A Decade of Difference (2) Trivia Quiz

Born in Dublin in 1882, James Joyce became one of the central figures of modernist literature. His writing is known for experimenting with structure and perspective, often moving away from straightforward narration.

"Dubliners" (1914), a collection of short stories, focuses on everyday life in Ireland, while "A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man" (1916) follows Stephen Dedalus from his strict Catholic school upbringing through his growing rejection of religion and decision to pursue a life as a writer. Joyce pushed even further with "Ulysses" (1922), a novel set over a single day in Dublin that uses stream-of-consciousness and shifting narrative styles.

Haile Selassie, born Tafari Makonnen in 1892, rose to power first as regent in 1916 and later as emperor of Ethiopia in 1930. His reign included the Italian invasion of 1935, when Fascist Italy occupied Ethiopia after a series of military campaigns.

After going into exile, he returned in 1941 when Ethiopia was liberated. During his rule, he introduced reforms aimed at modernization, though not without resistance. His leadership ended in 1974 with a coup, leaving behind a legacy that is still debated.

In May 1927, Charles Lindbergh completed a solo flight from New York to Paris, covering about 3,600 miles (5,800 kilometers) in roughly 33.5 hours. Flying the Spirit of St. Louis, he became the first person to complete a nonstop solo transatlantic journey.

The flight brought him immediate global recognition and the Orteig Prize. Later in life, however, his involvement in isolationist politics and controversial views complicated his public reputation, even as his aviation achievement remained widely recognized.

Alan Turing, born in London in 1912, made foundational contributions to mathematics and computer science. During World War II, he worked on breaking German encryption systems, significantly aiding Allied efforts.

After the war, he developed the concept of the Universal Turing Machine, a theoretical model that underpins modern computing. Despite this work, he was prosecuted for homosexuality, which was illegal in Britain at the time. He died in 1954 from cyanide poisoning, widely considered a suicide.

Betty White's career stretched across decades, beginning with early television work in the 1950s. She gained recognition through shows like "Life with Elizabeth," followed by major roles in "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and "The Golden Girls."

Born in 1922, she became known for her comedic timing and adaptability across formats. Beyond acting, she supported animal welfare causes and participated in philanthropic work.

V.S. Naipaul, born in Trinidad in 1932, later moved to England, where he built his literary career. His writing often focused on postcolonial societies, identity, and displacement.

"A House for Mr Biswas" (1961) follows Mohun Biswas, a struggling man in Trinidad who spends years moving between relatives' homes and poorly built houses. In 2001, he received the Nobel Prize in Literature. At the same time, his public statements and perspectives drew criticism, adding complexity to his legacy.

Paul McCartney, born in 1942, became internationally known as a member of the Beatles. Alongside John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, he helped define the band's sound and influence during the 1960s.

After the group disbanded in 1970, he continued recording as a solo artist and formed Wings. His career includes numerous albums and multiple Grammy Awards, with songs like "Band on the Run" and "Live and Let Die" remaining widely performed and recognized.

Isabella Rossellini, born in Rome in 1952, comes from a film background as the daughter of Ingrid Bergman and Roberto Rossellini. She built her own career as both an actress and a model.

Her film work includes roles in "Blue Velvet" (1986) and "Crime of the Century" (1996). In addition, she served as a longtime spokesperson for Lancôme, combining work in film and fashion.

Steve Irwin, born in 1962 in Australia, became widely known through "The Crocodile Hunter," a television series that began in 1996. The show featured his direct, hands-on approach to wildlife, especially in handling crocodiles.

His work emphasized conservation and education, encouraging protection of natural habitats. In 2006, he died after being struck by a stingray while filming in the Great Barrier Reef.

Standing 7 ft 1 in (216 cm) tall and weighing over 300 pounds (136 kg) during his career, Shaquille O'Neal became one of the most dominant centers in NBA history. He played for several teams, including the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, and Miami Heat.

He won four NBA championships and earned three Finals MVP awards. After retiring, he remained active as a sports analyst and media personality.