The Faces of Evil

Good morning, and Happy Thanksgiving!

Today, our celebration of gratitude includes stories—from a dog stealing the show to simmering trade tensions that could shape our future. It’s the perfect mix to share over coffee or maybe even at the dinner table. Let’s dive in!

Here's everything you need to know today:

France is reeling from a trial that has shaken the nation—and the world. Over 50 men stand accused of crimes so shocking they've sparked protests and soul-searching. The case centers on Gisèle Pelicot, who spent nearly a decade suffering unimaginable abuse at the hands of her now ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot.

He drugged Gisèle and invited strangers to torture her while recording the acts for his grotesque collection from his quiet village in Provence. They range from plumbers to retirees, all claiming ignorance of Gisèle's lack of consent, some likening her drugged state to pornography's harmful stereotypes.

In addition to exposing the depths of individual depravity, this case forced France to confront cultural blind spots around consent and rape. With protests erupting under banners like "Shame Must Switch Sides," Gisèle's bravery in demanding a public trial has made her a symbol of resilience.

A true legacy of the trial may be its challenge to society: How did so many "ordinary men" commit such monstrous acts, and how do we deal with it in a culture where the unthinkable seems commonplace?

Trade Wars 2.0

Remember the trade wars of Trump's first term? Well, they're back—bigger, bolder, and possibly messier (no popcorn this time). America's closest trade allies are gearing up for retaliation. Meanwhile, Trump argues it's all about stopping migrants and drugs. Canada shrugged, Mexico scowled, and markets shivered.

The "America First" narrative faces skepticism from economists and analysts:

• Goldman Sachs: Tariffs = Higher costs for U.S. consumers.

• Mexico: A warning that 400,000 U.S. jobs could be on the line.

• Canada: Will tariffs hit energy prices hard because guess who supplies 60% of America's crude oil?

So, while Trump's promise to "lower costs" may have won him votes, these moves might just empty wallets faster than Black Friday. We're left wondering: Is this a serious policy shift, or is Trump just setting the stage for another dramatic negotiation?

Move Over Anubis

You’ve probably seen the video—a stray dog perched atop the Pyramid of Khafre, standing like he owns the place. Meet Apollo, the Baladi dog who has captured hearts on Instagram. During a morning flight, paraglider Alex Lang found the scene surreal: a lone dog basking on a monument to mankind, barking at birds.

What happened next was peak internet chaos. The video went viral, amassing millions of views, but not before an influencer ahem “borrowed” the footage and made himself the star. While the human drama unfolded below, Apollo remained unperturbed, refusing to be tamed. Giza's unofficial mascot remains undisturbed at the pyramids, where his caretakers insist he belongs. Who needs a pharaoh when you’ve got Apollo?

Lost in Transit

Every year, Uber reminds us just how forgetful we can be—and 2024 might be the wildest yet. In their Lost & Found Index, riders leave behind hilarious surprises. Spoiler alert: it’s not just wallets and phones.

The collection includes a Jeep Liberty engine—yes, the entire engine—a "See you in court" candle, and even two spider containers. Miami topped the list of “Most Forgetful Cities” because, of course, it did. The most lost items were red. Losing things is most common between 9 and 10 p.m.; the worst day is January 21st.

Uber's app makes recovery easier if you leave your dignity—or perhaps your Mini Cooper keys—behind. But hey, maybe check the backseat next time, just in case your Spamalot tickets are still there.

💡 Core Wisdom

📸 Lens to Life

Ten decades of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade balloons.

🧮 Core Count: 50

The percentage of people who eat rice as a staple food.

🗓️ Flashback:

1520 - Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan starts crossing the Pacific Ocean.

1893 - Women voted in a national election in New Zealand for the first time.

1919 - Nancy Astor was elected as the first woman to serve in the British House of Commons (to take her seat).

I'm glad we could get together here. Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow!

Fatih Taskiran