Ready for a weekend brain-teaser? This week's Saturday quiz offers a double dose of challenge, testing your knowledge of the iconic 1960s and the traditions of Boxing Day. From music and fashion to political milestones and festive folklore, see how many answers you can recall.
The Swinging Sixties: A Cultural Revolution
The 1960s were a decade of profound change in Britain, marked by cultural shifts and significant political events. The Labour Party, under Harold Wilson, secured power for most of the era, winning elections in 1964 and 1966. This period saw the rise of the 'angry young men' and kitchen sink realism, exemplified by films like the classic 1962 drama The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner, starring Tom Courtenay.
Fashion was revolutionised by designer Mary Quant, who popularised the mini skirt, while model Twiggy became the face of 'Swinging London'. In entertainment, the BBC launched its legendary sci-fi series Doctor Who in 1963, and the satirical show That Was The Week That Was set a new standard for comedy between 1962 and 1966. The music scene was dominated by bands like The Who, who released the rock opera Tommy in 1969, and The Drifters, who had a 1964 hit with 'Under the Boardwalk'.
Political Scandals and Social Change
The decade was not without its controversies. The 1963 Profumo Affair, involving Secretary of State for War John Profumo and a showgirl, led to his resignation and damaged the government. Landmark legal changes included the Murder (Abolition of Death Penalty) Act 1965, which permanently ended capital punishment for murder in the UK. Furthermore, the planned decimalisation of UK currency was set in motion by an Act of Parliament in 1966.
Architecturally, the Brutalist style, with its raw concrete and functional forms, became prominent. In global affairs, Conservative Prime Minister Harold Macmillan delivered his historic 'Wind of Change' speech in 1960, signalling a shift in policy towards African decolonisation.
Boxing Day Traditions and Trivia
Switching to festive matters, the quiz also probes knowledge of Boxing Day. This bank holiday was first officially recognised in 1871. Before turkey dominated, a goose was the traditional Christmas table centrepiece. The day is also known as St Stephen’s Day.
From folklore to film, Boxing Day trivia covers a wide range. The devilish companion of St Nicholas is Krampus, while the classic animated short The Snowman, featuring 'Walking in the Air', first aired in 1982. In a quirky modern tradition, Japan famously eats KFC for Christmas dinner.
Sporting events are a key part of the day, with Australia hosting the famous Boxing Day Test Match in cricket. In Wales, the oldest Boxing Day swim tradition began in 1970 in the seaside town of Tenby.
How did you score? Whether you aced the 1960s round or know your Boxing Day facts inside out, there's always more to discover. Explore our other regular features on InYourArea for more local news, gardening tips, money-saving advice, and your weekly horoscope.
