Monday, January 13, 2025

Today’s History newsletter examines Aphrodite’s power over the ancient world, hunts for new evidence in Virginia Dare’s disappearance, figures out one of adventure’s greatest mysteries ... and begins a 13th year following a pathbreaking walk around the world. Plus, is a mutt better than a designer dog?

SCALA, FLORENCE

Aphrodite had a lot of jobs—patron of love, beauty, fertility, and war. Her influence in the ancient world over matters of love and desire has been immense—from blood sacrifices to today’s worldwide outpouring of roses on Valentines Day. 

Related: The fierce Amazons were more than myth—they were real

Also: Revealing the hidden lives of ancient Greek women

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF THE DYATLOV MEMORIAL FOUNDATION 

PHOTOGRAPH BY NATALIE HUTCHISON 

For 12 years, journalist and National Geographic Explorer Paul Salopek has been, step by step, walking the world. He is retracing the path of human civilization, from its beginnings in Africa. How many miles has he walked so far? 

A. More than 5,000 
B. More than 8,000
C. More than 12,000
D. More than 15,000

Related:  Tracing human migration from our origins in Ethiopia’s Rift Valley

Also: Discovering a corner of China still untouched by machines

Today’s Soundtrack: Venus, Bananarama

Thanks for reading today’s newsletter—and, if you missed it, here’s our Photo of the Week. Don’t miss our adventures in 2025; Sign up here for our other adventures! David Beard edited and curated this issue; Alisher Egamov produced it.