Question 1: How many paintings did Vincent van Gogh sell during his lifetime?
Question 2: The Beatles originated in which city in England?
The Beatles formed in Liverpool in 1960 and consisted of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. The city is now both a UNESCO World Heritage site and a UNESCO City of Music, in part because of its strong association with The Beatles.
Question 3: In which Shakesperian play would you find a character saying the famous line, "To be or not to be, that is the question"?
This famous line is spoken by the character Hamlet in Shakespeare's play "Hamlet," during his soliloquy in Act 3, Scene 1. The line is often cited as one of the most recognizable lines in English literature.
Question 4: If an Australian federal election results in no clear majority, what is the term used for the situation?
In a hung parliament, no single party has an outright majority of seats. In this scenario, parties must negotiate and form a coalition government or secure confidence and supply agreements to pass legislation and remain in power.
Question 5: When was the first Australian-produced feature film released?
The first Australian-produced feature film was "The Story of the Kelly Gang", released in 1906. It was both a commercial and critical success and paved the way for the Australian film industry.
Question 6: Why do people in Spain have the tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight on New Year's Eve?
This tradition, known as "Las Doce Uvas de la Suerte," dates back to 1909. The idea is to eat one grape for each chime of the clock, symbolizing good fortune for the 12 months ahead.
Question 7: Who won the Best Actor Oscar in the 1960s for their role in "To Kill a Mockingbird"?
Gregory Peck played the iconic role of lawyer Atticus Finch in the 1962 film adaptation of Harper Lee's novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird." Peck received critical acclaim for his performance and the film remains a classic in American cinema.
Question 8: Why do kangaroos often appear to be boxing each other?
Kangaroos engage in this activity, also called "sparring," as a means to establish dominance and access to resources, mainly among males. The act typically involves kicking, grappling with their forearms, and standing upright "boxing" one another.
Question 9: The Trolley Problem is an ethical dilemma commonly attributed to which philosopher?
The Trolley Problem, first introduced by British philosopher Philippa Foot in 1967, challenges our understanding of moral principles and highlights the dilemmas of consequentialism and utilitarianism.
Question 10: When was the first electronic computer invented?
The first electronic computer, known as the Colossus, was invented by British engineer Tommy Flowers in 1943. It was designed to break encrypted messages used by the Axis powers during World War II.
Vincent van Gogh sold only one painting during his lifetime, titled "The Red Vineyard." Despite his lack of commercial success, he is now regarded as one of the most influential painters in history.