Understanding Public Domain

Which famous musical piece by George Gershwin entered the public domain in 2020?

• An American in Paris

• Porgy and Bess

• Rhapsody in Blue

• I Got Rhythm

What happens when a work enters the public domain?

• Anyone can use and build upon the work without fees or permission.

• It becomes the property of the government.

• It requires a special license to be used.

• It can no longer be used by anyone.

Why is the concept of an expiration date on intellectual property important?

• It promotes the creation of new works and innovation.

• It restricts the use of old works.

• It makes it easier for the government to control information.

• It allows creators to profit indefinitely.

What is the primary purpose of copyright according to the U.S. Constitution?

• To provide government control over creative works.

• To restrict the use of creative works to their original creators.

• To promote the progress of Science and useful Arts.

• To ensure creators can profit indefinitely from their works.

How did F. Scott Fitzgerald's estate react to 'The Great Gatsby' entering the public domain?

• They bought back the copyright to prevent adaptations.

• They had no control over adaptations but hoped for faithfulness.

• They welcomed the change and supported new adaptations.

• They filed a lawsuit to extend the copyright.

What significant event related to copyright happened to 'Steamboat Willie'?

• It was copyrighted indefinitely.

• It entered the public domain.

• Its copyright was extended by Congress.

• It was purchased by a private collector.

What was the outcome of Les Klinger's civil suit regarding Sherlock Holmes?

• The Conan Doyle estate won the rights to all Sherlock Holmes characters.

• Klinger lost and had to pay licensing fees.

• Klinger won, affirming the characters were in the public domain.

• The case is still pending in federal court.

What does the public domain provide for future creativity?

• A financial burden due to licensing fees

• A legal challenge for new works

• A source of inspiration and material

• A barrier to new creators

Which characters are expected to enter the public domain soon?

• Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee

• James Bond and Sherlock Holmes

• Bugs Bunny and Superman

• Harry Potter and Hermione Granger

When will Luke Skywalker potentially enter the public domain?

• 2073

• 2100

• 2050

• 2025