Keith Johnston

Keith Johnston is a historian specializing in the 18th century. His research has appeared in both academic and general interest publications, and was once the subject of chatter on Slate’s Political Gabfest.

Old Words for Lunch We Should Bring Back

In the 17th and 18th centuries, there were as many words for lunch as there were varieties of it. Below is a lexicon of some of these splendid words.... READ ON

People Killed by Musical Instruments

We’re used to taking it figuratively: One “slays” on guitar, is a “killer” pianist, or wants to “die” listening to a miraculous piece of music. History, though, is surprisingly rich with examples of people who met their ends thanks to a musical instrument.... READ ON

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