AskHistorians

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According to Wikipedia, Horst Mahler, founding member of the far-left Red Army Faction in the 1970s, is now a Neo-Nazi and has stated that "the enemy [i.e. Jews] is the same" today as in his RAF days. To what degree was anti-Semitism present in far-left groups in the 20th Century?	15
In this picture from 1972, Elvis appears to be wearing a digital watch. Is this possible? If so, what is this watch and how rare were such watches at the time?	15
Was there ever a time in U.S. history when high-level politicians sent their children to public schools? If so, what changed and why?	15
In Japan, the Yakuza is typically known for its association with far-right nationalist politics, whereas in the U.S., the mafia is typically known for its association with leftist politics and labor unions. How did these associations come about?	14
Why are so many famous operas set in Seville?	12
In 'Saving Private Ryan,' there is a scene in which a trio of medics is attempting to treat a wounded soldier on the battlefield. The soldier is eventually killed by enemy fire, but the medics, who are clearly visible and right next to him, are left alone. Is this accurate?	11
What, if any, role did the Nation of Islam in general, and Louis Farrakhan specifically, have in the assassination of Malcolm X?	11
In Jane Austen's 'Emma,' Harriet Smith is attacked by "gipsies" during a walk, who terrify and extort money from her. What would Austen have meant by "gipsy," and were they perceived as a serious problem in England at this time, or was this just a plot device?	10
According to legend, Robin Hood robbed the king's tax collectors and gave the money back to the people. In real-life Medieval Europe, who would be responsible for losses, if tax collectors were robbed?	10
Why did major drug cartels develop primarily in Latin America (especially Colombia) as opposed to elsewhere in the world?	10

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