World War One: A Short History by professor Norman Stone. It is, according to expert and those interested, one of the most well-written and interesting books about the first World War. I look forward to read it. When done, a review will follow. Related; I finished reading Ottoman People and the End of Empire by professor Justin McCarthy. A review of this book will be published in the coming days.

It’s almost unbelievable, but British novelist Ian McEwan could face charges for saying that he “despises Islamism.” A fellow novelist, Martin Amis, has already been accused of ‘racism’ and hate-speech for basically saying the exact same thing. (more…)

The Politico argues that the Democrats may not be the only ones who may nominate a woman as Vice President; the GOP has some good, able women as well. Since there is no ‘favorite’ for the GOP VP spot at this moment, the Politico has come up with a list of three women, who should be taken very seriously. (more…)

Pro Publica reports that ‘[a]n Arab-language television network and radio station, founded by the Bush administration to promote a positive image of the United States, has aired anti-American and anti-Israeli viewpoints, has showcased pro-Iranian policies and recently gave air time to a militant who called for the death of American soldiers in Iraq.’ (more…)

The New York Times reports that ‘[w]ith the right technology and policies, India could help feed the world. Instead, it can barely feed itself.’ India has one of the fastest growing economies in the world. Yet, millions of Indians have trouble buying food for themselves and their family. (more…)

Russia beat the Dutch team yesterday with 3-1. The score was 1-1 after 90 minutes, so they had to play over time. In the second half of the over time (15 minutes per half), Russia was able to score twice. It was a deserved victory for the Russians; the Dutch were the best team in the tournament until yesterday; yesterday they were not able to impress. (more…)

We all know that Obama supporters will pretend that Republicans in general, and John McCain specifically, are racists for, well, not supporting the junior Senator from Illinois. We all know that. So, when they do, we shouldn’t be surprised. What did surprise me, however, is that Obama accuses Republicans of playing the race card himself, directly, before Republicans have done anything that could possibly be interpreted as race baiting. (more…)

Via The Moderate Voice comes the news that the Republican National Committee has outraised the Democratic National Committee five times. As Joe Gandelman points out, Democrats who were bragging that their man Barack Obama would outspend John McCain considerably may be wise to stop bragging for a little while; the RNC has said it will use its money to help ‘level the playing field.’ (more…)

Is the unification of Europe in danger after the Irish ‘no’ to the new (constitutional!) treaty? Perhaps not, but there is a lot of unrest. First European leaders blasted the Irish for their ‘no.’ Now they have decided to approach the Irish in a calm manner, and to ask them why they voted against the Lisbon treaty. (more…)

Yesterday, Turkey had to play against Croatia in the second quarterfinal of this year’s European Championships football in Austria and Switzerland. The first quarterfinal was won by Germany two days ago (beating Portugal). The match between the Turks and Croats was boring for the most part, but the last minutes were breathtaking. (more…)