February 12 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Abraham Lincoln and Charles Darwin. What an incredible coincidence, that two of the most important and controversial figures of the 19th century were born on the same day!
While their pursuits differed, both men made an indelible mark on the world as we know it today. Darwin is considered by many the father of modern biology; Lincoln led our nation through its biggest crisis.
They were not without their flaws; Lincoln, it has come to be known, wasn't exactly the exemplar of racial enlightenment we read about in middle school textbooks. Both suffered from depression.
Blemishes aside, both were lightning rods in their times. Their memory challenges us to question the status quo and take a stand.
Tonight at 7, "
NOVA: Judgment Day: Intelligent Design on Trial" takes a closer look at the evolution controversy that erupted in Dover, Pa. schools in 2004. It's a fascinating and charged topic, and I head into this intersection of science and religion full speed ahead.
Tomorrow night at 8, "
Looking for Lincoln" takes a critical look at the man behind the myth. Curious to hear what you all think of this program after it airs. (Some of you may have already seen it at one of our advance screenings ... did anything surprise you?)
If you were given the chance to spend time with one of these two historical figures, who would you choose and why? What would you ask them?
Happy Birthday, you two.
-Elizabeth
