Active Minds: Somalia

Sam Gary Library 2961 Roslyn St, Denver, CO, United States

Somalia's history is a story of Colonialism yielding to authoritarianism dissolving into anarchy. Chaos has reigned since the early 1990's with rampant wars between rival clans, with no functional government in charge. Severe famine prompted the United Nations and the U.S. to intervene in the 1990's with decidedly mixed results. Lately, the Islamist extremist group.... Read More

Active Minds: Spain

Sam Gary Library 2961 Roslyn St, Denver, CO, United States

From its heights as the dominant country in the world in the 16th century, Spain is now one of the European countries struggling with debt. Join Active Minds as we explore the roots and legacy of the Spanish Empire and how this important country fits into the regional and global puzzle today. More info: Active Minds:.... Read More

Active Minds: Princess Diana

Sam Gary Library 2961 Roslyn St, Denver, CO, United States

Twenty years after the death of Princess Diana, join Active Minds as we review her life and legacy. We will cover her rise to royalty, including her troubled marriage to Prince Charles. We will look at the two issues she championed: AIDS and landmines. We will conclude with a look at her tragic death and.... Read More

Active Minds: Turbulent Waters: Conflict in the South China Sea

Sam Gary Library 2961 Roslyn St, Denver, CO, United States

The South China Sea is an incredibly strategic body of water located between China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. At stake is one of the busiest trade routes in the world as well as oil and fishing rights. Recently China has been pressing its claim to long disputed parts of the South China Sea,.... Read More

Active Minds: The Story of Salt

Sam Gary Library 2961 Roslyn St, Denver, CO, United States

The word “salary” comes from “salt” and indicates the historic value placed on this important commodity. Used as a method of trade and currency, the role of salt in the history of civilization cannot be overstated. Join Active Minds as we tell the story of salt, from its key role in preserving food, to its.... Read More

Active Minds: Iran

Sam Gary Library 2961 Roslyn St, Denver, CO, United States

Join Active Minds for an in-depth look at the country of Iran. We will discuss the thorny issue of Iran's nuclear program, the relationship between Iran’s religious and political leadership, and challenges presented by regional turmoil. In particular, we will discuss how the rest of the world is responding to the various challenges presented by.... Read More

Active Minds: Phillipines

Sam Gary Library 2961 Roslyn St, Denver, CO, United States

The Philippines is fighting a brutal war on drugs that some have termed “out of control.” Recently elected President Rodrigo Duterte campaigned on a promise to fight drugs in the country and is leading a bloody crackdown that many say is encouraging vigilante execution of drug dealers and addicts. Join Active Minds as we review.... Read More

Active Minds: Spices

Sam Gary Library 2961 Roslyn St, Denver, CO, United States

From the bland diets of Europeans in the early 16th century to the myriad of culinary flavors available today, spices have had a huge impact in the world. Join Active Minds as we trace the rise of spices from colonialism and the spice trade to the hundreds of varieties that are commonly stocked in nearby.... Read More

Active Minds: The United Nations

Sam Gary Library 2961 Roslyn St, Denver, CO, United States

Join Active Minds for a look at the United Nations. We will examine the origins and history of the U.N. as well as its current and future role in the world. More info: Active Minds: The United Nations

Active Minds: Oil

Sam Gary Library 2961 Roslyn St, Denver, CO, United States

Over the past couple years the price of oil has gone from over $100 per barrel to, at times, less than $30 per barrel. This has had profound effects all over the world. Join Active Minds as we explore the causes and consequences (positive and negative) of this dynamic. We will cover the role of.... Read More