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Hard Trivia Questions for Your Next Game Night

People love trivia, that’s just a fact. That explains the popularity of long-running shows like Jeopardy or Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, and countless volumes of trivia books. Despite its close relationship to "trivial," trivia can be of great importance, particularly to those who love nothing more than to challenge -- and, ideally, beating -- their friends in battles of knowledge. And for that, they require hard trivia questions for the next big game night. RELATED: Do the 36 Questions Really Lead to Love? But how do you plan the best trivia night for your friends? You come up with the best trivia questions, and difficult trivia questions definitely rank among them. Note, however, that doesn't mean the hardest trivia questions. It’s remarkably easy to come up with dozens of hard trivia questions that require knowledge too obscure to answer -- or to be any fun. We’ll share a few examples of bad trivia questions below for reference. One secret to creating great (and fun) trivia questions that aren't too challenging is to come up with ones that can have more than one correct answer. That way, you allow people to plumb the depths of their knowledge, and find not only the right answer but also enjoy that boost of self-confidence that comes with getting it right. And really, when you’re having a trivia night with friends, isn’t that more important than stumping everyone? If you agree with that sentiment, then, by all means, avoid questions like those found in the first segment Skip ahead: Hard Trivia Questions About American History Hard Trivia Questions About Geography Hard Trivia Questions About The Human Body Hard Trivia Questions About Sports Hard Trivia Questions About World War II Hard Trivia Questions About Everything Else! Examples of Bad Trivia Questions for Your Game NightKangchenjunga, the world's third-highest mountain, by Noor Salim on Unsplash Here are five examples of trivia questions that are too difficult to be considered fun. Why? Because they are almost surely unanswerable by most players. Thus, they risk leaving people feeling as if they came up short. RELATED: Truth or Dare Questions for Your Next Game Night 1. What is the capital of Togo? (It’s Benin, but unless players have prepared specifically for geography, this is probably too obscure.) 2. What is the third-tallest mountain on Earth? (It’s Kangchenjunga, in the Himalayas, in the border region between Nepal and India. However, almost no one is going to readily answer that.) 3. What is the 10th decimal digit of pi? (It’s 5, but people who can recite pi to 3.14159, a standard number of digits recalled, will feel they perhaps should have known.) 4. Who was Teddy Roosevelt’s first lady? (It was Edith Kermit Carow Roosevelt, but this is a “gotcha” question, because it's rather obscure, and because she wasn't his first wife.) 5. Name five former U.S. secretaries of state. (There are plenty to name, but this question asks for too many responses to be much fun!) Now, let’s move on to some great hard trivia questions. Hard Trivia Questions About American HistoryThe Lincoln Memorial photo by Pixabay from Pexels These questions have a single correct answer. Plus, U.S. history is a subject in which most American citizens can be expected to have at least some grounding. RELATED: 101 Deep Questions to Ask Your Boyfriend, Girlfriend or Partner 1. What is the oldest European-founded city in the United States? (St. Augustine, Florida, founded in 1565) 2. Name all four U.S. presidents who were assassinated while in office. (Abraham Lincoln, James Garfield, William McKinley and John F. Kennedy) Ford Model T photo by Matthew Lancaster on Unsplash 3. In which war did the most Americans die? (the American Civil War, in which an estimated 620,000 men, or 2 percent of the U.S. population at the time, lost their lives) 4. In what year did the first Ford Model T sell? (1908) 5. Who was the first U.S. president to appear on television? (Franklin Delano Roosevelt, on April 30, 1939, during the opening session of the New York World's Fair) 6. What does the middle initial "S" stand for in U.S. President Harry S. Truman's name? (This is a little tricky. Truman had no middle name. His parents gave him the middle initials as a compromise to honor both grandfathers, Anderson Shipp Truman and Solomon Young) Hard Trivia Questions About GeographyMount Whitney, in California. Photo by Nico on Unsplash Most of these have multiple correct responses, which is a great way to make a hard trivia question a bit easier to field. And it's more fun for a wider group of participants. RELATED: 100 of the Best Questions to Ask People to Get to Know Them 1. In what state is the tallest mountain in the continental United States? (California) 2. Name two of the five deepest points in the world’s oceans. (Mariana Trench, Puerto Rico Trench/Milwaukee Deep, Java Trench, South Sandwich Trench, Molloy Hole) 3. Name five countries whose names begin with the letter G. (Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana) 4. What is tallest mountain in Australia? (Mount Kosciuszko) 5. What is the longest river in Europe? (Volga) 6. Which country's flag features a dragon? (Three possible answers: Bhutan, Malta or Wales) Hard Trivia Questions About the Human BodyPhoto by Nhia Moua on Unsplash These questions can be fun with players of different ages. Kids often will know more about the human body than adults do, because they more recently learned about it. RELATED: The Most Powerful Questions to Ask Your Partner to Connect on a Deeper Level 1. Name the three bones found in the inner ear. (Hammer, anvil, stirrup) 2. How many total chromosomes does a human cell have? (46 – 23 pairs, but 26 total) 3. What is the second-biggest organ in the human body? (Liver) 4. Name four types of bone found below your pelvis. (Femur, patella, tibia, fibula, tarsals, metatarsals, phalanges) 5. Does an average head of full hair have about 1,000, 7,500, 10,000 or 15,000 hairs? (10,000) Hard Trivia Questions About SportsPhoto by Prapoth Panchuea on Unsplash These questions mostly have single answers, as statistics are such an important part of sports. RELATED: You’re Making Friends Wrong – Here’s How to Do It Right 1. Which sport is older, basketball or American football? (Football) 2. In which decade was baseball’s first perfect game thrown? (1880s) 3. Name five positions on a soccer/football team. (Goalkeeper, sweeper, center back, full back, defensive midfielder, central midfielder, attacking midfielder, wing back, winger, striker, forward) 4. This Major League Baseball team (currently) has the second-most World Series wins. (Cardinals, 11) 5. Who (currently) holds the all-time point record in the National Basketball Association? (Kareem Abdul-Jabar, 38,387) 6. In which year was the first football World Cup held? (1930) Hard Trivia Questions About World War IIPhoto by Chandler Cruttenden on Unsplash What can we say? People love trivia about the Second World War. RELATED: Are You a Good Friend? These Tips Will Help You Become an Even Better One 1. On what day did Nazi Germany invade Poland? (Sept. 1, 1939) 2. Name three European countries that remained neutral during World War II. (Ireland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey) 3. On what date was victory declared in Europe? (May 8, 1945) 4. Name three types of American World War II fighter planes. (P-51 Mustang, P-47 Thunderbolt, P-38 Lightning, P-40 Warhawk, F4 Corsair, F6 Hellcat, P-63 Kingcobra, etc.) 5. What was the deadliest battle of World War II? (Battle of Stalingrad, with approximately 2 million casualties) Hard Trivia Questions About Everything Else!Image: Disney Sometimes, it's more fun to take a wide-open approach. So here are 10 more great trivia questions from all sorts of topic areas. RELATED: 6 Ways to Build New, Meaningful Friendships as an Adult 1. How many legs does a centipede have? (30) 2. Name one of the only African countries that were never colonized. (Ethiopia and Liberia) 3. How many humps does a dromedary camel have? (One) 4. Who was the youngest U.S. president ever? (Teddy Roosevelt, at 42) 5. In which decade were the first artificial Christmas trees manufactured? (1930s) 6. What is the hardest natural substance on Earth? (Diamond) 7. What is the best-selling album of all time? (Michael Jackson’s Thriller) 8. Who was the youngest British prime minister ever? (William Pitt the Younger, at 24) 9. What is the only mammal that is fully covered in scales? (Pangolin) 10. Who was the first Disney princess? (Snow White) KEEP READING: What Are Interesting Questions to Ask a Guy?

20 Funny Tweets That Hopefully Make You Laugh When Youre Sad
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20 Funny Tweets That Hopefully Make You Laugh When Youre Sad

They say laughter is the best medicine, (unless of course, you are getting a coronary artery bypass --then it's morphine). I am not a doctor (in fact I didn't even finish Grey's Anatomy, I had to quit when I realized Meredith Grey's kids were in university and Meredith herself was one more slip-in-the-shower away from needing to change her own bedpan). But what I lack in medical knowledge, I make up for by finding hilarious tweets and memes. Am I a hero? Maybe. In an insanely popular Twitter thread that has amassed over 194 MILLION VIEWS (?!) since being at the beginning of the week, one user (@Astronomikal1) on the social media platform decided to reach out into the black hole that is the Twittersphere to collect the funniest videos and jokes. Clearly, a bit of laughter is just what the doctor ordered --unless of course, you are experiencing chest contractions -- then you may be going into cardiac arrest and then laughter will not save you, it'll only hasten your downfall.But, if you need a quick pick-me-up and scrolling through the near-endless thread is too much for you to handle, we've put the 20 best together for your convenience. Kick your feet up and dive in -- you earned it. It's called fashion look it up Are you team Harry or William? When you learn a new dance move as a kid and want to show your whole family Third-wheeling your best friend and their kid be like He really thought he was Peter Parker The silence after “I’m not a cat” is so loud Spending quality time with your dad He hit his car on the highway and was really trying to leave Do you want the good news or bad news first? The force was absolutely not with this one The Bey-Hive nearly took Ashton out for this one The secret ingredient is cinnanaanminaminon When the healing monk is in the right place at the right time With great power comes great responsibility She definitely knew Two divorce-sized shots If you can't go to Bella Noche where can you go? Found footage of Drake wing-manning The Weeknd Mom took him to the parking lot for acting up He don't play Return to sender, stat What's the opposite of a hit-and-run? Put Grandma on aux for cousin Mauro's weddingAnd there you have it, friends! Dr. @Astronomikal1 (trained at the university of webMD has spoken). I'm just as confused by this sudden Grey's Anatomy fixation as you are ok?

Smarty Pants: 28 Fun, Interesting, and Random Facts About Everything
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Smarty Pants: 28 Fun, Interesting, and Random Facts About Everything

Why do human beings love trivia so much? According to experts, trivia can literally make us feel good. “Playing trivia games can provide a dopamine rush much like gambling, without the negative effects, says Healthline writer Lori Roniger, adding: “It can be quite satisfying and doesn't have many downsides. That's how psychologists describe the mental health benefits of trivia.”RELATED: 5 Interesting Facts Everyone Should Know – These Can Lead to Great ConversationsThere’s also a degree of social capital involved in knowing lots of fun facts.When you have a lot of interesting facts ready for quick recall, it can make for more interesting conversations that can make you more enjoyable to be around, and not just on trivia night, but on any day of the week. And then there is the fun of it all. Fun facts are just a pleasure to learn and share and heck, you might even learn a thing or two.From facts about animals to famous people to planet earth and beyond, we’ve got you covered with these 28 random facts that will fill your brain with interest. And dopamine.Fun Facts About Human Beings and Other AnimalsLet’s start off with fun facts about the human body and the bodies of our animal friends, because biology is pretty amazing. (And sometimes gross.)The Skin of Polar Bears Is BlackUnsplash/Hans Jurgen MagerSure, we think of these giant, fierce mammals as being all white save for those eyes and noses, but under their fur, these bears have dark black skin.Blue Whales Can Communicate with Each Other Across Hundreds of MilesUnsplash/Venti ViewsA blue whale’s “song” can be as loud as 188 decibels — louder than a jet engine — and can travel for hundreds of miles through the water.Sea Lions Can Go Deeper Than Any Scuba DiverUnsplash/Maura MikhailSea lions can dive down to depths of 450 feet, which is more than a hundred feet deeper than even the best-trained divers are supposed to reach.You Have More Bones in Your Hands and Feet Than in the Rest of Your BodyUnsplash/Owen BeardThe bones in your hands and feet add up to 106 bones in total, which means more than half of the bones in the entire adult skeletal system are in these extremities.Your Taste Buds Are “Refreshed” WeeklyUnsplash/Nicole ElliottHumans have an average of 4,000 taste buds on their tongues, and the receptor cells on taste buds are replaced about every seven to 10 days.The Elephant Is the Only Mammal That Cannot JumpUnsplash/Nam AnhThey can run pretty fast at 25 MPH, they can perform deft feats with their trunks, and of course, they never forget, but elephants cannot jump — at least one foot always remains on the ground.The Female Human Nose Is More Powerful Than a Male’sUnsplash/Engin AkyurtThe part of the brain that processes smell is, on average, 50% larger in women than it is in men.The Only Animal That Does Not Require Oxygen Is a Fish ParasiteUnsplash/Karyna PanchenkoAn eight-millimeter parasite called the Henneguya salminicola that infects certain types of salmon is the only known creature that requires no oxygen to live.A Shrimp's Heart Is in Its HeadUnsplash/Elle HughesThe heart of the shrimp is located in the head, evidently having evolved to be located as such due to the thickness of the protective exoskeleton around that body part.An Ostrich's Eye Is Bigger Than Its BrainUnsplash/Simon InfangerThe ostrich eye, which is five times large than a human eyeball, is larger than its brain, which is in fact considered underdeveloped.The Average Person Spends About 122 Days Asleep Each YearUnsplash/ShaneAssuming you get an average of eight hours of sleep each night, that’s 2,920 hours in a year, which is just under 122 days.Interesting Facts About Our WorldOur planet is a pretty amazing place, especially with all the amazing things we have built on certain parts of it through the ages.The Tallest Building on Earth is the Burj KhalifaUnsplash/Kuriakose JohnThere Have Been Over 130 Pyramids Found in Ancient EgyptBuilt in Dubai between 2004 and 2010, this true skyscraper is an astonishing 2,717 feet high, meaning it is just over half a mile in height.Unsplash/Osama ElsayedWe may think only of the impressive trio of pyramids at Giza, but in fact, at least 130 Egyptian pyramids are known, surely representing but a fraction of the totalThe Pacific Ocean Covers an Area of More Than 63 Million Square MilesUnsplash/Thomas VimareThe entire surface of the planet is about 197 million square miles, and the Pacific is responsible for the largest amount of that coverage by a large margin.The Eiffel Tower Was Supposed to Be Built in BarcelonaUnsplash/Denys NevozhaiThe eponymous designer of the famed Parisian landmark, Gustave Eiffel, first proposed building his tower in Barcelona, but the city rejected it as a likely eyesore.Those Iconic Stone Heads Have BodiesUnsplash/Thomas GriggsThe otherworldly dark stone heads for which Easter Island is famous are in fact perched atop huge bodies that have simply been covered up with soil over the years.The Empire State Building Was Erected in Less Than Two YearsUnsplash/Kit SumanIn fact, this iconic skyscraper, which was finished in 1931 and was the world’s tallest building until 1971, took just 20 months to build.Saint Lucia Is the Only Country in the World Named After a WomanUnsplash/Omar Eagle ClarkeThere are plenty of nations named after men, but at present only Saint Lucia is named for a woman, namely Saint Lucy of Syracuse.Delaware Is the Only US State Without Commercial Air ServiceUnsplash/Ivan ShimkoIf you want to visit the First State, you’ll need to drive, bike, walk, or hop on a train, because no commercial airlines fly there at present.There Are Now More Than Eight Billion People AliveUnsplash/Aleksandr PopovThe population of living humans is estimated to have surpassed eight billion in the closing weeks of the year 2022.Totally Random Facts Just for KicksSometimes, you just want a lot of fun trivia, categorization is not necessary. Let’s close out with these fun facts.One Man Has Set More Than 600 World RecordsUnsplash/Giorgio TrovatoThe record of all records. Ashrita Furman has set more than 600 official Guinness Records, thus holding the Guinness world record for the most Guinness world records.George Washington Was the Only President Not to Live in the White HouseUnsplash/Library of CongressThe executive mansion was not completed until near the end of Washington’s second term, thus he lived at his manor to the south, Mount Vernon.Twice as Many Civilians Died During World War II Than SoldiersUnsplash/Free Walking Tour SalzburgHardly a fun fact, but a real one — of the estimated 60 million deaths caused by the war, the majority of those who died were not combatants.The First Person to Have Reached 120 Years of Age Was Jeanna CalmentUnsplash/Danie FrancoShe lived from 1875 until 1997, reaching 122 years of age and she may well be the oldest person to have ever lived.There Is Only One Letter That Does Not Appear in Any State NameAnd that letter is Q. Even J and X and other more obscure letters are used.Unsplash/Mackenzie CruzOnly One Person Has Earned Two Unshared Nobel Prizes in Different CategoriesUnsplash/Anastacia DviLinus Pauling earned a Nobel Prize in chemistry in 1954 and then earned the Nobel Peace Prize in 1962.It Is Physically Impossible to Lick Your Own ElbowUnsplash/Lucaxx FreireOK, actually some people can do it, but we hope it was worth a laugh either way if you just tried.

24 Relatable Relationship Memes to Make You Fall In Love (Again) With Your Significant Other
Motivation

24 Relatable Relationship Memes to Make You Fall In Love (Again) With Your Significant Other

Romantic relationships are one of the greatest joys a person can experience in life. Having someone you love and who truly loves you back unconditionally is a gift, and a feeling that is hard to even put into words. RELATED: 22 Utterly Wholesome Memes to Restore Your Faith in HumanityEven if you're flying solo right now, these dating and marriage memes will still feel relatable and/or give you inspiration. Save them on your phone to send to your crush -- you never know what might happen! Of course, all relationships require work and can be very hard at times, especially if both people aren't sharing the load, but when you find that special person who loves you for you, something truly magical happens.The Others Don't Matter If You've Already Found 'The One'via BoredPandaSome Things Stay Special - No Matter How Often They Happenvia eBaum's WorldArguments Are Temporary - Love and Respect Are Forevervia KnowYourMemeFind Someone Who Cheers You on - No Matter Whatvia ImgurThe Best Feeling in the World Is Knowing How Loved You Arevia BoredPandaSharing Your Partner's Interests Can Help You Bond via MemeBaseWords on the Screen Can Fill Your Hearth with Warm and Joyvia BuzzfeedA Meme for Your Girlfriend on National Pi Day (3/14)via InstagramAbsence Makes the Heart Grow Strongervia BoredPandaSometimes You Gotta Let Them Know... Hands off!via RedditBeauty Is in the Eye of the Beholder and You Look Like a Snackvia @sgtjuju776A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words...via CheezcakeThe Evolution of a Relationship in One Honest Memevia BuzzfeedWhen You Find a Best Friend and Partner Who Just... Gets Youvia /r/WholesomememesCompromise Is Key to Making a Relationship Workvia MissamysantiagoKnowing Your Partner Cares Is All the Help You Needvia FandomSpotRemember the Importance of Your Relationship Origin Story via boredpandaThere are Moments In Life Where All You Need Is Your Partnervia PinterestNever Forget, They Chose You for a Reasonvia MematicThe Perfect Date Night Can Be a Bed, a Cuddle and a Showvia FunnyJunkLong Distance Relationships Can Be Tough - But Specialvia BoredPandaKeeping the Humor in a Relationship Keeps It Funvia ParksAndRecMemesActions Speak Louder Than Words in Relationshipsvia UpworthyThe Strongest Relationships Survive Despite Divisionsvia SomeEcardsKEEP READING:14 Celebrity Encounters That Will Change the Way You See Your Favorite Stars

The Sexy and Twisted Story of the Color Puce
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The Sexy and Twisted Story of the Color Puce

This is the story of a color named for fleas. That’s right, parasitic, blood-sucking fleas. See, puce is the French word for flea. Literally. In English, however, the color puce is as difficult to describe as it is to understand its origin. We’ll cover both before we’re done.RELATED: Aura Colors & Their Meanings: A Comprehensive GuidePuce, which rhymes with “goose," is essentially a shade of purple, or dark red, tinted with brown. (If you want to be technical, its hex code is #CC8899; its HTML color code is #7F5A58.) Yes, it’s a lovely… purplish-brown. At least most of the time. Depending upon where you're from, you may use "puce" to describe a color akin to pea soup. We're not talking about that color, though. We definitely mean the purple-brown one.OK, so maybe puce isn’t one of the aura colors. Maybe it’s not a great choice for entryway wallpaper, nor is it a favorite crayon shade. But briefly, about 250 years ago, it was wildly popular.Let’s talk about the history of the color first, before discussing its actual, well, color, as it’s a fascinating (and slightly disconcerting) history indeed.How Puce Became the High-Society 'It' Color of 1775Today, when a celebrity pops up wearing this or that pair of jeans, a specific brand of sunglasses, or a chic dress, it’s a sure bet that sales will get a bump. Two and a half centuries ago, in French high society, the leading “celebrities” of the day were royalty. And no one was a bigger influencer, so to speak, than the young queen, the ill-fated Marie Antoinette.RELATED: The Simpsons’ Popularity In China And Egypt Is A Shockingly Deep Lesson In Global UnityKnown for her outlandish hairstyles, huge, multi-layered dresses, lavish jewelry, and her grandiose sense of self, Marie Antoinette, wife of King Louis XVI, could and did set the fashion world of her day into a frenzy. Such it was with the color puce.Blame Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI for the Puce Color and NameAccording to The Awl, one day in early-summer 1775, the young queen donned a new dress made for her in a decidedly unusual color; indeed it was a color so new it didn’t even have a name. The name would come care of King Louis himself, who, upon seeing his fashion-forward wife in her new gown, exclaimed: “C’est puce!” So, Louis effectively said ... “Looks like a flea!”Now, if you have the stomach for it, go ahead and do an image search of a flea. Look specifically at the belly of one of the little parasites engorged from a meal. That meal, of course, will have been a mammal’s blood, and thus the belly will be a purplish-brown hue owing to the blood showing through the small flightless insect’s body. That unique hue is what Louis XVI referenced. (Flea-human interactions were much more common in the 18th century, even for royalty.)For the record, the king wasn't trying to insult his wife. In fact, calling someone “mapuce,” or “my flea” is a term of endearment in French. It's rather like calling someone a “honey bee” or “love bug” in English. And far from denigrating her new dress, the king praised it. Soon, court nobles had caught sight of the new shade, and within a matter of weeks the color puce had become one of the most popular shades in France. (Well, anywhere people had money to buy brand-new dyed clothing, at least.)Why Puce Was So Popular in the Summer of 1775Puce may have gotten its start because of Marie Antoinette (and her husband), but its popularityamong ladies in French society goes beyond that. It’s also explained by the fact that, in its “purest” form, puce is a dark, rich color. That meant it hid stains well. Thus, puce clothing required less-frequent laundering, looked newer and fresher longer, and would need replacing less often thangarments in other colors.Puce Fell Out of Fashion, But Not Out of CultureAnd while puce was initially associated with the highest order of royalty, it was, in fact, a less-expensive color to produce than many other shades, which was also welcome news to women oflesser means.Despite how popular puce became that summer of 1775, it also lost popularity as fast asparachute pants in the 1990s. By the autumn of 1775, it was out of style. But, as it happened, puce would never be gone from the collective vocabulary, the color now having been born.So, What Color Is Puce, Anyway?If you’re willing, go ahead and find an image of an engorged flea, because that brownish-purple color you’ll see in its belly really is a perfect shade of puce. Overall, it’s difficult to nail down this color, because people tend to play pretty loose with it.RELATED: Awaken the Fire Within: 5 Ways to Connect to Your Spiritual FlameOne brand may display a color much closer to pink and call it puce. Another will lean decidedly more purple. Some will have a more grayish undertone, be it pinkish or purplish, while others will have a browner coloration along with the purple. Or pink.We can never know for certain what Marie Antoinette’s dress looked like that summer of 1775given that color photography was still about 90 years away. But it’s safe to assume it was indeed a mix of purple and brown.What we do know is that, even in 1775, there was more than one shade going aroundcalled puce,. There was a deep, rich “ventre de puce” namedfor a flea’s sanguine belly. There was “cuisse de puce,” or flea thigh, which was more towardbrown. And there was “vielle puce,” or old flea, which referred to a slightly more faded puce.Now, flea belly, flea thigh and old flea may hardly seem strong selling points today, but theyworked 250 years ago, if only for a few months.KEEP READING:Is Google Sentient, Do Chatbots Have Souls – And Why Does Any of This Matter?

22 Utterly Wholesome Memes to Restore Your Faith in Humanity
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22 Utterly Wholesome Memes to Restore Your Faith in Humanity

Our world is a truly amazing place filled with all kinds of caring, compassionate, and inspiring people. Sometimes, however, the constant cycle of doom, gloom, tragedy and despair can make even the happiest of people lose their positive perspective and love for their fellow human beings. After all, it's not good for any of us to be constantly exposed to negativity, and we could all use a nice break from the normal chaos of life.To help you escape the darkness of the world, we wanted to bring you some positive stories and wholesome memes. So, we rounded up an extra large serving of positivity and feel-good stories to add some light to your day and remind you there is still good in the world.Doggo Meets the Newest Family Member and It's 100% Adorablevia imgurA Father-of-the-Bride Who Passed Away But Still Made His Daughter's Weddingvia ebaumsworldThe Happiest, Cutest Little Lamb - Just BecauseA Teacher Goes the Extra Mile for a Single-Mom Student in NeedRescued Elephants in India Get Snazzy Outfits from Local Villagersvia cheezburgerMike Tyson Gets 'Knocked Out' by a Little Mac CosplayerA Sweet Gift from a Former Middle Schooler to a Caring Stepdad via imgurHappy Rescue Dogs Who Love to Save Lives and Show It11-Year-Old Saves His Friend's Life and Proves Heroes Come in All Sizesvia GoodNewsDogHubby Fills a Treasure Chest with Love Notes for His Wife on Valentine's Dayvia eBaumsWorldHow an Unsung Hero Continues to Save Sea Turtlesvia Found36Homer Simpson's Message about Maggie Will Inspire All Dadsvia The SimpsonsSometimes a Small Gesture Can Mean Absolutely EverythingHenry Cavill Proves He's a Superman IRLHow a Tragic Motorcycle Accident Proved One Thing: Forgiveness is HealingBob Ross Was a Light in the Darkness for Many of UsHow a Disabled Man Became the Definition of Selflessnessvia SWNSWords of Wisdom to Make Your Relationship LastA Thankful Husband Expresses Gratitude with a Heartfelt Signvia boredpandaThere is Nothing Quite Like an "I Love You" From Your KidWise Words from a Tibetan Proverb that Still Resonate Todayvia Lessons Learned in LifeWhy Stan Lee, Mister Rogers, and Others Are Still Our Heroesvia Jacob OdomKEEP READING:Motivational Memes: Know Your Memes and Get Inspired, Too

All Night Long: Is Tantric Sex Right for You?
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All Night Long: Is Tantric Sex Right for You?

No matter how good your sex life is, you might wonder if it can get even better. The answer to that question is likely yes—and tantric sex can help you get there. This ancient spiritual and sexual practice is all about sensuality, intimacy, physical connection and awareness, and a deepening of pleasure. Even if you regularly have enjoyable sex, there are invariably ways to heighten pleasure, new things to discover, and levels of connection with yourself and your partner that you never dreamed of. This is the goal of practicing tantric sex. But is it for real? And can anyone do it?The good news is that the promise of tantric sex is accessible and available to all who wish to explore it—and that includes you. Trying tantric sex can sound intimidating, but once you try it, you’ll likely be hooked. Even better, tantric sex techniques can be practiced alone and with a partner. So, if you’re single or your significant other isn’t excited about pursuing tantric sexuality or you just want to explore a bit before sharing tantric sex with your special someone, you can try this sexual practice on your own. RELATED: These First Date Tips Will Pretty Much Guarantee a Second DateSo, don’t wait to practice tantric sex. In this comprehensive guide, learn what tantric sex is, what it is not, how to practice it, and tips for beginners. Then, have fun practicing the exciting, fulfilling spiritual and sensual art.Sex is a journey. It’s about the destination, sure, but also the adventure along the way that gets you there. Essentially, orgasms and straight-up sexual intercourse are great, obviously, but there is so much more to discover. This is where tantric sex comes in.What is Tantric Sex? (Getty)Tantric sex, which is also called spiritual yoga, is an ancient Eastern spiritual practice with roots in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Instructions for this sensual art were recorded in sacred texts known as the Tantras as far back as the sixth century. Tantric sex books are famous for including drawings of a seemingly limitless array of sexual positions, but this approach to sexual intimacy is about so much more.RELATED: 7 Dating Tips for IntrovertsTantra literally means woven together. And the true emphasis is just that—achieving heightened sexual pleasure and intimacy with your partner. Devotees of tantric sex often enjoy hours of enhanced sensuality, but also deepen their physical and spiritual awareness and relationship at the same time.There is also the practice of solo tantric sex, a way to become more intimate with your own body, in a way that allows you to better translate a healthy sensual relationship to intimate moments with a partner.Myths About Tantric Sex(Getty)It’s helpful to dispel some myths about tantric sex. First off, tantric sex is not just about having amazing orgasms, although you very likely will. Instead, many tantric traditions promote slowing down, getting in the moment, and fully experiencing the sensual and spiritual dynamic of each tantric sex session. In fact, orgasms aren’t the goal, just a potential by-product of spiritual yoga. Often people aim to go to the edge of orgasm and then back off in order to prolong sex and continue enjoying the experience.RELATED: 25+ Fun Date Ideas for Every RelationshipAnother myth about tantric sexuality is that you need to be a super flexible or athletic yogi or spiritual guru in order to engage in this erotic practice. Not true. All bodies, all minds, and all couples can explore tantric sex. Sure, some super bendy, toned bodies can get into complex or physically challenging tantric sex poses that most of us can’t even imagine attempting, but acrobatics and lasting all night aren’t essential—or even necessarily desired.The Benefits of Enjoying Tantric Sex With Your Partner(Getty)While the wow of the sexual part of a tantric sex practice is what gets most of the attention and allure, spiritual yoga is about so much more. Tantric techniques help you harness your sexual chemistry and develop a deeper connection to your partner and to yourself. This practice helps you use your sexual energy to explore pleasure as well as intimacy, sensuality, your bodies (yours and your partner’s), and your spirituality.RELATED: 100+ Questions to Ask a Girl You Have a Crush OnEssentially, enjoying tantric sex with your partner helps bring you closer as a couple as it improves your sex life—and it teaches you about yourself and each other, too. You can both discover more about your true desires, your physical bodies, your hearts, and your spirits. You’ll enhance your physical control and ability to experience (and surrender) to your feelings as you explore the depths, edges, limits, power, and beauty of your bodies, hearts, minds, and orgasms. Sounds amazing, right? Here’s how to get started.How to Start Exploring Tantric Sexuality With Exercises(Getty)Like yoga, tantric sex is a practice that you can access whether you’re a beginner or more advanced. And you can continually learn from and deepen your experience and ability. There is always more to discover, a greater connection to find with yourself and your partner, and heightened levels of intimacy, spiritual awareness, and pleasure to achieve.So, grab your partner’s hand (or your own) and begin exploring tantric sex. A new chapter in your erotic and spiritual life starts now. While tantric sex can be experienced in many different ways, if you’re a beginner it’s ideal to start with the basics. As you develop your practice, it may lead you to more complex tantric sex exercises, poses, and techniques.Set the Environment for PresenceTo begin, you’ll want to choose a private, comfortable space where you and your partner feel safe, relaxed, and uninhibited. You may want to set the tone with soft lighting and romantic music (but ideally something that won’t be distracting). Be sure to set aside an hour or more as tantric sex is intended to be a slow, meditative unfolding. You don’t want to feel rushed. Now, it’s time to begin exploring. There are a number of ways to enter into tantric sexuality, but the keys are going slow, following what feels good, focusing on sensation and your partner, and letting go of preconceptions or any kind of agenda or end result. Your job is simply to feel and connect, to give and receive. And move your bodies in ways (and positions) that feel good.RELATED: How to Flirt With A Girl: Impress Without Being CreepyYou can begin clothed or naked. Tune into your breath and that of your partner. There’s no right or wrong way to touch but aim to disrupt your normal sex routine by trying something different, something less hurried, less geared toward orgasm or sexual intercourse. Instead, try sitting opposite each other and simply looking in your partner’s eyes. Then, slowly begin to touch each other’s bodies. Or give each other massages or pick body parts to focus on and touch each other simultaneously—or take turns. Sit on each other’s laps or get into any other position that allows you to experiment with touch, motion, breath, and connection.Let Go of JudgementsTantric sex is meditative, which essentially means to be in the present moment. So, banish thoughts of what you’ll be doing later or worries you have about this or that. Banish any judgment of what you like or don’t or how your body looks or feels. Instead, think about what your body wants and feels. Notice how different touches make you feel and be responsive to your partner's reactions, too.Go SlowExperiment with using synchronized breathing as you look at each other and/or touch each other’s bodies. Use a variety of touches, such as long, slow strokes, gentle taps, squeezes, or holds, varying the pressure, speed, and motions you use. Aim to start away from the sex organs. Touch the whole body before slowly making your way to the genital areas. You can incorporate kissing, oral sex, and/or sexual intercourse whenever you like. However, again, keep things moving slowly with a focus on being mindful and present, which can heighten your pleasure and connection to your partner. Aim to continue eye contact and rhythmic breathing as much as possible. Your session ends when you both feel ready to stop, which might be after 30 minutes or after a few hours. It’s all up to you and what feels right.Have a Wind-Down RoutineThe cliche of sex being over, and both people immediately switching on the next thing (or smoking a cigarette) is an indication of the transactional nature of conventional, friction-based sex. However, tantric sex is all about deep connection, and sensuality. That's why it's crucial to not jump straight from the experience, into the next thing. Instead, create a wind-down routine with your partner.How that looks will be up to you; maybe you'll cuddle for a while in bed, slowly caressing each other with tantric massage, or maintaining eye contact. Maybe you'll have plans to cook a meal together, and watch one of your favorite shows. What matters more than the what is the how — the key is maintaining intimacy and connection outside of the bedroom.Tips for BeginnersIt can help to talk with your tantric sex partner ahead of time about what you’d like to explore together. Discuss your acceptance of each other's bodies and desires, as well as the assurance that saying no to anything that doesn’t feel good is just as welcomed as saying yes to something new. A tantric practice is all about the mind-body connection, so setting the right conditions is key.To get your ideas flowing (and maybe help you get in the mood), consider reading sex quotes or sex poems together and/or listening to music you find sexy. And talk about your desires, past sexual encounters, feelings for each other, and what you hope doing tantric sex together may bring to your relationship.Enjoy the PlayRemember, you may feel awkward at first as you begin exploring spiritual yoga. Know that with practice, you will enhance your tantric sex skills as well as your awareness of your sexual energy and spirituality. Let yourself laugh, play, and take pleasure. Aim to let go of any negative feelings and/or share them with your partner. Take the opportunity to dive into honesty and exploration together and with yourself. Relish in the sensations your body is capable of and in the loving embrace of your lover. The goal of tantric sex is goal-less, so enjoy the fun, and be curious to the potential of sensory pleasure.KEEP READING:Is Envy Harming Your Relationship? It’s Time to Understand the Three Dimensions of Jealousy

The Best Cat Quotes on the Internet – And Why They're Good for Your Mental Health
Just for Fun

The Best Cat Quotes on the Internet – And Why They're Good for Your Mental Health

Since ancient times, cats have been charming, amusing, and yes, at times annoying people. We see cats prominently displayed in hieroglyphs, in funerary artwork, on temple walls, and on obelisks. Apparently, the Prophet Muhammad so loved cats that he once sliced a sleeve off of his shirt to leave the piece of fabric behind so as to not disturb a cat that had fallen asleep atop it. And cats are often featured in medieval artwork, though their renderings are often comically terrible.RELATED: Ed Sheeran’s Most Inspiring Quotes and Lyrics to Live a Happier LifeLong story short, cats have long been a part of human culture, and they are more prominently part of everyday life for many today than ever before. Even when not actively petting or feeding or cleaning up after our cats, many of us enjoy reading funny cat quotes. Why are cat quotes so compelling? Because they make us feel good, and feeling good is healthy for the soul. Why Do Cat Quotes (And Memes) Make Us Happy?(Photo by Kate Stone Matheson on Unsplash)A funny cat quote – ideally paired with a great cat picture in the form of a cat meme – can have an immediate effect on your mental and emotional state, triggering a release of serotonin, dopamine, and/or oxytocin, these being the so-called “happiness hormone,” “feel-good hormone,” and “cuddle hormone,” respectively. And not only can a cat quote amuse and move us in the moment, but it can also call up a memory we may treasure from the past or call to mind a characteristic of one of our own beloved pets. The release of these hormones and the touchstone to memory a cat quote can be can also reduce sensations of stress and anxiety, only making the moment that much better.RELATED: Euphoria Quotes: The Show’s Most Biting and Powerful Quotes – And What They Say about YouFurther, reading a cat quote from another person – especially one that resonates with us – can make us feel more connected to other people, and that sense of connection is critical for all human beings. So, ironically, reading quotes about these unique members of the animal world can make a person feel more connected to other human beings, especially if said humans are fellow cat lovers.Now let’s take a look at some of the best cat quotes the internet has to offer, a number of which may just see you enjoying not only a moment of levity, but an increase of happy, feel-good, or cuddly hormones that genuinely enhance your mood and your sense of wellbeing.21 Cat Quotes That Will Make You Feel Better About Everything(Photo by Japheth Mast on Unsplash) 1. "A cat has absolute emotional honesty: human beings, for one reason or another, may hide their feelings, but a cat does not." — Writer Ernest Hemingway2. "As every cat owner knows, nobody owns a cat.” — Journalist Ellen Perry Berkeley3. “A happy arrangement: many people prefer cats to other people, and many cats prefer people to other cats.” — Aphorist Mason Cooley4. “I would like to see anyone, prophet, king or God, convince a thousand cats to do the same thing at the same time.” — Writer Neil Gaiman5. "In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this." — Novelist Terry Pratchett6. "There are no ordinary cats." — French novelist Colette7. "Dogs come when they're called; cats take a message and get back to you later." — Professor Mary Bly8. "If animals could speak, the dog would be a blundering outspoken fellow; but the cat would have the rare grace of never saying a word too much." — Writer Mark Twain9. “There are few things in life more heartwarming than to be welcomed by a cat.” — Literary editor Tay Hohoff10. “I believe cats to be spirits come to earth. A cat, I am sure, could walk on a cloud without coming through.” – Author Jules Verne11. "Never try to out-stubborn a cat." — Science fiction writer Robert A. HeinleinRELATED: 50 Inspirational Quotes to Uplift and Motivate12. "Cats can work out mathematically the exact place to sit that will cause most inconvenience." — Poet Pam Brown13. “Way down deep, we’re all motivated by the same urges. Cats have the courage to live by them.” – Cartoonist Jim Davis14. "Cats are intended to teach us that not everything in nature has a purpose." – Writer and radio host Garrison Keillor15. “The problem with cats is that they get the same exact look whether they see a moth or an axe murderer.” — Comedian Paula Poundstone16. “When Rome burned, the emperor's cats still expected to be fed on time.” – Author Seanan Maguire17. “There are two means of refuge from the miseries of life: music and cats.” – Theologian Albert Scheitzer18. “What greater gift than the love of a cat.” – Author Charles Dickens19. "Time spent with cats is never wasted." – Psychologist Sigmund Freud20. "Like all pure creatures, cats are practical." – Writer William S. Burroughs21. "The smallest feline is a masterpiece." – Polymath Leonardo da VinciAre Dog Quotes Also Popular?(Photo by Andrew S on Unsplash)And yes, for the record, let us be clear: reading quotes about dogs can also provide all the same benefits cat quotes can for those who love dogs and lots of people love dog quotes. As to whether cat quotes are better than dog quotes, or if cats are better than dogs, we’re staying well away from that area.As for the popularity of dogs vs. cats, did you know that worldwide cats are the more popular pets? Cats are more popular in 91 countries surveyed, while dogs were more popular in 76 countries – data was not available for every nation on the planet. However, in America, dogs are more popular than cats, according to the same findings. The reason more Americans like dogs than cats is because canines are more compliant and obedient than felines, and Americans by in large like to have their pets follow the rules and fall in line. However, that same independent streak that is a turnoff to many in the U.S. may be the exact quality so many cat owners cherish. Looking back through some of the quotes collected there, that certainly seems to be possible.KEEP READING:13 Self Worth Quotes to Help Build Your Confidence & Self Esteem

What Happened to the Original Blippi And Is His Show Dangerous or Healthy for Kids?
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What Happened to the Original Blippi And Is His Show Dangerous or Healthy for Kids?

Blippi is the title character of a children’s educational show on YouTube. Blippi’s curious and energetic persona has become one of the world’s most popular preschool entertainers. Blippi takes his friends on field trips and has guests visit his treehouse, and talks a lot about trucks, automobiles, dinosaurs, colors, and letters.RELATED: Positive Thinking for Kids: Positive Affirmations and Boosting Self EsteemBut the loveable Blippi has come under fire from some parents who think that the show lacks any educational value and promotes dangerous and unhealthy values (such as running alongside a bus, making a mess and not cleaning it up, and the use of power tools). Who Is Blippi?Created and played by Stevin John, Blippi’s first episode was posted on Blippi’s YouTube channel on January 27, 2014. Since then, Blippi was purchased alongside other children’s programming in 2020 by Moonbug Entertainment. Based in Los Angeles, California, the TV show for children ages 2-7 is available on other social media platforms. Blippi is now dubbed in Spanish, French, Portuguese, German, Italian, Hebrew, Arabic, Swedish, and Polish for children worldwide. RELATED: These Disney ‘Failures’ Prove Your Idea of Success May Be WrongNew episodes air every two days or so, and there are several channels to organize themes such as full Kids TV Shows, Kid’s Songs, Sign Language for Kids, Blippi Toys, Blippi Wonders, and dubbed versions. While Blippi is available on a range of social media platforms, Blippi’s Treehouse is a spin-off series only available on Amazon Kids+.Has Stevin John Been Replaced As Blippi?Blippi started out as a one-man venture on YouTube aimed at creating high quality pre-school children’s programming. Stevin John noticed his nephew was watching videos for children on YouTube, but the quality was low. John created the character, made the videos, and did his own filming and editing. He was inspired by growing up in a small town with tractors, trucks, and cars, and his mother made Blippy’s costume! RELATED: You May Destroy Your Child’s Future and Not Even Know It if You Fall into This TrapThe show was a success and has since grown into a full production team, expanding platforms, the introduction of live shows, and introduction of new characters like Meekah. The show has expanded beyond the creator, and so has the title character.Why was Clayton Grimm chosen to be the new Blippi?With the creation of a live show and musical tour of the Blippi show, stage performer Clayton Grimm was cast to play Blippi during the tour while the original Blippi continued production on YouTube. This new Blippi was met with some backlash from fans, who were caught off-guard by the change and criticized John for a “bait and switch” move.RELATED: 30 Inspirational Quotes for Kids to Prepare Them for SuccessClayton Grimm has played Blippi in the live show version since 2019. Starting May 8, 2021, Grimm also began performing as an alternative Blippi on Blippi's YouTube channel. Fans have been frustrated at the transition, criticizing Grimm as “the imposter” or the new Blippi.The spin-off series, Blippi’s Treehouse, announced a new character on October 9, 2021. The new character was introduced as Meekah, Blippi’s best friend, played by Kaitlin Becker.Is Blippi Dangerous For Kids?Reviews of the show are mixed. Like with Blue's Clues, some parents worry that Blippi being an adult but acting like a child is grooming behavior. While some parents worry that he throws things around and smashes things up, which might promote violence, others find value in his ability to get down to kids' level and act silly, sing, dance, and have fun while teaching something new. One parent found his energy too overstimulating for their child. RELATED: Young Avengers: 6 Kids Who Risked Their Lives to Become Inspiring Everyday HeroesHowever, it is a children's show meant for pre-schoolers and was designed to meet a need for children's YouTube videos. Blippi isn't dangerous, just goofier than an older kid's show. It's worth listening to your child's interests to determine if the show is appropriate for them.Does the original Blippi plan to return to the show?Also in October 2021, 34-year old Stevin John announced that he and his fiancee, Alyssa Ingham, were expecting their first child. The soon to be dad posted the announcement on Instagram. On March 9, 2022, Lochlan David John was born. Welcome, baby Blippi! RELATED: Sesame Street Wrestled with a Dark History to Create a Brighter Future for ALL KidsSo what happened to Blippi? Good news, actually! Blippi simply got a lot bigger than its creator! To help manage the expansion of the show, Clayton Grimm was recruited to help Stevin John portray the title character. The character is the same person, and the original Blippi has not left the show, but fans may be seeing more of Grimm’s new Blippi for the next little while. We’ll still get to see more Blippi!KEEP READING: Walt Disney’s Life Story: A Mouse, Eternal Life, and a Stolen Rabbit

These Disney 'Failures' Prove Your Idea of Success May Be Wrong
Pop Culture

These Disney 'Failures' Prove Your Idea of Success May Be Wrong

If there is one name associated with success in both the entertainment industry and society at large, it's Disney. Rarely has a single name become synonymous with not just a person or fictional character, but an entire brand. Disney is one of the most successful studios in American filmmaking, ever since the early days of the Golden Age of Hollywood. With all the properties owned by Disney, in addition to the company’s history of messing with copyright laws for its own benefit, one might think commercial and even critical failure is an impossibility for Disney, but that simply isn't true.RELATED: She-Hulk’s Sexual Liberation Is Crucial for Marvel and Disney+Since the 1920s, Disney has been susceptible to bankruptcy, a status the company only saved itself from in the last decade. Although the name Walt Disney Animation Studios carries plenty of prestige, the studio itself never had a stable history. It may be the branch most often credited with Disney’s rise to fame but it has also encountered numerous failures. Surprisingly, some of these failures include animated classics that are considered to be among the all-time greatest.Why Some of Disney's Most Beloved Movies Initially FailedWhile the “Walt Era” of Disney films is generally considered to consist of the first 19 movies made by Walt Disney Animation Studios, the ones produced while Walt Disney himself was still alive, the definition of Disney’s “golden age” is much narrower. Only the first five features made by the studio, from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to Bambi, are considered to be part of its golden age. This adds even more irony when only Dumbo and Snow White were successful enough to bring the studio some encouragement and profits.RELATED: Inspirational Quotes from Walt Disney About Life and Following Your DreamsPinocchio's untimely release date caused it to flop at the box office, but the releases that occurred shortly after World War II ended proved Pinocchio did not disrupt the expectations of the time. It was released at a time when most people did not care enough for cinema to attend a movie screening. Unlike Pinocchio, Fantasia was not constructed around a narrative, but as a cinematic novelty. The segmented nature of the film, in addition to the focus on classical music, deviated from the standard moviegoing experience, alienating a potential audience that fancies more straightforward entertainment. Whether it was the extra costs of a ticket brought by the Fantasound system, or the nightmarish bits in sequences such as “Night on Bald Mountain," general audiences were unprepared for a film, let alone an animated one, of Fantasia’s caliber. Classical musicians and enthusiasts of the genre were equally ambushed by the movie’s rearrangements of the songs, which led to other kinds of criticism. It certainly got the acclaim it deserves, but Fantasia’s current legacy was only cemented years, if not decades after cinema and audiences’ relationship to it have evolved. The movie’s “artsy” front became a much more accepted and desired form of storytelling and artistic expression.RELATED: Walt Disney’s Life Story: A Mouse, Eternal Life, and a Stolen RabbitBambi similarly clashed with the public perception of both animal stories and animated films of the 1930s and 1940s. While currently an embodiment of both the Disney company’s cutesy image and the pathos these ubiquitous family films can provoke, Bambi was an innovative work and the recognition it gets nowadays is mostly retroactive. Having the film focus on these down-to-earth creatures provided new testing grounds for both Disney and audiences. Bambi’s initial mixed reception reflects the reaction to these new ideas. Watching animated animals in a fairly realistic and melancholic setting contradicts Disney’s image and usual style of cartooning. At the time, even if people appreciated the craft of the artists, such a storyline was unthinkable. Like its contemporaries, Bambi would fare better with both rereleases and the evolution of its medium, which demonstrated various angles of the potential of animal characters in a naturalistic setting.Other Initial Failures Among the Disney Classics While all of Disney’s 1950s features are iconic and celebrated works of animation, not all of them fared well at the beginning. In fact, one in particular, had to rely on a subculture, not too dissimilar to Fantasia’s own history, to get the appreciation it lacked in 1951.Alice in Wonderland was a long time coming. Unfortunately, not only did any sort of attachment to the project vanish during production, showing the dangers of overworking an idea for too long, but the public itself was not too keen on the film at the time. It was likely the first Disney film to be truly lambasted on all ends. Many people, including Disney himself, felt the titular heroine lacked heart, and the cartoonish recreations of John Tenniel’s famous illustrations did not captivate the anglophiles and literary critics in the audience. American audiences wanted to escape from the recent war with clear-cut plots and morals in family films, all of which were absent in Alice in Wonderland. The lack of understanding that the film could be carried by its character acting rather than its source material’s creative wordplay played a significant role in the initial flops. Only on the small screen would Alice in Wonderland develop a following on the small screen, especially, thanks to the “stoner” subculture that saw the merits of its psychedelic animation. RELATED: Disney World Staffer’s Gut Reaction Saves Endangered Woman From Abusive PartnerOn the other hand, if Sleeping Beauty were greenlit out of a calculated, money-driven guess, the logic would not have been as faulty. The most critically and commercially successful Disney features at the time were all fairy tale romps, particularly based on stories about royalty. Nevertheless, the last installment of the original Disney Princess trifecta did not captivate as much as expected and encountered more money problems.Sleeping Beauty was another overly ambitious Disney project that initially cost the company dearly. The scope of its aspect ratio and precise artistic direction made it the most expensive Disney film at the time, and the princess setting failed to entrance people the way Snow White did two decades earlier. Sleeping Beauty’s story came out too late, and its visuals could have been financially feasible in a more forgiving time. It is hard to see these movies as anything but famous success stories, but monetary and cultural issues gave Disney the short end of the stick. Snow White was fresh in people’s minds and was the paragon of animated films. Maturity, darker themes, and realism in animation, especially with animals, was unthought of beyond the comedy already offered by the existing studios. In the case of Alice in Wonderland, it simply had not found the right people for it yet. While the current impact of Disney as a company on cinema is a steamy topic, the animation studio went through genuine cultural and artistic struggles that make their work all the easier to appreciate. Current cultures do not put the original Alice drawings on a pedestal, nor are serious and darker films about animals considered farfetched. Disney defied past ideas, but now, it defines them. KEEP READING:Gabrielle Union, Disney and the Vital Importance of Speaking Truth to Power