Passover
Passover, one of Judaism's holiest of times, has begun. It represents the time when Yahweh spared the ancient Israelites from the final and most devastating plague visited on the ancient Egyptians, the death of first-born sons.

Jews today celebrate Passover with quiet reflection and a symbolic meal, the Seder.

Easter
Easter is both a religious and a commercial holiday. The commercial part of this phases-of-the-moon-based holiday is all about the Easter Bunny, who brings candy to all who hope to get something sweet. This aspect of the holiday has its basis in traditions as well.

The religious aspect of the holiday is specific to Christianity. In this religion, Easter is the day on which Jesus, the Savior of Christians, was resurrected, or rose from the dead. Christianity has Good Friday as well. This is the day on which Jesus was crucified, or killed by being nailed to a wooden cross. For Christians, Easter is a time of reflection and rejoicing.

Why Does the Date of Easter Move?

It has to do with the full moon and spring equinox and some church discussions a very long time ago.

Introduction of the Union Jack
The United Kingdom has a long and storied history, partly reflected in its flag, the Union Jack.

If you look closely, you can see echoes of the country's past: the Scottish flag melded with the English flag to produce one flag that symbolizes the Grand Union of the two. It was that exact union that was declared on April 12, 1606, under Scotland's King James VI, who became King James I of England and united the two countries under one king and one flag.

Ping Pong Diplomacy
It was called "the Ping heard round the world" by one newsmagazine. It was a sporting event that showed, even in some small way, that two political enemies could engage in nonviolent competition. It is most often referred to as Ping Pong Diplomacy. It was a series of sporting events, but it was so much more than that. It pitted China against the U.S. in a battle of table tennis set against the backdrop of the Cold War.

The First Modern Olympics
The modern Olympics were largely the brainchild of French educator Baron Pierre de Coubertin, who made it his number one priority to revive the spirit of fellowship and competitiveness found in the Ancient Olympics.

The first modern Olympic Games took place in 1896, in Athens, Greece. A total of 14 nations sent athletes, totalling 245 (all men). The Games took place April 6–15. The number of events staged that year was 43, in 9 sports. Not surprisingly, Greece dominated the medal standings.