In The News: Department of History
When we learn about famous historical figures, we often hear about a spouse, rival or colleague, but rarely about their friends. Yet people in the public eye have a tendency to cross paths—even if they’re known for different contributions to society and don’t live near each other. This can lead to some unlikely friendships. Here are six examples of famous pairs you probably didn’t know were friends.

The U.S. commercial gaming industry generated nearly $72 billion in revenue in 2024, according to the American Gaming Association’s recently released “State of the States 2025.” It marks the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking revenue.
You know the Goodmans (of Vegas mayoral fame) and the Reids (our airport's namesake) — but did you know that a surprising number of our politicians actually come from generations of elected power? Co-hosts Sarah Lohman and Dayvid Figler talk with UNLV history professor Michael Green about the political dynasties of Las Vegas and if a legacy last name still matters as much as it used to.

The Las Vegas Police Protective Association closed a poll on Friday asking its members to consider striking, but gave no indication on whether a work stoppage — which could be considered illegal under state law — will be authorized.

While a ceasefire seems to still hold between Iran and Israel after a 12-day war, there are a lot of questions about what happens next. There are many unknowns when it comes to this region.
When the castle gates of Excalibur swung open for the first time on June 19, 1990, the medieval-themed megaresort at the south end of the Las Vegas Strip was the largest hotel in the world. Thirty-five years later, the castle still stands, and the casino hotel’s allure continues to resonate with visitors.

When the castle gates of Excalibur swung open for the first time on June 19, 1990, the medieval-themed megaresort at the south end of the Las Vegas Strip was the largest hotel in the world. Thirty-five years later, the castle still stands, and the casino hotel’s allure continues to resonate with visitors.

When the castle gates of Excalibur swung open for the first time on June 19, 1990, the medieval-themed megaresort at the south end of the Las Vegas Strip was the largest hotel in the world. Thirty-five years later, the castle still stands, and the casino hotel’s allure continues to resonate with visitors.

With recent violence in Minnesota and riots in Los Angeles, concerns are mounting about the potential rise of political violence across the United States. Dr. Michael Green, an associate professor in the University of Nevada, Las Vegas's Department of History, weighed in on the issue. He emphasized the importance of understanding the underlying causes of such violence.

As the investigation continues into the tragedy in Minnesota that left State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband dead, as well as State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife wounded, News 3 spoke with Dr. Michael Green, an associate professor in the University of Nevada, Las Vegas', Department of History about the rise in political violence across the country.
On this episode of The Middle Ground Radio Show, Tom Letizia welcomes Dr. David G. Schwartz — acclaimed author, gaming historian, and UNLV Ombuds — for a deep conversation on the rich history and evolving future of Las Vegas. From his global journey through the origins of gambling in Roll the Bones, to the golden era glamour of At the Sands, and the bold vision of Jay Sarno in Grandissimo, Dr. Schwartz shares powerful insights about what made Las Vegas what it is — and where it might be heading.
Since at least the early 1900s, Las Vegas has been known as Sin City, a place meant to be an adult playground where anything goes. Historically, that playground included a heavy dose of gambling and alcohol, along with all manner of nightlife.