Tracing the lasting legacies of France’s 132-year presence in Algeria — from colonization to cultural connection By The Global Compass | Published on October 29, 2025 Algeria and France share a history that is intimate, violent, inventive, and unresolved. From the landing at Algiers in 1830 to the exodus of Europeans in 1962 and the quieter cultural entanglements of today, French rule reshaped Algeria’s cities, economy, and institutions — and those legacies remain visible, contested, and alive.

When Charlemagne (r. 768–814) forged the Carolingian Empire, he created the most powerful realm in early medieval Europe. His domain stretched from the Pyrenees to the Elbe, and from the North Sea to central Italy. While medieval Europe was far from urbanized compared to the ancient Roman world, Charlemagne’s empire still contained important centers of commerce, administration, and culture. Below we explore some of the largest and most influential cities of his reign, ranked by their prominence in population, political importance, and legacy.

The Mongol Empire, founded by Genghis Khan in the early 13th century, became the largest contiguous land empire in history. At its height, it stretched from Eastern Europe to the Pacific Ocean, encompassing regions of modern-day China, Russia, the Middle East, and Central Asia. While the Mongols were originally a nomadic people, they ruled over some of the world’s greatest cities.

Irish ancestry is woven into the story of countless cities across the globe. Some wear it proudly with parades, festivals, and political clout, while others preserve it in family names, pubs, and traditions. Here’s a ranked look at the top 10 cities where Irish heritage runs deepest — with facts, anecdotes, and a touch of Irish charm. At a Glance: The Irish Diaspora’s Top Cities…

For many travelers, the journey is just as important as the destination. Around the globe, there are roads that transform driving into an unforgettable experience, offering breathtaking views of mountains, oceans, forests, and deserts. Whether you’re planning a road trip or simply love daydreaming about open highways, here are some of the most scenic drives in the world—with tips on when to go and what not to miss.

Yellowstone National Park is one of America’s most breathtaking destinations, brimming with geothermal wonders, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes. While you could easily spend weeks exploring its 2.2 million acres, a well-planned three-day itinerary allows you to experience the park’s most iconic highlights without feeling rushed. Here’s how to make the most of your visit. Day 1: Geysers, Hot Springs, and the Grand Prismatic…

The Midwest is often overlooked when it comes to music culture, but this heartland of the U.S. is home to some of the most vibrant, diverse, and unforgettable festivals in the country. From indie rock to electronic beats to country roots, there’s something for every music lover. If you’re planning your festival calendar, here are the top Midwest music festivals worth attending year after year.

Top Countries with the Biggest Demographic Shifts in the Last 25 Years 1. Kazakhstan: Reclaiming Its Kazakh Identity Photo by Aibek Skakov on Pexels.com After the Soviet Union’s collapse, Kazakhstan experienced a sweeping shift in ethnic composition. Ethnic Russians and Europeans, who once comprised a large share of the population, migrated west; simultaneously, ethnic Kazakhs returned from neighboring countries. As a result, Kazakhstan reestablished a Kazakh majority—moving the demographic needle far more than had been seen in decades prior.

From the Scottish Highlands to the mountains of Kashmir, secessionist movements continue to shape politics, identities, and borders in the 21st century. While not all of these movements have the same level of international attention—or even the same goals—they all share a common thread: the desire for greater autonomy or full independence from the countries they currently belong to. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most prominent and influential secessionist movements around the globe, looking at their histories, motivations, and current status.

Catholicism spans every continent, but some cities are home to truly massive Catholic populations. Using metro-area population data and the best available estimates of Catholic share, here are the ten largest Catholic metro areas in the world, along with iconic Catholic sites in each. 1. Mexico City, Mexico ~16.0 Million Catholics Photo by Ricky Esquivel on Pexels.com Prominent Catholic Site:

Our planet is home to some truly otherworldly places—landscapes so unusual they feel like they belong in a fantasy novel or a science-fiction movie. From rainbow-colored mountains to eerie salt flats that look like glass, these destinations show off nature’s most creative side. Here’s a journey through some of Earth’s most jaw-dropping and unique landscapes. 1. Zhangye Danxia Landform, China…

Canada is a dream destination for anglers, offering pristine waters, breathtaking scenery, and a huge variety of fish species. Whether you’re casting a line in the tranquil north or battling salmon on the Pacific coast, there’s no shortage of unforgettable fishing spots. Here are some of the best places to fish in Canada. 1. Haida Gwaii, British Columbia

Sports have long been a mirror of cultural values and social connection. But just like music genres or fashion trends, certain sports fade in popularity over time. Changing lifestyles, digital entertainment, safety concerns, and shifting tastes have left some once-dominant activities struggling to maintain relevance. From grassroots participation to television audiences, here are ten sports around the globe experiencing noticeable declines.

New Zealand is more than just breathtaking landscapes — it’s Middle-earth come to life. For fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, the country offers an immersive experience where fantasy and reality merge. Whether you’re a die-hard Tolkien reader or simply love Peter Jackson’s films, here are the must-visit locations that will transport you straight into the heart of Middle-earth.

If you’re planning an adventure on a shoestring budget, backpacking is the ultimate way to see the world. Traveling light allows you to explore at your own pace, meet other like-minded travelers, and immerse yourself in new cultures — without breaking the bank. From vibrant cities to breathtaking natural wonders, here are some of the best backpacking destinations across the globe, complete with affordable travel tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Around the world, governments, architects, and developers are reimagining urban life through the creation of planned cities—meticulously designed urban areas built from scratch. These futuristic metropolises aim to address everything from overpopulation and sustainability to technology integration and climate change. Let’s explore some of the most ambitious planned cities currently in development or on the drawing board. 1. NEOM – Saudi Arabia’s $500 Billion Futuristic City…

When you think of cities, you might imagine centuries of layered history, chaotic growth, and organic expansion. But not all cities evolved that way. Some were meticulously planned from scratch—designed with intent, ideology, and infrastructure in mind. Over the last century, numerous planned cities have emerged as bold experiments in urban design. They showcase the dreams of architects, urban planners, and governments who dared to shape the future of how we live.

In a world where myth and geography often intertwine, few legends are as captivating as that of the Sword of St. Michael. This celestial alignment of seven monasteries—stretching from Ireland to Israel—traces an almost impossibly straight line across Europe and into the Middle East. To believers, it represents the powerful sword stroke of the Archangel Michael himself, a divine slash across the Earth.

Anglicanism, rooted in the traditions of the Church of England, has grown from its English origins into a global communion with millions of followers spanning continents. Though it began as a Protestant movement in the 16th century, today the Anglican Communion represents a wide range of cultures, expressions of worship, and theological perspectives. In this blog post, we’ll explore and rank the countries with the largest Anglican populations, giving you a glimpse into the global reach of this influential Christian tradition.

The American Midwest is often called the heartland for good reason—its vast plains, rich farmland, and deeply rooted Catholic heritage have long been a spiritual wellspring for pilgrims seeking solace and connection with the Blessed Virgin Mary. Scattered across these humble states are remarkable Marian shrines, many of which are steeped in history, miracles, and beauty. Whether you're planning a pilgrimage or simply love discovering sacred places, here are some of the most awe-inspiring Marian shrines in the Midwest.

In a world where megacities and urban sprawl are defining the 21st century, it's easy to forget that not all cities are growing. In fact, some are rapidly shrinking. Urban population decline can be driven by economic stagnation, aging populations, political instability, or environmental challenges. Here's a deep dive into the cities around the globe that are losing residents at alarming rates—and what that means for their future.

In an age of booming cities and overpopulation concerns, it might come as a surprise that several countries are facing the opposite crisis—rapid population decline. Shrinking populations can lead to labor shortages, economic contraction, and increased strain on social welfare systems. The causes vary—from low birth rates to high emigration and aging populations. Here’s a look at the countries with the fastest-declining populations in 2025 and what’s driving this global demographic shift.

The Crusades are often remembered for their religious fervor, epic battles, and dramatic sieges—but they also left behind a unique political legacy: the Crusader states. While many of these Latin Christian territories were short-lived, some defied the odds and endured for centuries. In this post, we explore the Crusader states that stood the test of time, showcasing their resilience, political intrigue, and ultimate fate.