"Fun Facts Saturday" "World History" I got excited when I learned I am the direct descendant of William the Conqueror (1027-1135). He is my 26th great-grandfather. I felt special. Maybe I was entitled to a castle? But then I discovered he has an estimated 13 million direct descendants alive today. So, I could inherit 1/13 … Continue reading I’m the Illegitimate Descendant of King William “the Conqueror”
"Fun Facts Saturday" The Crown Jewels of England Those who watched the recent coronation of King Charles III got a glimpse of the most precious object in the world - the Imperial State Crown. This priceless object is part of the Crown Jewels of England, kept under incredible protection in the Tower of London. When … Continue reading The World’s Most Precious Object
"Fun Facts Saturday" "World History" The Mighty Impregnable Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh Castle is a massive castle built on a volcanic hill overlooking the capital city of Scotland. The castle was very important strategically. Whoever held the castle, ruled Scotland. The castle was considered impregnable. On three sides of the castle are towering, sheer cliffs. On the tops … Continue reading The Mighty Edinburgh Castle Fell Due to the Mistake of One Love-sick Soldier
"Fun Facts Saturday" Jeremy Bentham – “Father of Utilitarianism” Jeremy Bentham (1748-1832) is an 18th Century English jurist, philosopher, and the “Father of Utilitarianism.” Utilitarianism rejects absolute right or wrong. Instead, “right and wrong are determined by what brings the greatest happiness to the greatest number of people.” Or in short, “the greatest good for … Continue reading Philosopher Jeremy’s Bentham’s 275-year-old body is on permanent public display in the Student Center at University College London
"Fun Facts Saturday" We visited famous Gretna Green when we picked up our daughter from her mission in Scotland. In 1754, Parliament passed the Marriage Act, which prevented people under the age of 21 from marrying in England without parental consent. If the bride or groom was under 21 any of the parents could object … Continue reading “Wedding Capital of the World” – Gretna Green, Scotland
"Fun Facts Saturday" The Flags of Ulster and Northern Ireland are unique. They have a bloody red hand in the center. Ulster Banner (Home of my Irish Ancestors) According to legend, there was a proclamation with a challenge. The first person to "touch" or “lay hand” on the ground of Ulster would have claim to … Continue reading Why does the Flag of Northern Ireland have a bloody red hand in the middle?
"Columbus Day" (“In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue.”) For centuries, Christopher Columbus (1451-1506) has been revered and celebrated for his lasting contributions to humanity. Historians agree that Columbus was “a courageous and brilliant navigator and explorer during the age of European exploration.” “His voyages revealed two continents new to Europe and bridged the gap … Continue reading Judging Columbus – The “Columbus Exchange”
"Fun Facts Saturday"In Honor of the Recent Passing of Queen Elizabeth II Creation of the British "Union Jack" Flag The British "Union Jack" flag is a combination of the 3 flags of England (Saint George Cross), Scotland (Saint Andrew Cross), and Northern Ireland (Saint Patrick Cross). (When the Union Jack flag was created, Wales was … Continue reading Did you know – the British flag combines the flags of England (St. George), Scotland (St. Andrew), and N. Ireland (St. Patrick)?
"Fun Facts" "World History" The "Politest," "Bravest," "Fiercest" Warriors I have always been intrigued by the Gurkha Regiment of the British Army. From Nepal, these 5’ 3” fighters have a reputation for being the politest soldiers and the bravest and fiercest warriors in the world. Their motto: “Better to die than be a coward.” In … Continue reading The Legendary Gurkha Soldiers: “Bringing a knife to a gun fight” and “Who need parachutes?”
"Historical Saturday" Slavery Throughout History Egyptian Slavery All ancient civilizations engaged in the horrific practice of slavery. The primary source of slaves was war captives. Chattel slavery was accepted throughout the world for over 10,000 years. It was not until the abolitionist movement in America and Europe in the 18th Century that slavery became broadly … Continue reading Slavery in Perspective: Past and Present
The London Edition 