Beyond the answers - interesting background to this quiz

The Kremlin's name reveals its purpose

The word "kremlin" is not unique to Moscow. In Russian, it simply means a fortress or citadel inside a city, and several historic Russian towns have their own kremlins. Moscow's Kremlin is by far the most famous, serving as the seat of Russian power for centuries. Its distinctive red brick walls and towers, largely built in the late 15th century by Italian architects, remain a symbol of the Russian state.

Iodine and the thyroid's quiet dependence

Iodine is not something most people think about, yet the thyroid gland cannot produce its key hormones without it. These hormones regulate metabolism, growth, and energy use. Because the body does not make iodine, it must come from food or supplements. This is why many countries introduced iodised salt in the 20th century, dramatically reducing thyroid-related health problems in areas with iodine-poor soil.

Arundhati Roy's debut that made history

"The God of Small Things" was Arundhati Roy's first novel, published in 1997, and it won the Booker Prize that same year. Set in Kerala, India, the book moves between childhood memories and adult consequences, dealing with caste, family loyalty, and forbidden love. Roy did not publish another novel for twenty years, which only added to the mystique of her debut.

Water polo's surprising Olympic longevity

Water polo is often overlooked in discussions of historic Olympic sports, but it holds a unique record. Men's water polo has appeared at every Olympic Games since 1900, making it the oldest continuous Olympic team sport. The game began as a rough, almost rugby-like contest in rivers and lakes before evolving into the deep-water, seven-a-side sport seen today.

"Singin' in the Rain" and its dual directors

The 1952 musical "Singin' in the Rain" is remembered for Gene Kelly's joyful performance in the title number, but he did not direct it alone. Stanley Donen shared directing credit, and the two had already collaborated on "On the Town". Despite its enduring status, the film was not a major awards success at the time, winning no Oscars. Its reputation grew steadily in later decades.