JWR’s Introductory Note: This is an update to an article that I wrote for SurvivalBlog in December, 2005. It is part of a series of SurvivalBlog 20th Anniversary update re-posts, in recognition of the fact that the majority of readers did not join us until recent years. — Whilst pondering the various possibilities for the future, it is easy to get caught up in the minutiae of radio frequencies, milligram dosages, microns of filtration, calibers, and calories per ounce. (You’ll read plenty of those details in SurvivalBlog. But in doing so. we can easily lose sight of bigger, far more…

Bier, a well-known graffiti tagger in Portland, has been convicted of 51 counts related to vandalism, marking his second major legal setback this year following a prior gun conviction. This high-profile case raises questions about the consequences for repeat offenders in the art of street tagging and the measures authorities are taking to combat graffiti-related crimes in the city. As graffiti continues to spark debate over urban expression versus illegal vandalism, Bier’s convictions highlight the ongoing struggles faced by law enforcement in addressing both public safety and community graffiti initiatives. The tagger’s notoriety and legal troubles have sparked a mix…

Following several national debt defaults (in 1557, 1575, and 1596), on November 29, 1596, King Philip II of Spain ordered the devaluation of the country’s silver coinage.  This included the famed Spanish Ocho Reales de Plata (“Pieces of Eight”) silver coin. By the 1630s, most coin mintings had 20 to 30% less silver than previously required. This debasement, combined with their sovereign debt, eventually led to the decline of the Spanish empire. — On November 29, 1890, the first US Army – US Navy football game was played, at West Point. The score: Navy 24, Army 0. — Today is…

The tragic shooting in Uvalde, Texas, where 19 children and two adults lost their lives, has intensified discussions about the complexities of U.S. gun laws. Despite numerous calls for reform, attempts to restrict gun ownership face significant obstacles due to the Second Amendment and the powerful influence of pro-gun advocacy groups, such as the National Rifle Association (NRA). The federal Gun Control Act of 1968 outlines who can purchase firearms, but loopholes exist, particularly with sales over the internet. Texas, which has enacted laws easing gun access, does not have a “red flag” law that might prevent individuals deemed dangerous…

Texas Governor Greg Abbott rejects President Biden’s calls for stricter gun control, arguing that cities like Chicago and New York, with stringent regulations, continue to experience high rates of gun violence. He emphasizes that Texas, despite its more relaxed gun laws, sees less frequent mass shootings compared to these urban centers, suggesting that increased regulations are not an effective solution to the issue. During recent discussions, Abbott pointed out that the statistics do not support the notion that more laws equate to more safety. His remarks come amid ongoing debates about gun legislation in the wake of recurrent mass shootings…

Gun control advocates and members of the far-right Proud Boys group confront each other outside the NRA’s annual conference in Houston, escalating tensions just four days after a devastating school shooting in Texas. Local law enforcement intervenes to manage the escalating situation as both sides express their entrenched views on gun rights and regulation. This clash highlights the persistent divide in American society regarding gun control, particularly in the aftermath of tragic incidents involving firearms. With the backdrop of an NRA event, the protest underscores the ongoing national debate about the Second Amendment and public safety, sparking interest and concern…

Montana Fish and Wildlife Commissioners unveil proposed amendments to the 2026/2027 hunting regulations, signaling potential shifts in policy that could impact wildlife management and hunting practices statewide. The detailed proposals incorporate feedback from stakeholders, aiming to balance conservation efforts with the preferences of local hunters. Among the notable changes suggested are adjustments to deer and elk quotas and the introduction of new rules to enhance safety measures during hunting seasons. These considerations come as the state faces increasing challenges in wildlife population management and habitat protection, prompting many to ponder the implications for both game species and outdoor enthusiasts. Read…

In the two weeks following the Texas school shooting, more than 700 people have been shot dead in the United States across 43 states. According to the Gun Violence Archive, over 650 incidents have contributed to at least 730 fatalities since May 24, including 23 children and 66 teenagers, underscoring the urgent need for lawmakers to address the escalating gun violence crisis. This alarming trend continues to unfold, with 34 mass shooting incidents reported in 17 states during the same period, resulting in 161 injuries and 35 deaths. As Congress prepares to hear testimonies from survivors and the parents of…

Sun Silver’s Maverick Springs project in Nevada is positioned for significant growth after the U.S. government lists silver as a critical mineral, highlighting its industrial applications. With the recent surge in silver prices reaching a nominal record of $54.48 per ounce, the project’s resource has expanded from 292 million ounces to 480 million ounces since its IPO in 2024. The critical mineral designation opens doors for potential government funding, aiming to bolster domestic production amid rising demand and supply challenges. Additionally, recent assays suggest a promising presence of antimony, another strategic mineral, which could further enhance the project’s value. With…

A coalition of local advocacy groups in Natchez is organizing a community rally on November 29 to address the alarming rise in gun violence. Titled “Stop Gun Violence,” the event will feature inspirational speakers and aims to promote unity while supporting affected families in the region. The rally will take place at 11 a.m. at 408 MLK Street, near Zippy’s, and will offer free grilled hot dogs and hamburgers. Organizer Jackie Marsaw emphasizes that the gathering seeks to encourage residents to “put the guns down” and foster a sense of solidarity in the community. With gun violence profoundly impacting families,…