms. Norton, a professor emerita of American history at Cornell University, brilliantly selects the most compelling—or bizarre—examples from this broadsheet, which John Dunton, a London printer, started in 1691. Dunton designed the paper to appeal to the customers of coffee shops, novel establishments where men met to sip that 'newfangled drink,' smoke and gossip. With two friends—including Samuel Wesley, the father of John and Charles Wesley, founders of Methodism—Dunton dreamed up 'the question project': Readers could anonymously write in with questions on any topic, and answers would be provided in subsequent editions. The first call for questions evoked such a huge mailbag that the weekly broadsheet quickly began to appear twice a week.
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June's full strawberry moon: When to see it and what it means for your zodiac
As summer peeks its head around the corner, so does the first full moon of the season -- June's radiant "strawberry moon." Known for ushering in a wave of joyful, expansive energy, this lunar event marks a vibrant celestial moment to kick off the warmer months. Celebrity astrologer Kyle Thomas, who is known for his cosmic guidance among celebrities, businesses and online influencers, spoke to "Good Morning America" about the best ways to take advantage of this joyous full moon. But first, let's break down the meaning of the strawberry moon. When can you see the strawberry full moon in 2025? The full moon will reach peak illumination in the United States on Wednesday, June 11, at 3:45 a.m. ET, according to the U.S. Naval Observatory's astronomical applications department. Why is it called the strawberry moon? According to the Old Farmer's Almanac, which began publishing full moon names in the 1930s, some Native American tribes referred to June's full moon as the "strawberry moon" to mark the short but sweet strawberry harvest season. An alternative name from old European traditions is the "honey moon," as honey was often harvested around the same time in late June, NASA notes. This may be one reason why the term "honeymoon" became associated with weddings traditionally held during this month. NASA also points to another theory, that the word "honeymoon" stems from the custom of giving newlyweds mead -- a fermented honey drink -- to enjoy during their first month of marriage. Additionally, the Old Farmer's Almanac mentions that other tribes gave June's full moon names like the "birth moon," "egg laying moon," and "hatching moon," all referencing the season's themes of fertility and new life. What zodiac sign is the strawberry moon in June? The zodiac sign of each full moon is determined by the moon's position in the night sky relative to the astrological signs. Each year, this placement shifts slightly, influencing the energy and characteristics associated with the full moon, according to Thomas. This year, the strawberry moon falls in the sign of Sagittarius -- a fire sign known for its adventurous spirit. Sagittarius is the ninth sign of the zodiac and sits on the same axis as Gemini, an air sign. Thomas explains that these two signs rule over communication, including media, publishing and our global connections -- both personal and professional. "Sagittarius is a zodiac sign that encourages us to learn more about the world and expand our perspective of life, often through travel, academics or spirituality," Thomas added. "We are encouraged to pursue adventure, charge into the unknown, and learn about how we relate to others and philosophize our place in the cosmos." Rituals and manifestations to try during the strawberry moon Many ancient cultures and religions celebrate celestial cycles, including finding ways to honor and harness the power of the full moon. To make best use of this intense energy, many astrologers believe that a full moon is a great time to manifest your dreams. Due to Sagittarius being a fire sign, Thomas said incorporating fire into your rituals can be particularly powerful such as using candles, incense, or sage smoke. "Since full moons are excellent times for releasing, cleansing or letting go, writing down things you'd like to release from your life or spirit on paper and then burning them can be a cathartic way of working with the energy," Thomas added. Potential meditations, mantras or journal prompts: I expand my horizons and pursue new adventures. My mind, spirit, and life are limitless like the sky. I choose to be an eternal sojourner. I am curious about new ideas and lifestyles and am open to unique perspectives. Astrology horoscope for the strawberry moon for your zodiac sign Aries (March 21 - April 19) Spread your wings and expand your horizon, Aries! "You may feel invigorated to switch up your routine and move in new directions," Thomas said. "Some of you may decide to focus on a long-distance travelling journey or international business or relations. If involved in the media or eager to be, you may also see opportunities to grow now." Taurus (April 20 - May 20) It's time to reassess your relationships, Taurus! "If you've been feeling unfulfilled, you could speak up or instead decide to part ways," Thomas explained. "Another way this could affect you is around financial matters, bringing a shift or the arrival of a bonus, venture capital, new credit line, inheritance, or settlement. Assets and investments are favored." Gemini (May 21 - June 20) Transformation or chaos are approaching, Gemini! According to Thomas, "You are at a time where you will be facing the truth in a significant partnership. On one hand, this could bring you closer, allowing for more synergy, collaboration, and happiness. Moving in, making promises, getting engaged, or even being wed could be up for conversation." Cancer (June 21 - July 22) Get ready to be booked and busy, Cancer! "You may realize that you're busier than ever, juggling many projects and plans for your employer as well as all of the responsibilities in your personal routine, too," Thomas added. "You may be taking on more for your job or even leaving one job to start another. If out of work, this lunation could bring your resume to the top of the pile, so get applying!" Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22) It's time to literally live, laugh and love, Leo. "Romance, dating, and courtship could all be particularly enjoyable now, regardless if single or attached," Thomas said. "If ready to meet someone new, download an app, mingle amongst friends, or ask someone out near this time. It could be a fantastic match! If committed, use this energy to reignite your spark. Fertility, pregnancy and children could also be themes that pop up near this time." Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) Reflect and grow, Virgo! According to Thomas, "Emotional stability and security are important themes near this time. In fact, you may be quite reflective on your past, your heritage and your traditions now too. An important shift around your domestic life, home, or family may also pop up, such as a desire to move, renovate, or redecorate." Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) Get out and mingle, Libra! "You will likely feel especially curious, social and eager to step out of your comfort zone," Thomas added. "On one hand, this could be in regards to intellectual pursuits, such as getting involved with or debuting a writing, speaking or advertising endeavor. A significant contract could also manifest as if out of thin air!" Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) There might be some changes in your finances, Scorpio. "Money will be a major factor on your mind as you plan out things now and in the months ahead. A raise, new job offer, or side hustle could also present itself," Thomas explained. "Some of you may also leave one job or income stream to pursue a new one. If spending cash on important possessions, watch your bank accounts." Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) Claim your spotlight, Sagittarius! "You will feel like all eyes are on you!" Thomas added. "An important personal or professional goal that you've been building toward for six months or longer could now be at your fingertips. You will be especially fired up, so make sure that you assert yourself and your dominance so everyone knows what you desire and how you'd like to proceed." Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) Sit back and reflect, Capricorn. According to Thomas, "You may feel a desire to rest, recharge, and recuperate. Pushing too hard against the grain now would only burn you out more, so finding time to meditate, nap, and heal are paramount. However, you may instead be feeling a bit haunted by baggage, dreams, trauma, or the past, so working with a therapist or engaging with spirituality could help you ultimately find closure and peace." Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) Flow with your chosen family, Aquarius! "This is an excellent period to join groups and communities, volunteer, or become actively engaged with a cause that you believe in," Thomas said. "However, there's plenty of fun likely on the menu, too! You may attend events, expand your network, or even find success in online dating if you are single and looking." Pisces (Feb. 19 - March 20) Big career moves are on the table, Pisces! "You may receive praise, success, or recognition for work that you've been building toward for six months or longer," Thomas explained. "A new job offer, promotion, or award may now fill you with pride. However, if you aren't in the right job or industry, you may quickly realize it and need to pivot in a new direction."

USA Today
an hour ago
- USA Today
When is Juneteenth? Is it a federal holiday? What to know
When is Juneteenth? Is it a federal holiday? What to know Show Caption Hide Caption What is Juneteenth? Holiday celebrates end of American slavery in Texas Juneteenth celebrates the Emancipation Proclamation, but the Emancipation Proclamation didn't apply to all states in the USA. The 13th Amendment brought an end to slavery. USA TODAY, Wochit The nation's youngest federal holiday is around the corner. Juneteenth commemorates the events of June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas when the last Black slaves of the Confederacy were ordered free following the arrival of Union troops. The day, which rose to national prominence in 2020 amid nationwide protests for ongoing racial inequities in the justice system between Black people – specifically Breonna Taylor and George Floyd – and police, was officially recognized a federal holiday by President Joe Biden in 2021. Here's what to know about the holiday and what day it occurs. Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle. Juneteenth: Everything to know about the federal holiday When is Juneteenth? Is it a federal holiday? Juneteenth National Independence Day is on Thursday, June 19, this year, and is considered a federal holiday. Will banks be closed on Juneteenth? Juneteenth is considered a bank holiday, according to the Federal Reserve. The United States Postal Service, schools, and most banks, like Wells Fargo, Citibank, Bank of America, Truist, and others, will also be closed on June 19. Fact check: No, a George Floyd statue wasn't removed from the National Mall What is Juneteenth? The holiday commemorates the Emancipation Proclamation in the U.S. President Abraham Lincoln issued the proclamation to free enslaved African Americans in secessionist states on January 1, 1863, but enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, would not learn of their freedom until two years later. On June 19, 1865, Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger informed the community of Galveston of Lincoln's proclamation. Although enslaved people had been officially emancipated years prior, enslavers responsible for telling them ignored the order until Union troops arrived to enforce it, founder of Cliff Robinson earlier told USA TODAY. Texas was the last Confederate state to have the proclamation announced. Though the story of Texas' emancipation is the most widely known, president of the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation Steve Williams previously told USA TODAY, other significant events in the history of emancipation took place on and around that date. He said the first known Juneteenth celebrations began in 1866 and spread across the country as African Americans migrated to new cities. Why is it called Juneteenth? Juneteenth is a combination of "June" and "nineteenth," in honor of the day that Granger announced the abolition of slavery in Texas. The holiday is also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day. Contributing: Natalie Neysa Alund, Julia Gomez, N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA TODAY Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at sshafiq@ and follow her on X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.


San Francisco Chronicle
2 hours ago
- San Francisco Chronicle
Today in History: June 18, War of 1812 begins
Today is Wednesday, June 18, the 169th day of 2025. There are 196 days left in the year. Today in history: On June 18, 1812, the War of 1812 began as the United States Congress approved, and President James Madison signed, a declaration of war against Britain. Also on this date: In 1778, American forces entered Philadelphia as the British withdrew during the Revolutionary War. In 1815, Napoleon Bonaparte was defeated in the Battle of Waterloo as British and Prussian troops defeated the French Imperial Army in Belgium. In 1979, President Jimmy Carter and Soviet President Leonid Brezhnev signed the SALT II strategic arms limitation treaty in Vienna. In 1983, astronaut Sally Ride became America's first woman in space as she and four other NASA astronauts blasted off aboard the space shuttle Challenger on a six-day mission. In 1986, 25 people were killed when a twin-engine plane and helicopter carrying sightseers collided over the Grand Canyon. In 1992, the U.S. Supreme Court, in Georgia v. McCollum, ruled that criminal defendants could not use race as a basis for excluding potential jurors from their trials. In 2018, President Donald Trump announced he was directing the Pentagon to create the Space Force as an independent branch of the United States armed forces. In 2020, the Supreme Court, in the case of Department of Homeland Security v. Regents of the University of California, rejected by a 5-4 decision President Donald Trump's effort to end legal protections for more than 650,000 young immigrants. In 2023, the submersible vessel Titan, on an expedition of view the wreckage of the Titanic in the North Atlantic Ocean, imploded, killing all five people aboard. Today's Birthdays: Musician Paul McCartney is 83. Actor Carol Kane is 73. Actor Isabella Rossellini is 73. Singer Alison Moyet is 64. Football Hall of Famer Bruce Smith is 62. Hockey Hall of Famer Martin St. Louis is 50. Actor Alana de la Garza is 49. Country musician Blake Shelton is 49. Football Hall of Famer Antonio Gates is 45.