Vivian Yao
Bio
News, economy, history, politics, and much more...
Stories (63/0)
Revolutionizing Solar Energy: Transforming Parking Lots into Power Stations
In recent years, the United States has been making significant strides in transitioning to renewable energy sources, with solar power playing a crucial role in this shift. However, the expansion of solar projects, particularly large-scale solar farms, has faced numerous challenges, including environmental concerns, land usage issues, and opposition from local communities. As a solution to these challenges, experts are turning their attention to an unexpected source of potential solar energy: parking lots.
By Vivian Yao8 months ago in Earth
The Long Road to Reconciliation: The Complex History of US-Cuba Relations
Introduction The recent move to open up relations between the United States and Cuba marks a historic turning point in their tumultuous relationship, ending decades of hostility and ushering in a new era of diplomatic engagement. However, to truly grasp the significance of this development, it's essential to delve into the deep-rooted history of discord between these two nations. Contrary to popular belief, this story doesn't begin in the 1950s but stretches back to the mid-19th century, a time when the United States was grappling with issues of slavery, imperialism, and its own identity.
By Vivian Yao9 months ago in Journal
The Interwoven Tale of Oil, Climate Change, and Development
Introduction In 1856, scientist Eunice Foote conducted a groundbreaking experiment that set in motion a chain of events that would shape the world as we know it today. Foote's experiment, which compared the warming effects of regular air and carbon dioxide, laid the foundation for our understanding of the greenhouse effect. Over a century later, the world celebrated the centennial of the American oil industry, a milestone marked with a sobering speech by physicist Edward Teller. He warned that burning fossil fuels and emitting extra carbon dioxide could trigger a catastrophic greenhouse effect, potentially submerging cities like New York.
By Vivian Yao9 months ago in Earth
Riding the Rails: A Journey Through America's Train Travel Dilemma
Introduction Train travel in the United States, a once-iconic mode of transportation that helped build the nation, now exists in a peculiar limbo. In a country known for its love-hate relationship with trains, the rail network that was once the envy of the world has faded into obscurity. So, what went wrong? How did the U.S. fall so far behind, and is there any hope of reclaiming its former glory? To explore these questions, a journey aboard Amtrak, from Los Angeles to New York City, spanning 70 hours, provides ample time to ponder the rise and fall of American train travel.
By Vivian Yao9 months ago in Journal
Imran Khan: From Cricket Superstar to Pakistan's Prime Minister
Introduction March 25th, 1992 marked a historic moment for Pakistan when its national cricket team clinched victory against England to secure the World Cup. At the forefront of this triumph was Imran Khan, a global celebrity known for his cricketing prowess and dashing persona. However, almost three decades later, Imran Khan has embarked on an entirely different journey – becoming Pakistan's Prime Minister. This article explores the transformation of Pakistan's cricket icon into a political leader and examines the challenges he faces in a nation long influenced by its formidable military.
By Vivian Yao9 months ago in Journal
Poland's Slide Towards Authoritarianism Challenges the EU's Democratic Foundations
Introduction Poland, once hailed as a symbol of democratic progress in Europe, is facing a concerning shift towards authoritarianism under the rule of the right-wing political party PiS. The party's actions, including undermining the rule of law, curbing media freedom, and purging the judiciary, have raised alarms both within the country and across the European Union (EU). This article delves into the history of Poland's democratic journey, the rise of PiS, and its implications for the EU.
By Vivian Yao9 months ago in Journal
The Ripple Effect: Brazil's Operation Car Wash Scandal and its Impact on Latin AmericaThe biggest corruption scandal in Latin America’s history
Introduction Comperj, the colossal petrochemical complex in Brazil's Itaboraí, stands as a testament to both ambition and scandal. What was once envisioned as an economic boon became a symbol of corruption in Brazil's history, stemming from the infamous Operation Car Wash. This far-reaching scandal implicated influential Brazilians, including CEOs, politicians, and even a former President, casting a long shadow of economic devastation.
By Vivian Yao9 months ago in Journal
Colombia's Open Arms: A Beacon of Hope Amidst Venezuela's Crisis
Introduction Venezuela's deepening crisis has sent shockwaves through Latin America, leading to an exodus of millions of desperate people. They are seeking refuge and a chance at a better life in neighboring countries, and one nation, in particular, has emerged as a beacon of hope amidst this humanitarian catastrophe: Colombia.
By Vivian Yao9 months ago in Journal
The Complex Relationship: US Arms Sales to Saudi Arabia and the Middle East
Introduction In August 2018, tragedy struck the streets of Dahyan, Yemen, when a fighter jet unleashed a bomb near a bustling marketplace, leading to the death of 40 innocent children on a school bus. This devastating incident was attributed to a coalition led by Saudi Arabia, which has conducted thousands of airstrikes in Yemen since 2015, often targeting civilian sites. It was later revealed that the bomb in question, serial number 94271, was a 500-pound laser-guided bomb manufactured by Lockheed Martin in the United States. This tragic event highlights a longstanding relationship between the US and Saudi Arabia, with the latter being the largest customer of American weapons. But why does the US sell such a significant volume of arms to Saudi Arabia, and is there a possibility that it will cease these sales? To understand this complex dynamic, we must delve into history.
By Vivian Yao9 months ago in Journal
The Elusive Kingpin: El Chapo's Tunnels and the Drug Trade
Introduction In 2015, the world witnessed a remarkable event as Joaquin Guzman Loera, famously known as "El Chapo," escaped from a maximum-security prison in Mexico, leaving authorities astounded and raising concerns of increased violence in Mexico and an influx of drugs into the United States. El Chapo was the formidable leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, a notorious criminal organization responsible for thousands of deaths in Mexico's violent drug wars. However, what set El Chapo apart from other drug traffickers were his extraordinary abilities: transporting vast quantities of drugs across borders and, most notably, repeatedly eluding capture. This article delves into El Chapo's unique method – tunnels – and how this innovation shaped his dominance in the drug trade.
By Vivian Yao9 months ago in Criminal
The Strait of Hormuz: A Powder Keg in Global Geopolitics
Introduction The Stena Impero, a British oil tanker, sailing through the perilous waters of the Persian Gulf, received a radio message on July 19, 2019, that would change the course of its journey. Iranian naval forces, armed with speed boats and helicopters, swiftly boarded and seized the vessel. This dramatic incident marked just one of many troubling episodes involving oil tankers in recent months, as the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz became a focal point in the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran.
By Vivian Yao9 months ago in Journal
Turkish Invasion in Syria: Unraveling the Complex Web of Conflict and Consequences
Introduction In October 2019, a plume of smoke rose from a town in Syria, marking the devastating impact of Turkish airstrikes as they began their invasion of northern Syria. The conflict was a long-anticipated Turkish military operation that sent shockwaves through the region, leading to significant civilian displacement. But what is the underlying motive behind Turkey's desire to establish a so-called safe zone in northeastern Syria, and what are the implications of this invasion? To understand this complex situation, we must delve into the historical context and the multiple actors involved.
By Vivian Yao9 months ago in Journal