Mandy has studied history through multiple lenses, with a special focus on the interplay between religion, conflict, and peace. She hosts a "Thursday, Hersday" feature on her blog that shines a spotlight on barrier-breaking women in history and fiction.
Education
Undergrad Human Services, Religion, Conflict and Peace Certificate via Harvard University, Fundraising Developments via University of California — SUNY: Herkimer, 2011
Areas of Expertise
Meet the Real Girls Behind Alice in Wonderland and Wendy Darling
Wendy Darling and Alice in Wonderland are two precocious girls from classic literature. Who were the real girls behind them?
The Ancient Stories That Inspired Cinderella
These are the Cinderella stories of Rhodopis, Ye Xian, and Tattercoats, all of whom took their turn romancing royalty.
How the Astor Family Sold Fur and Became the Kings of New York
From fur to Fifth Avenue: how the Astor family clawed their way to the top of New York society.
5 Famous Women Shunned for Marrying for Love
From scorned queens to exiled nobility, these daring famous women risked it all for love and often found the sacrifice well worth it.
Love or Friendship? The Obscure Truth About Thomas Jefferson and Angelica Schuyler
While their separate relationships with Alexander Hamilton would go on to inspire a hit musical, the truth about these two historical figures remains highly obscure.
4 Famous Tales About Wild and Feral Children From History
From kids who wandered out of the woods to legends of fae changelings, the tales of feral children have both shocked and fascinated readers for centuries.
Did the Romani Spread the Art of Belly Dance?
Discover how medieval Rajasthan brought us the art of belly dance.
4 Heroines of the Titanic Who Braved the Waters
During the tragic sinking of the Titanic, certain women emerged as beacons of courage, compassion, and strength, leading efforts to comfort, save, and uplift survivors.
6 Most Famous Occupants of the Trinity Church Cemetery in New York
Step into Trinity Church cemetery and meet some of history’s most notable people—and a few mysterious figures—resting beneath its hallowed grounds.
The Pagan Roots and Timeless Legacy of the Notre-Dame
Explore the site of Notre-Dame de Paris, from its sacred Gaulish beginnings to its housing of Christianity's priceless relics.
5 Spooky Places With Witchy Histories for Halloween
Discover spooky spots steeped in witch-related history that are perfect for a Halloween adventure.
7 Spooky Holidays From Around the World
Explore the origins, traditions, and cultural significance of Samhain, Halloween, Day of the Dead, and other spooky holidays celebrated around the world.