Michael Jackson’s second solo album, Thriller, propelled him to superstardom. Along with its title track, Thriller boasted such hits as “Beat It,” “Billie Jean,” “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” and “Human Nature.” Several of these songs were accompanied by music videos—then a new medium—and showcased Jackson’s iconic dance moves. The album sold more than 40 million copies and won a record-breaking eight Grammy Awards. What other titles were considered for the song “Thriller”? Discuss
Month: November 2022
Sir Winston Churchill (1874)
Churchill was prime minister of the UK during World War II and led the country through both its darkest and finest hours. He was a writer, artist, legislator, soldier, and one of the most influential leaders in modern history. After being appointed prime minister in 1940, he forged a strong alliance with the US and an uneasy one with the USSR. These alliances were two key factors in the defeat of the Axis Powers. A prolific painter, Churchill exhibited his art under what pseudonym? Discuss
an honest buck
Honest, legal work or income. Often used in the phrase “make/earn an honest buck.” Primarily heard in US. Watch the video
American Chinese Food
The Chinese immigrants who brought their cuisine to the US in the 19th century soon modified their cooking for Western tastes and ingredients. Today, “American Chinese food” differs greatly from authentic Chinese cuisine. One of the many differences is the types of vegetables used; Chinese cuisine relies on leafy greens like bok choy and gai-lan, while Americanized dishes often feature more readily available produce like broccoli and carrots. What is the origin of the fortune cookie? Discuss
frowzy
Japan's Meiji Constitution Goes into Effect (1890)
In the mid-19th century, Japan was forced to end its isolation by signing a series of unequal treaties that gave Western nations special privileges in Japan. The unpopular Tokugawa shogunate collapsed soon after and, in 1868, the boy emperor Meiji was “restored” to power. The Meiji constitution defined Japan as a capable, modern nation deserving of Western respect while preserving its own power. What did Ito Hirobumi, who drafted the Meiji constitution, do to prepare himself for the task? Discuss
International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People
In 1977, the General Assembly of the United Nations declared November 29 International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. On December 1, 2000, the Assembly reaffirmed the UN’s responsibility to work towards the peaceful creation of a Palestinian homeland and lauded those countries that observed the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. Discuss
Jacques Chirac (1932)
Chirac, a French political leader, was president of France from 1995 to 2007, served twice as prime minister, and was the mayor of Paris for nearly two decades. As president, he sought to reduce unemployment, cut the deficit, and strengthen ties with Germany. In the early 2000s, Chirac was implicated in a number of corruption scandals, and, in 2011, he was convicted on corruption charges. In 2002, Chirac survived an attempt on his life during celebrations of what French national holiday? Discuss
home sweet home
An expression of pleasure or relief upon returning to one’s home, especially after an extended period away from it. Watch the video
Guide Dogs
Guide dogs are service dogs that have been specially trained to help the visually impaired safely navigate their environments. The first school for guide dogs was established by the German government after World War I to provide service dogs to blinded veterans. Schools now exist in several European countries and in the US, where the pioneer Seeing Eye, Inc., founded by Dorothy Harrison Eustis in 1929, is one of the best known. What breeds are most frequently trained to be guide dogs? Discuss