The assassination of Mahatma Gandhi left people stunned. Learn about the life, teachings, and assassination of Gandhi with Ira Riklis. Born October 2, 1869, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was the son of a deeply religious mother who brought him up in the ways of Jainism, a religion of India that promoted non-violence. His father was an... Read More

James Joyce struggled to become a recognized writer in his early career. After the release of Ulysses, his career skyrocketed, allowing him success and recognition not only for the content of his works, but his unique, new styles of writing. Learn more about Joyce as Ira Riklis delves into his life, career, and death. Early... Read More

Eva Perón was born Maria Eva Ibarguren on May 7, 1919, to Juan Duarte and Juana Ibarguren. The youngest of the family, she grew up at a time of political and social unrest in Argentina. Eva would eventually become more than a radio show host and actress. She became the voice of many people and... Read More

TIME Magazine selects an annual Person of the Year, whether man, woman or group or a concept deemed the most influential over the last one-year period. Ira Riklis discovers the history of the annual Person of the Year, details about decisions and controversial faces gracing the cover of TIME as Person of the year. TIME... Read More

Charles Dickens wrote several novels beloved worldwide, rising to fame at a young age. Many people know his famous works, but likely not much about the man himself. Discover the man behind the novels, including “A Christmas Carol,” and his love of Christmas. Enjoy some of his famous quotes and facts about his life in... Read More

Christmastime in New York City is magical and the centerpiece of that magic is the breathtaking Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. You can feel the excitement in the air as hundreds of people crowd the sidewalk that overlooks the famous Rockefeller Plaza skating rink and the tree that is in the center. Flashes from cameras... Read More

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade delights millions of families and children of all ages every Thanksgiving Day. Ira Riklis describes the history of the famous annual parade and some fun facts including details about some of the balloons that help make the parade a cherished part of the holiday season. The First Macy’s Holiday Parades... Read More

When The Sound of Music soared into popularity, becoming an all-time great, it took Broadway and the movie industry by storm. However, many fans likely do not know that multiple inaccuracies exist between Broadway and Hollywood versions and the actual story and events. Ira Riklis uncovers some of the truths behind the real story behind... Read More

In spite of the name, there is little that is morbid about death masks. In many historical traditions and cultures, death masks are simply a part of the mourning or funeral processes. Ira Riklis looks into the history of this culturally important tradition. Consider ancient Egypt, for example. The Egyptians You are probably familiar with... Read More

Can you tell me how to get, how to get to Sesame Street? No doubt, you sang that in your head. Sesame Street, one of America’s longest-running children’s programs, has affected many during its 40+-year run. Few can claim to be untouched by the show that continues to teach kids the alphabet and how to... Read More