The 10 Most Popular News Stories of 2012

2012 has seen many important and influential events culturally, politically, medically, and otherwise.

Although we’d like to believe the Internet is used primarily to educate the masses, share insights, participate in global initiatives, and provide a platform for social change, site traffic tells us otherwise.

Sure, readers visited our site to read about the Gaza conflict, international elections and foreign policy, medical breakthroughs, and human interest stories… but 2012’s most popular articles feature Scarlet Johansson’s stolen nude photos, a list of famous hot Jews, and Kim Kardashian’s apology for offensive tweeting.

Check out our list of Shalom life’s most read stories of 2012. Which of these stories do you feel should be celebrated?

10. Meet Your Jewish and Israeli Olympic Athletes

In just two days, the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games will take place in London, England, marking the start of the 30^th summer Olympiad. Jews from around the world, including New Zealand, the U.S., Australia, Canada, and of course Israel will take be taking part as they each compete on behalf of their respective countries... Read more.

9. Shia LeBeouf Goes Full Frontal in Sigur Ros Video

Nothing is left to the imagination, at least apropos of Shia LaBeouf’s private bits, in Sigur Rós’ new video for “Fjögur Píanó”. The heady 7-minute film shot by Israeli director, Alma Har’el, features LaBeouf (and yes, in one scene his penis as well), dancer/actress Denna Thomsen, interpretive dance, butterflies, and plenty of metaphor in the guise of hallucinogenic sequences... Read more.

8. The 18 Most Iconic Jewish Photos Ever Taken

It’s been said that a picture is worth a thousand words. Shalom Life recently searched the virtual darkrooms of photographers across the globe in a quest to find, and provide to you, 18 of the most iconic, timeless, and relevant Jewish-themed photos. Whether these famous photos are the representation of events of historical significance, political importance, watershed moments or just plain, good old fun, sit back, relax and enjoy these precious 18,000 words of Jewish life!... Read more.

7. Top 50 Hottest Jewish Men (1-10)

Shalom Life just spent the last two weeks honoring the 50 Hottest Jewish Women & 50 Hottest Jewish Men. Thanks for joining us in our celebration of the most talented, intelligent, funny, and beautiful Jews in the world. Here are the Top 10 Hottest Jewish Men...Read more.

6. Kim Kardashian Apologizes for Offensive Israel-Palestine Tweets

You have to give the Kardashian family credit. It’s one thing to have a series of successful reality shows, a “leaked” sex tape, and a celebrity fragrance. It’s a completely different can of worms to worm your way into the Israel/Palestine conflict… but, of course, Kim Kardashian has managed to do it… Read more.