Encyclopćdia Britannica

The Elegant Universe DVD illuminates one of the most revolutionary theories in physics today. Known as string theory, this startling idea proposes that the fundamental ingredients of nature are inconceivably tiny strands of energy, whose different modes of vibration underlie everything that happens in the universe.
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Two pioneers in painting are recalled this week: Edouard Manet, who paved the way for Impressionism and who died in Paris on April 30, 1883; and Willem de Kooning, one of the leading Abstract Expressionists, who was born in Rotterdam on April 24, 1904.

William Shakespeare

His name carries great weight and cultural significance, and knowledge of his work has long been a requisite for the “educated” class in any language in any land. But why? What makes Shakespeare so special? And is there any legitimacy to the debate over his identity? In honour of the Bard's birthday this week, Britannica is proud to present a new multimedia spotlight highlighting his life, work, influence, and legacy.

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Biography of the Day

American entertainer Barbra Streisand—one of the most popular singers of her generation, a star of stage and screen (especially in musicals), and one of the most powerful women in show business—was born this day in 1942.

This Day in History

On this day in 2005, Pope Benedict XVI (Joseph Ratzinger), successor to John Paul II, formally assumed his position as the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church during a mass in St. Peter's Square in Vatican City.
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Photo Quiz

Who's the Artist?

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Quizmaster: Geography

It is the advantage and the nature of the strong that they can bring crucial issues to the fore and take a clear position regarding them. The weak always have to choose between alternatives that are not their own.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Letters and Papers from Prison

Britannica's interactive Timelines trace key dates and developments through history with illustrations and encyclopedia links.

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Encyclopædia Britannica has published, for more than 200 years, the foremost writers, thinkers, and scholars in the world. Our Classics feature highlights some of these famous contributors and their writings for Britannica.

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Britannica's interactive World Atlas features national flags, country profiles, and hundreds of political and physical maps.

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Britannica's popular Year in Review covers the most important people and events of the previous year, from Nobel Prize winners to the films taking top honours around the world. Select a year to begin your review.

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