A Decade of Difference (2) Trivia Quiz

James Joyce (1882-1941) was an Irish writer and key figure in modernist literature. Born in Dublin, Ireland, Joyce is renowned for his innovative approach to storytelling. His major works include "Dubliners" (1914), a collection of short stories depicting Irish life, and the groundbreaking novel "Ulysses" (1922), which unfolds in a single day in Dublin, employing experimental narrative techniques. Joyce's semi-autobiographical novel "A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man" (1916) explores the intellectual and emotional growth of its protagonist, Stephen Dedalus.

Haile Selassie (1892-1975) was an Ethiopian emperor who played a significant role in his country's history. Born Tafari Makonnen in Ejersa Goro, Ethiopia, he became regent in 1916 and later assumed the throne as Emperor Haile Selassie I in 1930. A key figure in resisting Italian invasion during the Second Italo-Ethiopian War (1935-1936), he became a symbol of African independence and resistance to colonialism.

After Ethiopia was occupied, Selassie went into exile but returned in 1941 when the country was liberated. He worked to modernize Ethiopia, implementing social and economic reforms. However, his rule faced challenges, including a coup in 1974 that led to his deposition. His legacy remains complex, with some viewing him as a national hero and others critiquing his leadership.

Charles Lindbergh (1902-1974) was an American aviator and military officer best known for his historic solo non-stop flight across the Atlantic Ocean. Born in Detroit, Michigan, Lindbergh gained international fame on May 20-21, 1927, when he flew his single-engine plane, the Spirit of St. Louis, from New York to Paris. This achievement marked the first solo transatlantic flight, covering approximately 3,600 miles in 33.5 hours.

Lindbergh's accomplishment earned him the Orteig Prize and widespread acclaim. Despite his aviation success, Lindbergh's later years were marred by controversy, as he became involved in isolationist and anti-Semitic political views. Nevertheless, his pioneering flight remains a milestone in aviation history.

Alan Turing (1912-1954) was a British mathematician, logician, and computer scientist known for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of computer science and artificial intelligence. Born in London, Turing played a crucial role in breaking German codes during World War II, contributing significantly to Allied efforts. After the war, he developed the concept of the Universal Turing Machine, a theoretical device that laid the foundation for modern computer architecture. Despite his influential contributions, Turing faced persecution for his homosexuality, which was criminalized in the UK at the time. Tragically, he died in 1954 from cyanide poisoning in an apparent suicide.

Betty White (1922-2021) was an American actress and television personality who enjoyed a remarkable career spanning several decades. Born in Oak Park, Illinois, White gained prominence in the 1950s with her role on the television sitcom "Life with Elizabeth," earning her the first of her many accolades.

She continued to make significant contributions to the entertainment industry with successful shows like "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and "The Golden Girls." White was widely admired for her comedic timing, versatility, and enduring popularity.

In addition to her acting career, she was a passionate animal rights advocate and philanthropist.

V.S. Naipaul (1932-2018) was a Trinidadian-British writer known for his significant contributions to literature. Naipaul moved to England for his education and later established himself as a prominent novelist and essayist. He gained international acclaim for works like "A House for Mr Biswas" (1961), which explored the complexities of post-colonial identity. Naipaul received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2001 for his vast body of work that delves into themes of colonialism, identity, and the human condition.

Despite his literary achievements, Naipaul was a controversial figure, criticized for his viewpoints and statements on various social and political issues.

Paul McCartney, born on June 18, 1942, is an English musician and songwriter, best known as a member of the iconic rock band The Beatles. McCartney, alongside John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, played a pivotal role in the success and cultural impact of The Beatles during the 1960s. McCartney's songwriting partnership with Lennon produced numerous hit songs, contributing to the band's unparalleled success.

After The Beatles disbanded in 1970, McCartney continued his musical career as a solo artist and formed the band Wings. Over the years, he has released numerous albums, earning critical acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards.

Born on June 18, 1952, in Rome, Italy, Isabella Rossellini is an accomplished actress and model. She is the daughter of acclaimed actress Ingrid Bergman and film director Roberto Rossellini. Isabella gained international recognition for her work in films such as "Blue Velvet" (1986) and "Crime of the Century" (1996). Additionally, she became the face of Lancôme, serving as their spokesperson for many years. Rossellini has received critical acclaim for her performances in both film and television.

Steve Irwin (1962-2006) was an Australian wildlife expert, conservationist, and television personality. Born on February 22, 1962, in Melbourne, Australia, Irwin gained global fame as the enthusiastic host of the wildlife documentary series "The Crocodile Hunter." His show, which premiered in 1996, showcased Irwin's passion for wildlife and his fearless approach to interacting with dangerous animals, particularly crocodiles.

He played a key role in promoting wildlife conservation and education, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural habitats. Tragically, Steve Irwin died on September 4, 2006, after a fatal encounter with a stingray while filming a documentary in the Great Barrier Reef.

Born on March 6, 1972, in Newark, New Jersey, Shaquille O'Neal is a retired American professional basketball player and sports analyst. Standing at 7 feet 1 inch tall and weighing over 300 pounds during his playing career, Shaq, as he is commonly known, became one of the most dominant centers in NBA history. O'Neal played for six NBA teams, most notably the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, and Miami Heat. Throughout his career, he won four NBA championships (three with the Lakers and one with the Heat) and earned numerous accolades, including three NBA Finals MVP awards.