Barbora Jirincova
@barbora-jirincova
Barbora is a historian and a university teacher from the Czech Republic. She studies the history of women and the early modern ages. She holds a Ph.D. in history from Charles University in Prague, where she teaches. She is passionate about teaching history to the broader public. Understanding history can make the world a better place. She is also a contributing writer and copywriter and loves writing on various topics.
Disasters in the History of Disease: When Doctors Got It Wrong
While reading the history of disease one cannot help but laugh sometimes. Yet, their mistakes, however bizarre they seem today, had serious consequences.
Are There Still Lepers? The History of Leprosy in 5 Chapters
Leprosy is a terrifying disease. However, lepers are not very infectious, and not every mention of "leprosy" in the sources is what we think.
Boycotts of the Olympic Games: A History of Sports & Politics
Sports and politics are connected. We can pretend otherwise, but the truth is that sports have never been innocent, and the Olympic Games stand as the loudest example.
Martin Luther vs. John Calvin: The French vs the German Reformation
When John Calvin died in 1564, he considered his work done; Calvinism had spread through Europe. Yet, in the years to come, new battles against the Lutherans would storm Europe.
The Great Papal Schism: Two Christian Leaders Against Each Other
On September 21st, 1378, the Christian world woke up to a terrifying reality. The papal schism meant that the Western Church had two heads; both declared the other heretics.
Ignatius of Loyola: How a Soldier Founded the Jesuit Order
In Central Europe, the Jesuits are seen as the burners of books. Only a few know that Ignatius of Loyola strictly forbade his followers any coercion on their missions.
The Counter-Reformation: How did the Catholic Church Reinvent Itself?
The Counter-Reformation is represented by images of burning piles of books and crowds of Jesuits but also by splendid baroque churches and increased literacy.
Ferdinand II: The Counter-Reformation Emperor
In the 17th century, the Habsburg dynasty closely allied itself with the Catholic side. Ferdinand II was the most fervent defender of the Catholic faith.
The Early Modern Period in Europe: How Did the Middle Ages End?
The Early Modern Period was a drastic shift from the Middle Ages. But what caused the changes? There is no precise black-and-white answer.
Clemens Lothar Metternich: The Man Who Saved “Old Europe” From Napoleon
Clemens Lothar Metternich was a symbol of old Europe in the 19th century. He protected this Europe from Napoleon and from nationalists and revolutionaries in 1848.
How the Thirty Years´ War Began in Prague
The Thirty Years' War was the deadliest conflict the world had ever known in the 17th century. The war shook Europe, and it all began in Europe's heart: Prague.
Julia the Elder: The Rise & Fall of Augustus’ Disobedient Daughter
Julia the Elder was a wife and mother to the Caesars. Yet, she ended her life alone on an island, exiled by her own father.