(Encyclopedia) Joplin, JanisJoplin, Janisjŏpˈlĭn [key], 1943–70, American blues-rock singer, b. Port Arthur, Tex. After dropping out of college (1963) and singing folk rock in Texas clubs, she moved…
(Encyclopedia) Berger, ThomasBerger, Thomasbûrˈgər [key], 1924–2014, American novelist, b. Cincinnati, grad. Univ. of Cincinnati (B.A., 1948). He is known for bitterly comic novels that often deal…
(Encyclopedia) John Henry, legendary African American famous for his strength, celebrated in ballads and tales. In the most popular version of the story, John Henry tries to outwork a steam drill…
(Encyclopedia) Robertson, Oscar, 1938–, U.S. basketball player, b. Charlotte, Tenn. Passionately devoted to basketball as a youth, Robertson led his high school team to 45 consecutive victories.…
(Encyclopedia) PierrotPierrotpēˌərōˈ [key] [Fr.,=little Peter], character in French pantomime. A buffoon, he wore a loose white tunic with big buttons, balloon sleeves, and white pantaloons. His face…
(Encyclopedia) badlands, area of severe erosion, usually found in semiarid climates and characterized by countless gullies, steep ridges, and sparse vegetation. Badland topography is formed on poorly…
The Cunning Rogue: SisyphusClassical MythologyWhat the Hell? Adventures in the UnderworldHades Takes a Wife: PersephoneThe Cunning Rogue: SisyphusThe Not-So-Heavenly Host: TantalusUndying Love:…
(Encyclopedia) MurphysboroMurphysboromûrˈfēzbûrˌə [key], city (1990 pop. 9,176), seat of Jackson co., S Ill., on the Big Muddy River; inc. 1867. It is a trade and distribution center for a fertile…
