[Answer] The sinking of what ship led to the Spanish-American War in 1898?

Step 1 : Introduction to the question "The sinking of what ship led to the Spanish-American War in 1898?"

...The USS Maine exploded and sank in Havana Harbor on February 15, 1898, killing more than 260 American sailors. Although the exact cause of the explosion remains debated, sensationalist newspaper coverage—often called “yellow journalism”—blamed Spain. The rallying cry “Remember the Maine! To hell with Spain!” swept across the United States and became a driving force behind the decision to declare war. The incident transformed a long-brewing tension into conflict, marking the start of the Spanish–American War.

[Answer] Which of these famous landmarks once served as a prison?

Step 1 : Introduction to the question "Which of these famous landmarks once served as a prison?"

...The Tower of London is one of the world’s most storied fortresses, and for centuries it doubled as a notorious prison. Originally built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century as a royal stronghold, it later became the holding place for political rivals, religious dissenters, spies, and even members of the royal family. Figures such as Anne Boleyn, Sir Walter Raleigh, and Guy Fawkes were imprisoned within its walls. Today, the Tower is a major historic site and home to the Crown Jewels—far removed from its darker past.

[Answer] Which actor was offered, but ultimately turned down the role of Han Solo in "Star Wars"?

Step 1 : Introduction to the question "Which actor was offered, but ultimately turned down the role of Han Solo in "Star Wars"?"

...Before Harrison Ford became synonymous with Han Solo, George Lucas initially offered the role to Al Pacino. Pacino later joked that he “didn’t understand the script,” so he ultimately turned it down. His surprising decision then paved the way for Ford—who was at the time doing part-time carpentry work on Lucas’s set—to step into the role and become one of the most iconic and enduring heroes in movie history. It’s now a classic Hollywood “what if” story, highlighting how a single, unexpected casting choice can unexpectedly reshape an entire franchise.

[Answer] Which patriotic song contains the line, “O beautiful for heroes proved in liberating strife”?

Step 1 : Introduction to the question "Which patriotic song contains the line, “O beautiful for heroes proved in liberating strife”?"

...The line “O beautiful for heroes proved in liberating strife” is the opening line of the second verse of America the Beautiful, the patriotic hymn written by Katharine Lee Bates in 1893 and later set to music by Samuel A. Ward. While most people are familiar with the song’s first verse—“O beautiful for spacious skies…”—the second verse shifts the focus from America’s natural beauty to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought to defend the nation’s freedoms. By honoring the “heroes proved” in battle, the verse adds depth to the song’s tribute to the country and the people who helped shape it.

[Answer] Which iconic artist painted a self-portrait titled “Diego and I”?

Step 1 : Introduction to the question "Which iconic artist painted a self-portrait titled “Diego and I”?"

...Diego and I is one of Frida Kahlo’s most revealing and emotionally charged self-portraits, created during a period of deep turmoil in her relationship with Diego Rivera. Painted in 1949, it shows Kahlo with tears running down her cheeks and a small image of her husband painted on her forehead, symbolizing how deeply he occupied her thoughts and identity. The portrait reflects the turbulent, intertwined nature of their relationship and is considered one of Kahlo’s late masterpieces, blending raw emotion with her signature surrealist-influenced style.