Mark Forsyth: What's a snollygoster? A short lesson in political speak

The video explores the power of language in politics, starting with the term 'snollygoster' for dishonest politicians. It highlights Brass Crosby's fight for press freedom in Britain and the debate over George Washington's title, ultimately settling on 'President'. The Senate's initial reluctance and the evolution of the title's significance are discussed, illustrating how reality shapes language more than language shapes reality.

What does the term 'snollygoster' refer to?

• A type of bird

• A dishonest politician

• A historical event

• A type of government

Who was responsible for allowing newspapers to report the exact words of British Parliament debates?

• George Washington

• Brass Crosby

• John Adams

• Thomas Jefferson

What was one of the proposed titles for George Washington?

• Emperor

• Prime Minister

• Governor

• Chief Magistrate

Why did the House of Representatives oppose calling George Washington 'king'?

• They thought it was too modern

• They preferred a longer title

• They feared it would give him too much power

• They wanted a more traditional title

What was the original meaning of the title 'President'?

• A religious figure

• A ruler of a nation

• A military leader

• Someone who presides over a meeting

How many nations currently have a president?

• 200

• 147

• 100

• 50

What lesson does the speaker emphasize about the relationship between words and reality?

• Words always shape reality

• Reality is static and unchanging

• Reality changes words more than words change reality

• Words and reality are unrelated