The Pilgrims, a band of Protestant outcasts, saw themselves as fulfilling this biblical story. In coming to the New World, they, too, had to cross a tumultuous sea, arrive in an untested wilderness and create a new "Promised Land."

After the war, it was Cecil B. DeMille who turned Moses into a full-throated symbol of the American century. Released 54 years ago next week, The Ten Commandments became the fifth-highest-grossing movie of all time.

For 400 years, one figure stands out as the surprising symbol of America. One person has inspired more Americans than any other. His name is Moses.

You, too, can be a seder know-it-all. Herewith are selected seder talking points to help you steer your Passover conversation away from the same tired jokes about matzah and constipation.