In the fall of 2014, thousands of protesters took part in the Umbrella Revolution to fight for more democratic representation in Hong Kong. Now, the movement is biding its time and trying to figure out its next move.
Author Archives: Anita Hacker
Does Fiction Have the Power to Sway Politics?
Two writers argue that works of fiction can trigger political change, sometimes directly, but more often, indirectly. Upton Sinclair, author of The Jungle, is one example.
Kenya’s running champions walk 800km to break ‘cycle of violence’
In an effort to end raids in which pastoralists kill people and steal livestock, top Kenyan athletes plan to undertake a three-week walk for peace. Funds raised will go toward peace-building programs for youth.
On front porches, some still divided on Confederate flag
This article from a Charleston, South Carolina, newspaper outlines conflicting views on the Confederate flag.
Lincoln and Douglass Shared Uncommon Bond
In this interview, John Stauffer, author of the book Giants: The Parallel Lives of Frederick Douglass and Abraham LIncoln, discusses the two men’s friendship and their mutual respect for each other.
My Day One: From the Streets of Lahore to the Heart of Texas
In honor of the second annual Immigrant Heritage Month, the White House is inviting people to share their immigrant stories on its blog. In this one, a woman gains a new outlook after learning about her parents’ history, which wasn’t often talked about in their household.
Why the Story of Cinderella Endures and Resonates
The story of Cinderella has been told for centuries. James Deutsch, a professor of folklore, explains why Americans are particularly drawn to the tale.
Why we quoth ‘The Raven’ evermore
Editor Ron Charles critiques a new book about Edgar Allan Poe and ponders over the writer’s popularity with audiences and his scorn from academics.
What Are The Dangers Of A Single Story?
In this radio interview, author Chimamanda Adichie discusses the benefits of hearing stories from multiple points of views. Her original TED Talk on the subject is also included.
Food: How Altered?
Learn more about genetically-engineered food in this article of frequently asked questions.
Jonathan Swift Biography
Jonathan Swift, the 18th-century Irish writer and satirist, worked in many professions and eventually became a man of some influence.
The Food that Fueled the American Revolution
Today we celebrate Independence Day with backyard barbecues of hot dogs and hamburgers, but the soldiers who fought for our freedom in the American Revolution got by on very little.
12 Immigrants Who Came To America With Nothing And Made A Fortune
Read about 12 immigrants who achieved their American dreams.
Surprising responses to Hamlet Africa tour
Researchers record the reactions of audiences in Africa to a production of Hamlet by a Shakespeare Globe theater troupe.
Happiness Is Not Only an Individual Matter
Psychologist Paul Dolan argues that making societal improvements will improve individuals’ happiness.
Anna Kendrick’s ‘Indianna Jones’: Should a woman don the fedora for real?
Read about Hollywood’s recent trend of casting women in roles made famous by men, including in the re-make of the 1980s blockbuster Ghostbusters.
Arthur Miller Biography
Read about the life of Arthur Miller, who used his dealings with the House of Un-American Activities Committee as inspiration for The Crucible.
4 Bloody Family Feuds in American History
History is full of family feuds that have led to acts of revenge ranging from lawsuits to murder.
U.S. Immigration Since 1965
The Immigration and Naturalization Act of 1965 eliminated the existing quota system and resulted in an increasingly diverse demographic.
The Sharpened Quill
An outcast among the other Founding Fathers, Thomas Paine lived a fascinating life and sought to reach a wide audience through his writing.