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Culture

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture that surrounds rivers as we explore local traditions, customs, and arts.

Activists

The River Was Dying, Then Gary Bencheghib Created Sungai Design to Save It

Ever wondered what happens to the staggering amount of plastic pulled from our precious waterways? Discover the incredible journey of environmental activist Gary Bencheghib, who didn’t just clean a river, but sparked a revolution to transform polluting plastic into stunning design. Prepare to be inspired by the story behind Sungai Watch and the innovative mission of SUNGAI DESIGN.

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Artists

Tim Palmer: The Van, The Man, The River – Charting a Legacy of Conservation

For anyone who feels the undeniable pull of a winding river, you need to know Tim Palmer. This award-winning author and master photographer has dedicated over 40 years to immersing himself in America’s waterways, building perhaps the most complete collection of river photos in existence. Through his lens and his numerous books, Tim Palmer doesn’t just show us rivers; he helps us feel their power and beauty, reminding us why these vital currents are worth celebrating and safeguarding for generations to come.

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Africa

Hands that Make the River Sing: A Baka Tradition

Deep within the heart of the rainforest, where the air hangs thick with the scent of damp earth and the calls of unseen creatures echo through the emerald canopy, a different kind of music rises. It’s a rhythm born not of drums or flutes, but of water and air, a pulse that resonates with the very spirit of the river. This is Liquindi, the ancient and extraordinary music of the Baka Forest People.

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Explorers

Trump River: Could the Mississippi Get a New Name?

What if the mighty Mississippi, the lifeblood of America, suddenly became the “Trump River”? Imagine the cascading effect, from the “Trump River Blues” echoing through the “Trump River Delta” to “Trump River Alligators” basking in the sun. This thought experiment, while absurd, exposes the surprising politics and complex history behind how we name the very landscapes that define us, revealing a story that flows deeper than any river itself.

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African American Culture

A River of Time: The Enduring Legacy of Langston Hughes

Hidden within the heart of Harlem, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture houses a poignant memorial to the legendary Langston Hughes. The “Rivers” cosmogram, a mesmerizing artwork inspired by Hughes’ iconic poem, “The Negro Speaks of Rivers,” takes us on a breathtaking journey through time and space. As we delve deeper into this captivating piece, we’ll uncover the profound connections between ancient civilizations, the African diaspora, and the enduring spirit of Black culture.

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Asia

A Royal Coronation: The Ganges on the Thames

Imagine sailing across the vast ocean, carrying a sacred cargo that could cleanse sins and grant salvation. That’s exactly what Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II did in 1902. But why would a powerful Indian ruler embark on such an extraordinary journey? The answer lies in a river that flows through the heart of India: the Ganges.

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Alabama River

Hidden Currents: Rivers Depicted on 10 U.S. State Seals

U.S. state seals serve as official emblems, symbolizing the unique identity and heritage of each region. They are typically designed to represent the state’s history, natural resources, important figures, or significant events. Rivers, as a vital part of many states’ identities and histories, are often prominently featured on state seals.

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