Barbara Maranzani
Barbara Maranzani is a NY-based writer and editor, focusing on American and European history.
MORE FROM THIS AUTHOR
How Nina Simone Used Her Performances For Activism
The musician used her voice and songs to support the civil rights movement and speak out about crimes against Black people in America.
How Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Childhood Inspired 'In the Heights'
Hailing from in New York City's Inwood neighborhood, Miranda celebrated his upbringing in his first Broadway musical turned 2021 movie.
Yuri Kochiyama and Malcolm X's Boundary-Breaking Friendship
The two activist forged an unlikely bond in the 1960s while fighting for racial equality.
10 Things You May Not Know About 'Sister Act'
From the famous actress originally slated to lead the movie to a possible third film, here are some facts about the convent comedies starring Whoopi Goldberg.
10 Things You May Not Know About 'The Devil Wears Prada'
From the surprising people Meryl Steep based her character on to the actress the studio originally wanted for Anne Hathaway's role, here are some facts about the 2006 movie.
10 Things You May Not Know About the 'Back to the Future' Trilogy
From who was originally cast as Marty McFly to why Crispin Glover isn't in the sequels, here are some facts about the films starring Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd.
Ernest Hemingway: How Mental Illness Plagued the Writer and His Family
The author, who committed suicide at the age of 61, often struggled – like several other members of his family.
10 Things You May Not Know About 'The Golden Girls'
From the actresses that switched roles to on-set squabbles, here are some facts about the classic sitcom starring Betty White, Bea Arthur, Rue McClanahan and Estelle Getty.
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10 Things You May Not Know About 'The Godfather' Trilogy
Here are some facts about the award-winning movies centered around the fictional Corleone crime family.
10 Things You May Not Know About 'The Wolf of Wall Street'
From which actor almost played Leonardo DiCaprio's character to discrepancies between real life and the movie, here are some facts about the 2013 film about Jordan Belfort.
The Unlikely Friendship of Eleanor Roosevelt and Mary McLeod Bethune
The first lady and activist came from drastically different backgrounds but bonded over their mutual belief in the power of education and desire to champion civil rights causes.
Inside Kamala Harris’ Early Years and Multicultural Upbringing
The vice president, primarily raised by her Indian mother, was taught to embrace her diverse heritage, creating values that paved the way for the boundary-breaking politician.
Inside the Long-Forgotten JFK Inaugural Gala
The 1961 Kennedy soiree, filled with Hollywood elite like Frank Sinatra, mirrored the racial tensions that plagued the nation.
The True Story Behind 'Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom'
The "Mother of Blues" takes center stage in August Wilson's tale about the African American experience in 1927.
Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth II: The Tumultuous Relationship Between the Royals
While the queen welcomed her future daughter-in-law with open arms, their relationship quickly soured, thanks, in part, to Diana's crumbling marriage to Prince Charles.
How Mark Twain’s Childhood Influenced His Literary Works
The writer found constant inspiration from his hometown of Hannibal and the people he met along the way.
Was King Arthur Real?
Many believe the Celtic hero was a real person, while others think his origin story is just a legendary tale that has evolved over time.
Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr Uncharacteristically Joined Forces During America's First Tabloid Murder Trial
Putting their differences aside, the politicians worked together on the defense team for Levi Weeks, who was accused of murdering Elma Sands in 1799.
Why Rock Hudson’s Decision to Come Out Marked a Turning Point of the Aids Epidemic
The actor was beloved by millions, but he had to live a double life, concealing his sexuality to secure his career.
Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr's Deadly Rivalry
The pair's contentious relationship began in the early days of American politics and ended in a duel that took Hamilton's life.
12 Presidential Nicknames and Their Unusual Origins
From “Honest Abe” and “Tricky Dick” to the “Great Sphinx," these monikers revealed what the people really thought about these United States leaders.
The Troubled Marriage of Catherine the Great and Peter III
Loveless since the start of their arranged union, the Russian rulers were ultimately torn apart by a coup that brought Catherine to the throne.
Algonquin Round Table: How the Group of Writers Became a Symbol of the Roaring Twenties
After the end of World War I, the collection writers and critics met at New York City’s Algonquin Hotel for a “10-year lunch” that epitomized the glamour and excitement of the decade.
Queen Elizabeth's Surprising Military Role in World War II
As the second World War raged, then-Princess Elizabeth rallied to the cause and enlisted in the military, helping boost the morale of the British people.