Even if you’ve never been hauled downtown in a paddy wagon, there’s a chance you’ve had your fingerprints taken. They’ve been used to establish people’s identities for thousands of years, but it wasn’t until the early 20th century that police used them to track criminals. Before that, the Bertillon system was the standard identification method in much of Europe and the U.S. It measured more than a dozen different body parts — including the ears, nose, arms, head circumference, sitting height, and standing height — to identify suspects and criminals. Eye color, scars, and other distinguishing features were noted on a standardized card that also included a mug shot. The system was named for its creator, French anthropologist Alphonse Bertillon, who developed it in 1879. By 1898, 10 American cities including New York, Philadelphia, and Boston had begun using the system and coordinating …Read More

admin June 20, 2026

General

Contemporary Sámi Music: Reviving Yoik Traditions & Modern Fusion

The Evolution of Yoik: From Ancient Ritual to Contemporary Sound The yoik, a foundational element…

admin June 16, 2026

General

Russian Sámi: The Lost Heritage and History of the North

Historical Foundations of the Russian Sámi Communities The Russian Sámi represent one of the most…

admin June 20, 2026

World History

The History of Dairy: How Humans Embraced Milk

Explore how dairy reshaped cultures and economies across millennia, from ancient herds to modern cuisines.

admin May 4, 2026

Arts & Culture

Why Was Fire Management Important in Sami Households?

Explore how fire management shaped Sami households, enhancing warmth, safety, and traditional practices in harsh northern environments.

admin April 30, 2026

Famous Figures

Gas, Satire, and the Pragmatic Promise of Scented Enlightenment

A witty take on gas, satire, and the practical allure of scented enlightenment in a provocative blend of humor and insight.

admin June 22, 2026

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