29.10.2023 05:45 Date: October 29, 2023 Today’s Doodle celebrates Türkiye’s Republic Day, a historic occasion that marks the 100th anniversary of the Republic! The artwork depicts the Second Grand National Assembly of Türkiye which became home to the parliament in 1924. This is the building where Atatürk oversaw new laws and reforms. Atatürk delivered his seminal 6-day speech that detailed his beliefs on democracy, secularism, and national unity in the Great Hall. Now a museum, it’s filled with personal objects that offer an intimate glimpse into Atatürk’s life — including pens, glasses, outfits, and his morning coffee cup. On this holiday, state officials and citizens alike visit Anıtkabir in Ankara to pay respects to the founder of the republic, Atatürk, and lay wreaths on the mausoleum. People also gather in streets and stadiums for celebrations and traditionally, they join celebratory walks which are held in the evening. Congratulations on the 100th anniversary of the Republic, Türkiye! Location: Tags:
26.10.2023 07:16 Date: October 26, 2023 Today’s Doodle celebrates the Austrian National Day. On this day in 1955, the Austrian Parliament decided on the neutrality of Austria in the form of a constitutional law. In 1965, the 26th of October was declared a “national holiday” by law. Happy National Day, Austria! Einen schönen Nationalfeiertag, Österreich! Location: Tags:
23.10.2023 07:31 Date: October 23, 2023 Today’s Doodle celebrates iconic Nigerian footballer Rashidi Yekini, an accomplished forward nicknamed the “Goalsfather” for his ability to sneak shots by the keeper. On this day in 1963, he was born in Kaduna, Nigeria. The beginning of Yekini’s life was difficult as he faced homelessness and poverty. To make money, his first jobs were a welder and mechanic, but his true goal was to pursue football. He soon began playing in front of scouts and in 1981, he joined his first football club, UNTL FC, in Kaduna. The talented striker played for the Shooting Stars next, scoring an impressive 45 goals in 53 games. His spectacular scoring abilities earned him the title of African Footballer of the Year in 1983, and he was the first Nigerian player to receive this honor. The next year, he helped bring the Shooting Stars to the finals of the African Champions Cup. Outside of Nigeria, he also played for football clubs in Spain, Tanzania, Saudi Arabia, Portugal, Tunisia, Switzerland, and Greece. While playing for a Portuguese team called Vitória Setúbal, he won the Bola de Prata for being the league’s top-scoring player in the 1993-94 season. Yekini helped Nigeria’s national team, nicknamed the Super Eagles, qualify for the 1994 World Cup. Nigeria played Bulgaria on June 21st, and Yekini made it a game to remember. Not only did he score the first goal of the game, but also the first World Cup goal for Nigeria. Overcome with excitement and pride, he ran into the net and clutched it with both arms while cheering and crying tears of joy. Many consider it one of the most iconic goal celebrations in football history and it served as inspiration for today’s Doodle artwork. He went on to play for the Super Eagles for a little over 14 years, including another shot at the World Cup in 1998. In his 58 games for Nigeria, he scored 37 times, and to this day holds the record for most goals scored for the country. Happy birthday, Rashidi Yekini! Location: , Tags:
22.10.2023 11:45 Date: October 22, 2023 Location: Tags:
22.10.2023 01:45 Date: October 22, 2023 Location: Tags:
20.10.2023 00:00 Date: October 20, 2023 In honor of UK Black History Month, today’s Doodle celebrates the 122nd birthday of Adelaide Hall, a jazz singer who is widely recognised for introducing scat singing during the Harlem Renaissance. The American-born, UK-based entertainer had a record-breaking career that spanned more than 70 years. The Doodle artwork was illustrated by London-based guest artist . Hall was born on this day in 1901 in Brooklyn, New York. Adelaide’s father taught her and her sister piano from a young age. After the tragic deaths of her father and sister, Adelaide had no choice but to support herself and her mother. She began her career singing in the chorus line for Shuffle Along , a popular all-Black musical on Broadway that helped establish African American show business. In 1925, Hall embarked on a European tour for Chocolate Kiddies playing in numerous cities including Hamburg, Geneva, Paris, and Vienna. The show was a resounding international success. Later, she returned to Manhattan and continued performing on Broadway’s biggest stages. Her breakout moment came in 1927 when she hummed along to a show tune by Duke Ellington. The jazz star was entranced by her wordless yet emotive melody and asked her to record it with his band. A year later, that same song, Creole Love Call, landed on the American Billboard charts at #19 — and just like that, scat singing was born. It wasn’t long before Adelaide Hall became a household name in both the U.S. and Europe. Soon after, Hall joined the cast for Lew Leslie’s Blackbirds of 1928. The musical ran for more than 500 performances and attracted over a million viewers before moving to the Moulin Rouge in Paris. The audiences in Europe welcomed her with open arms, so much so that she decided to permanently move to the U.K. in 1938. Her international success only grew from there. Hall’s entertainment career spanned an impressive eight decades — in fact, she currently holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s most enduring recording artist. Her songs continue to move listeners with each note and lyric, and her legacy lives on in the hearts of many. Happy birthday, Adelaide Hall! Special thanks to Adelaide Hall’s estate for their collaboration on this project. Below, Marisa Lewis, a relative of Adelaide, shares a statement about today’s Doodle on behalf of the family. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Google for embarking on this project and allowing me to celebrate my family member, Adelaide Hall, during the UK's Black History Month. Adelaide was a true pioneer and possessed a rare gift—a voice that could move mountains and a talent for dance that enchanted audiences worldwide. Instilled in her by her parents' tutelage, she harnessed her natural gifts of perfect pitch, dance, and charisma, determined to support her household. Little did she know that her unwavering work ethic, creativity, passion, and humility would pave the way for a once-in-a-lifetime career and an enduring legacy. She ushered in the era of scat music, influencing genres from jazz to pop, R&B, and hip-hop. Her legs, which personally taught Queen Elizabeth II the "Charleston," were once insured for an impressive sum of $500,000! Her era saw her rise as one of the wealthiest and most beloved black women in America and the UK. She played a vital role in discovering and or mentoring artists such as Art Tatum, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Lena Horne, and many others, showcasing her commitment to nurturing talent and African-American culture. Today, thanks to Google, her legacy is being reintroduced to a new generation, continuing to inspire young black girls, musicians, and anyone facing adversity to bring their dreams to fruition. Though I was only five years old and living in America when Addie passed away, I was always captivated by the stories my grandmother shared about her. Adelaide instilled a deep sense of pride and a lifelong passion for music and black history. It fills me with pride to know that even today, on what would have been her 122nd birthday, people from around the world continue to enjoy her performances and music. I'm delighted by the anecdotes of her sense of humor, kidlike spirit, and lasting impact as a mentor and friend to many. Her ability to remain a class-act professional, a diligent worker, and a dedicated community member in Britain remains a source of inspiration to me and for us all. So, let's cheer for the "Sophisticated Lady" herself, Ms. Adelaide Hall. Happy Birthday, Addie. We love and miss you dearly. - Marisa Lewis Early Doodle Drafts Guest Artist Q&A with Hannah Buckman Today’s Doodle was illustrated by British guest artist . Below, she shares her thoughts behind the making of this Doodle: Q: Why was this topic meaningful to you personally? A: Adelaide's story is incredibly meaningful to me as an artist because it exemplifies the power of creative expression to impact culture and inspire change. I'm drawn to black women who have used their artistic talents to shine brightly and influence society. Their stories not only resonate with me on a personal level but also are so inspiring for my own creative work. I believe that by showcasing the talent and creativity of people like Adelaide through art, we can continue to celebrate their contributions and raise awareness of their impact. Q: What were your first thoughts when you were approached about the project? A: When I was first approached about the project, I felt really excited. It was as if the seeds I had planted in my creative journey were manifesting and growing! It feels like quite a milestone moment in my career. Learning about Adelaide's story and her profound influence on other soul singers, such as Billie Holiday, was fascinating. I was particularly inspired by the impact she had on her own family, including her granddaughter, who now runs her estate and is a musician herself. This project presented an opportunity to explore and celebrate Adelaide's legacy and I'm so grateful to have been a part of it. Q: Did you draw inspiration from anything in particular for this Doodle? A: There are some videos from the early 1940s of people doing the Lindy Hop that I am obsessed with, I wanted to channel that energy and passion when working on the doodle really helped. I loved looking at paintings by African-American artist Archibald Motely, and watching the film 'Passing' also helped me immerse myself in the vibe of the Harlem Renaissance, the era Adelaide was most active. Of course, seeing videos of Adelaide's performances was a wonderful source of inspiration. Q: What message do you hope people take away from your Doodle? A: I hope the doodle sends a message of joy, inspiration and empowerment to other aspiring artists and creative people, particularly black women. I want it to encourage them that their voice matters and that anything is possible! Location: , , , , , , , , , , Tags:
20.10.2023 00:00 Date: October 20, 2023 Today’s Doodle celebrates Papeda or Bubur Sagu — a delicious sago porridge that’s a staple in Eastern Indonesia and has gained popularity all over the world.. On this day in 2015, Papeda was publicly declared an Indonesian Intangible Cultural Heritage. Millions of sago palm trees veil the islands of Indonesia, and each year locals harvest it with the intention of exporting to other countries or for cooking —like making papeda. One sago tree can produce nearly 150 to 300 kilograms of sago starch! The crop provides a balanced range of nutrients, including protein, carbs, calcium, and iron. But it also means a lot more to the communities across Indonesia that it's helped sustain for centuries. Sago is still used in various Papuan and Moluccan rituals and ceremonies, like the Watani Kame . So how does one make papeda? After removing the flour-like substance from the trees, combine it with boiling water and stir until it thickens. Sprinkle in some turmeric, basil, lemongrass, salam leaves for extra flavor, and even your favorite fish! Now you have one of Indonesia’s most famous nutritious yet delicious meals! Location: Tags:
19.10.2023 04:15 Date: October 19, 2023 Today’s Doodle celebrates the 150th birthday of Dutch athlete Jaap Eden. In the early 20th century, his athletic abilities made him an international spectacle and he remains the only person to become a world champion in both cycling and skating. Eden was born on this day in Groningen, Netherlands in 1873. He was raised by his grandparents and spent the majority of his childhood playing sports. A retired Dutch skater discovered fifteen-year-old Eden practicing and believed he showed great promise. After three years of training and winning amateur races, Eden made his debut at the international level. In 1893, he won his first world title at the World Allround Speed Skating Championships. In 1894, Eden broke two skating world records, including the five-kilometer race, which stood for 17 years. Despite competing at the most competitive level of skating in the world, Eden also found time to practice and race in cycling — another sport he loved. He won the cycling world championship that same year and later set a world record in the 1,000-meter race. Eden earned two more skating world titles in Hamar and St. Petersburg. He skated and cycled until 1902, but chose to retire once his performance began to decline. In 1961, Amsterdam opened Jaap Eden Ice Rink, the biggest indoor-outdoor skating rink in the country and home to the hockey team the Amsterdam Tigers. A decade later, the Netherlands named the Dutch Sportsman of the Year award after Eden. He still ranks as one of the most iconic Dutch athletes, and his legacy continues to inspire skaters and cyclists around the world. Happy birthday, Jaap Eden! Location: Tags:
18.10.2023 07:45 Date: October 18, 2023 Today’s Doodle, illustrated by guest artist , celebrates the birth of Violet King Henry, Canada's first Black female lawyer. A trailblazer in the legal industry, and a leader in her community, King continues to be a symbol of perseverance in the face of adversity. King was born on this day in 1929, in Calgary, Alberta. She was a well-rounded student who achieved good grades and participated in several extracurriculars. Her high school senior yearbook caption proudly stated her intentions to pursue a career in law. In 1950, she attended the University of Alberta Faculty of Law. King excelled in her classes, taught piano lessons, and was vice president of a feminist group — the Blue Stocking Club and the Students’ Union. She earned an executive “A” gold ring for her many contributions to the university in 1952. King graduated in 1953, becoming the first Black graduate of the University of Alberta Faculty of Law and the first Black Canadian in the province to earn a law degree. She articled at a Calgary law firm, and worked on five high-profile criminal trials in her first year. King was admitted to the Alberta Bar in 1954, which added another “first” to her list — becoming the first Black woman in Canada to practice law. She spent a few years in Alberta as a lawyer before moving to Ottawa, where she joined Canada’s federal Citizenship and Immigration department. In this role, King met with leaders of community organizations and helped new immigrants find work and settle in Canada. After seven years, she moved to the U.S. and worked as the Executive Director of the Newark, New Jersey YMCA’s Community Branch, where she helped Black applicants find employment for six years before moving to Chicago to work at the YMCA’s national headquarters. While in Chicago King eventually became the first woman of any race, and the first Black person of any gender, to hold an executive position in the U.S. National Council of YMCA’s Organizational Development Group . In 1998, she was inducted into the YMCA Hall of Fame for her work promoting the rights of women and minority groups. The Government of Alberta named a plaza in Edmonton after her in 2021, and the newly established Violet King Henry Law School Award is given to an outstanding Black law student at the University of Alberta annually. Toronto Metropolitan University’s Law School also presents an annual award to a committed civil rights advocate student, and the Black Law Student Association of Canada now holds a “Women of Excellence in Law” luncheon in her honor at their annual national conference. King once noted in a speech given soon after being called to the Canadian BAR that some people discouraged her from pursuing a law career. She said “People told me it wasn’t a good idea for a girl to be a lawyer, particularly a coloured girl… so I went ahead.” - Violet King, May 5, 1956. And in “going ahead” she proved them wrong by breaking glass ceilings and inspiring women of colour everywhere to pursue their dreams, even when met with resistance. Happy birthday, Violet King Henry, thank you for breaking down gender and racial barriers throughout your impressive career! Early Doodle Draft Location: Tags:
17.10.2023 10:30 Date: October 17, 2023 Today’s Doodle celebrates the birthday of Mexican American media pioneer, broadcaster, and community activist Raoul A. Cortez, a trailblazer for Spanish-language media in the United States. The artwork, illustrated by Mexican American guest artist , depicts the various roles Cortez played in furthering Latino culture and civil rights in the U.S.. Cortez was born on this day in 1905 in Veracruz, Mexico. His family immigrated to the United States when he was young and settled in San Antonio, Texas. In adulthood, he entered the media scene as a reporter for La Prensa, a San Antonio-based, Spanish-language daily newspaper. By the 30s and 40s, Cortez owned and ran a Theatrical Agency which introduced talented performers from Mexico and other Latin American countries to the U.S. audience. He went on to buy airtime on KMAC Radio producing Spanish songs, comedic acts, and sketches. Given his love of radio and seeing the growing need for accessible content for Spanish-speaking audiences in the U.S., Cortez applied for his own radio station, which became the first Spanish-language radio station in America. The station went on-air in 1946 with the slogan La Voz Mexicana . With the success of his radio show, Cortez added television to his broadcasting operation, becoming the first Latino-run American TV station in Spanish. Cortez was also heavily involved in civil rights advocacy for U.S. Latinos throughout his life, notably overseeing the court case Delgado v. Bastrop Independent School District, which ended the segregation of Mexican Americans in Texas public schools. He also served two terms as president of the League of United Latin American Citizens, and met with the U.S. and Mexican presidents to discuss immigration reform and help develop the Bracero Program, which allowed Mexican farmworkers to migrate back and forth to the U.S. on short-term labor contracts. Cortez’s legacy lives on through various honors. The National Association of Broadcasters awarded him the media excellence award, and the trade publication Radio Ink created an award—Medallas de Cortez Hispanic Radio Award — to celebrate Latino radio leaders, in his honor. In 2015, Cortez and his media programs were included in the American Enterprise exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. Feliz cumpleaños, Raoul A. Cortez! Special thanks to Raoul Cortez’s estate for their collaboration on this project. Below, Cortez’s grandson, Guillermo Nicolas, shares a statement about his grandfather’s legacy. Raoul Cortez Sr was an American maverick who had a dream of building radio and television in Spanish. He wanted to entertain, educate and create a platform for Latinos and issues important to us. Pictured: Raoul Cortez Photo Credit: Courtesy of Guillermo Nicolas Go behind the scenes of today’s Doodle Guest artist, Rafel Lopez, working in his art studio Early Doodle Draft Guest Artist Q&A with Rafael Lopez Today’s Doodle was illustrated by Mexican American guest . Below, he shares his thoughts behind the making of this Doodle: Q: Why was this topic meaningful to you personally? A: My Uncle Ruben was the host of a radio program at UNAM in Mexico City called Radio Universidad and we listened each weekday while my mom drove us to elementary school. Given that Raoul Cortez founded first full time Hispanic radio station, “La Voz Mexicana” in the United States, it resonated with me and my memories of listening to my uncle.. Q: What were your first thoughts when you were approached about the project? A: I felt a rush of excitement along with responsibility to visually tell the remarkable journey of a broadcasting trailblazer and advocate for the civil rights of Mexican Americans. Last year I was challenged and honored to create 57 portraits documenting Latino heritage and culture in the U.S. for the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino in Washington D.C. Like Raoul A. Cortez, these people were often hidden figures in history, people whose contributions were overlooked or marginalized for far too long. I was determined to tell Raoul’s story in a compelling way. Q: Did you draw inspiration from anything in particular for this Doodle? A: Through research, I came across a modern Aztec mask that became a distinct symbol for KCOR broadcasting in San Antonio. It became a powerful symbol of the station's close ties to the Mexican American community. Inspired by this mask, I used an Aztec motif, geometric triangle patterns to acknowledge the vision and influence of Cortez’s truly pioneering work for Mexican Americans. Q: What message do you hope people take away from your Doodle? A: Like Raoul, you can make a positive change in life. No matter how big or small your contribution is, the changes will be lasting and remembered. Location: , , Tags:
16.10.2023 14:16 Date: October 16, 2023 Location: Tags:
15.10.2023 07:45 Date: October 15, 2023 Location: Tags:
15.10.2023 07:45 Date: October 15, 2023 Location: Tags:
13.10.2023 15:30 Date: October 14, 2023 Location: Tags:
11.10.2023 04:15 Date: October 11, 2023 Today’s storybook Doodle celebrates Cartola, a Brazilian composer, poet, and singer who became known throughout the country as a master of samba. On this day in 1908, he was born in Rio de Janeiro with the name Angenor de Oliveira. Cartola grew up interested in music; he watched his father strum the guitar and cavaquinho , loved samba at Carnival, and learned to play his dad’s instruments. At a young age, he had to work jobs to help support his family — he was a painter, mason, bricklayer, and construction worker. This is where he got the nickname Cartola, because of the bowler hat he wore to keep cement out of his hair. By age 17, Cartola was composing sambas and singing in local bars, often with Carlos Cachaça, a lifelong music collaborator and friend he met in Morro da Mangueira. A few other musicians joined the pair in 1928 and founded one of the first samba schools in Rio, the Estação Primeira de Mangueira, where Cartola was the director of harmony. In addition to teaching music, great performers sang his sambas, and he gained popularity in 1932 with the hit Divina Dama. Cartola showcased the poetic language and emotion of samba on the radio program A Voz do Morro, at Carnival, and through his famous songs Não Quero Mais, Sim, and O Sol Nascerá. He took a short break from music before meeting his future wife Zica, who encouraged him to pursue his passion again. She was a well-known cook, and together they ran Zicartola, a samba house and restaurant that became a hub for composers and dancers. Cartola didn't release his own LP until 1974 — but it was an instant success, immediately winning awards and critical acclaim. Three more LPs came soon after, with standout As Rosas Não Falam which was chosen as a soap opera soundtrack. The sambista had his first individual concert at age 70 and would perform and compose for the rest of his life. His legacy lives on as current musicians play and record his works today. Happy birthday, Cartola! Location: , , , , , , Tags:
