Category: Biographica

Bert the Turtle

Bert the Turtle from the Civil Defense film "Duck and Cover"

Bert the Turtle WHO HE WAS: Bert the Turtle is an iconic cartoon character from the American Civil Defense film “Duck and Cover,” produced during the Cold War era. He was created to educate children and the general public about safety measures to take during a nuclear attack. WHAT HE SAID: While Bert the Turtle

Ida Tarbell

Ida Tarbell, portrait c. 1900

Ida Tarbell (1857-1944) WHO SHE WAS: Ida Tarbell was a pioneering investigative journalist, known for her groundbreaking exposés in McClure’s Magazine during the Progressive Era. Her most notable work, “The History of the Standard Oil Company,” unveiled the unscrupulous practices of the oil giant and became a cornerstone of muckraking journalism. WHAT S/HE SAID: Reflecting

Huey Long

Huey Long standing in a doorway, smiling

HUEY LONG (1893-1935) WHO S/HE WAS: Jane Addams devoted her life to social and political reform and to the betterment of the economic condition of the masses. She worked for women’s rights, to help the poor and to stop the use of children as industrial laborers. She founded Hull House in Chicago, a center which

Thomas Jefferson

Founding Father Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) WHO HE WAS: Thomas Jefferson was the third President of the United States, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, and one of the most influential Founding Fathers for his promotion of the ideals of republicanism in the United States. An advocate of democracy, individual rights, and education, Jefferson also made

Charles Guiteau

Charles Guiteau, portrait, facing left.

Charles Guiteau (1841-1882) WHO HE WAS: Charles Guiteau was a disturbed individual who infamously assassinated President James A. Garfield. His actions shocked the nation and led to discussions about mental health, political violence, and the security of public figures. WHAT HE SAID: Reflecting on his motivations, Guiteau proclaimed: “I am a Stalwart and Arthur will

President James Garfield

President James A. Garfield

James Garfield (1831-1881) WHO HE WAS: James Garfield served as the 20th President of the United States, known for his brief but impactful presidency. A scholar and military leader, he championed civil rights, education, and economic reform during a pivotal time in American history. WHAT HE SAID: Reflecting on the importance of education, Garfield emphasized: