The ritual of public penance - including death by burning - of condemned heretics, imposed by the Inquisition.
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Fact of the Day
When news of the fall of Jerusalem in 1187 reached Pope Urban III, he is said to have died immediately of shock and grief.
Quote of the Day
"Getting up in the morning is no pleasure; Drinking in the morning is the best.
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~ François Rabelais, monk and scholar
On This Day
1787 The 'First Fleet' of 11 ships carrying convicts to Australia left England.
1888 Slavery was abolished in Brazil.