'Past Mistakes'

David Mountain studied Biology and Geology, worked therefore in Kenya and Java, moved to Edinburgh where he now considers himself an expert on History.

Don't we all.

His basic premise is that we have been lied to about History and we have not noticed yet, he will put this right.  I'm so glad no-one else has tried this before him.  

Mountain begins with an overview of how history was viewed through western eyes, where else would it be viewed from if we were here David?  Informing us how wrong the bible was, and it appears almost everybody else also, it may be his view coloured his reading of history somewhat.

That said, if we allow for his overlong chapters filled with words, his insistence on using quotes in what I call an American manner throughout the book, and his opinions to the forefront, I still think the book is worth a read.

He exposes Pythagoras as a fraud, or at least the idea of his mathematical genius as a fraud.  His chapter here goes into the rise of the myth of the man, while his fame spread and his followers were considered 'hippies' by Greeks after his death his myth increased as it does.  As we know most mathematics were developed in ancient Sumer long before the Greeks appeared on the scene, they of course developed this and happily take the credit.  

The author discusses interestingly Barbarians, Vandals, Romans and Islam.  While the west fought over land it is true Islam had many scientists, mathematicians and preserved many Greek documents from long before.  Did we not know this?  

An interesting chapter also concerns Christopher Columbus and his discovery of America, well Dominican Republic that is.  The image offered here is not pleasant.  The promise of gold and slaves and future wealth did not do the man much good and he, like so many others, ended in ignominy. 

A sordid tale well told, and again with many pages.  

So he continues putting the world to tight mentioning how we mistreat women, and his tale of the Wild West not being as wild as the west is today.  He implies the westerns on offer were fake!  Who would have thought this?  Well we all knew that and this chapter again is well worth a read.

However, while there are good chapters in this book it is written by an untrained history lover, one who has read well, possibly without much opposition to his opinions at home.  An overview so wide cannot be totally exact but it is worth a look and will keep the reader entertained.

At the end he mentions how we can read into history from where we stand, and this is very true, I am not convinced he has understood that this is what he has done on several pages himself.   

Shakespeare Café, Braintree

Shakespeare Café

Having risen at the usual time, even though it is a Monday Bank Holiday, I sat lamenting my life for a while at the laptop, including lamenting the fact that the spare laptop would not switch on last night, and downed coffee in a vain attempt to waken up.

By 9:30 I decided to venture out into the chilly sunshine and cross the greenery in the park.  The need for a small bit of green is within us all, though not if it is growing on the wall.  So, off I trotted, passing only a couple of dog walkers, and a young dad proving eh is a 'modern man' by walking the two Labradors along with a pram.  The dogs were too much under control, but dad will think he is 'strong.'

I wonder what my nieces would say to him?

Slowly hobbling up the hill I decided to breakfast in the 'Shakespeare Café.'  You will note the spellchecker ensures 'café' is always spelt correctly!  This was indeed a good idea.  Not long after 10 ish I was served by one of the two friendly staff.  These places make it easy today, the menu has set breakfasts etc, and all you do is choose one and ask for 'Set 2 please.'  This gave me a decent sausage, two eggs, on fried bread, two bacon, two hash browns, a wee bowl of beans, tea and two thick slices of bread, all for £9 plus small tip.

As I ordered it did not sound much, but in time a large plate appeared and I realised just how much there was here.  By the time I looked at the two toasts I thought I might not finish it all!  But I did!

A very good clean café, with friendly staff, usually lots of customers, today I arrived when it was quiet, and I certainly intend to make use of this place again.  Neatly laid out, tidy, well cared for and I suspect a great many regular customers.  I recommend this place!

Of course, now I am stuffed I can hardly move.

After this, I carried my increased bulk into Sainsburys, chatting to a Labrador pup guarding the owner at the door, and picking up a bag of wee orange things without a label thus holding up the ever growing queue at the other end.  I blethered my way out of their unspoken fuming, and ran for the door.

Altogether it has been a good morning, now to see what can go wrong with the day.

As I left the Kirk yesterday I sauntered along a road I have not walked for years.  The long way home took me past things often noticed but never pictured before.  The old museum habit of taking shots of anything remotely of historical interest has not died.  So, the school sign, declaring it was Essex built in 1929 somewhat boastfully is taken.  Not a school anymore, but still used for kids in some way. 

At the bottom of the hill stands the 1930s pub 'The Oak.'  Now long changed use it stands on the busy  corner.  This picture shows how much things have changed in just over 100 or so years.  

The 1930s building stands slightly to the right of this ancient one.   Judging by the motorbikes and the fashions in the picture this may be around 1914 time.  The distant houses have gone, industrial use now, but at first sight, apart from the rickets, 60 hour weeks, and low pay, life appears more leisurely. 

Only those who know their history would realise this lonely, and probably unused light appears to be part of the original 'Lake & Elliot' factory.  Most buildings remain, all in some sort of use, but only one such as I would jump to a conclusion, probably wrong, that this is ancient.

I limped home, getting slower as I moved, wondering if anyone tends these plants that appear to grow wild at the side of the road?  Possibly the council tend them, but I have never seen any action here.  Still, this is better than another fence, however well painted.

Homing Pigeon?

I noticed this chap a few days ago while limping towards Sainsburys.  I was impressed by the efforts to hinder pigeons, of which there are many sleeping on the roof here overnight, from perching on the windowsills.  I am always impressed by birds as they consider the many ways in which they can not only make it through the day, but also improve their lives by simple actions.  Here, one bird, by the simple action of smashing the window, possibly while flying at high speed with his eyes closed, has gained entry to the top floor of this very ancient building.  

This building stands in what is called 'Little Square.'  This marks the spot where the early market first arose over 800 years ago.  This came about by the Bishop of London, who owned this side of the town, persuaded King John, he of ill-repute, to allow a market here weekly.  King John considered for a few moments the tax raised by such a market, his debts obtained by fighting very badly when claiming France as his kingdom, and allowed the market to begin, and added one down in Chelmsford around this time also.  The tax played on his mind I reckon, more than the cabbages available on the ground.

This building, wood and plaster, has stood here for a great many years, I suspect several hundred, but I have not got that information to hand.  

The block of houses contains four shops on the ground floor, as a market should, most are in good condition still, however, the one at the end, where the pigeon roosts, is somewhat less tidy.  There is a shop at a the bottom, which I think is now closed.  A first floor for accommodation for those who like to 'live above the shop,' and this top floor for pigeons to look down on you.  Like too many shops in the town life appears far from this one.  I think the owner, or tenant, has another along the way, but I could be wrong.  Either way, someone needs to look into the building, accommodation and a shop all in one, in the centre of town, just off the main drag?  Someone will make money here surely?   

Lauriston Castle

 

This is one of my highly intelligent, beautiful, and clever great nieces.  This one obtained her parchments in Archaeology, and has begun to make short video's of Edinburgh and Scotland's history.  

I am so proud of this lassie.  Good looking, wise, clever, with bouncy personality, knowledgeable, and well able to put over her knowledge to inform and entertain us.

She is a bit like me...

 

What?...oh!

A short video and hopefully you will like it.

 

Grave Thoughts

Working my way down the new Twitter stream this morning it struck me how many people have died.  Now this is not new, people have been dying since people began, in case you did not notice, and sadly, one day we will join them.  It is a thing to be noticed that there are more dead than there are living in this world, and the number of the dead increases all the time.  

I was becoming more aware of this as people I once watched on TV or listened to on radio have departed.  At my age when musicians from the 'Punk' era are dying it makes me feel old, as they are still in their 60s.  Yet more and more people who became famous, or perhaps infamous, have departed and they are still doing this.  Singers, TV personalities, comedians, footballers, actors, troublemakers, strikers, politicians, good and bad, all pass on.

In my family only two of the original 6 remain, and I keep reminding my sister that she is much older than I. The aunts and uncles have long gone, friends, neighbours, those who make up my past have moved on.  The life I grew up into has long gone, and most people with it.  How strange.

Yet this is life as it has always been.

My mother lived until 94, all her friends went long before her.  Friends and family from her youth have long passed on, their sons and daughters also!  All that remained were memories and some fading photographs.  

Of course, not all we knew have been missed.  Many we saw regularly on TV or in the press ought to have benefited society by going sooner.  A great many harmed society in many ways, politicians, businessmen, celebrities, and spam merchants.  These are not missed by many.  

Others are missed, even if we knew them only from TV programmes, mews headlines, and goal scoring feats at the football.  Many a musician is missed today as there is no one to equal them now.  In the locale there are always people who benefit the area by doing those little jobs, such a 'Lollipop Lady,' escorting kids over busy roads, or by just keeping an eye on disabled or lonely folks.  These are irreplaceable.  

In our town, population around 40,000, each one has a story to tell.  Some well known faces, some well known to the constabulary.  Each known to someone.  How many have lived here since Neolithic times when a handful of people foraged in these then woods with stone implements to survive?  Since the town blossomed 2000 years ago many have walked the lanes, built houses, had lives and loves, fought wars, made babies, traded goods and services, and fought for better conditions.  Holy days were celebrated, as there were few other holidays, some were serfs, others made it big.  While most worked the fields there were others who travelled the world, usually in an army or a boat.  Many went to the new world, others were forced to Botany Bay!  Still other came for the work on offer and their descendants remain.  

When I worked in Maida Vale Hospital at night, I often wondered about the many who had gone before.  The doctors who had created the Neurological studies during the 19th century had left their pictures in the Board Room.  The nurses, passing doctors, porters and other staff were rarely shown this way.  Occasional names arose but many staff had worked for years in the building and at that time they were now forgotten.  Just like we will be in the days ahead.  

Depressing though this may appear it is not so.  This is life as it is.  We all go through it, some more easily than others, and the good news is the bad days that surround us, which are not as bad as they have been or could be for us, will end one day.  The rogues who hamper us will meet their end, the situations that are difficult will soon leave us, and possibly we will see better days yet.

I confess, if it was not for Jesus it could be a depressing time for me.  However, I look forward to better days, and life is already improving as the days indeed are getting longer.  Nothing better than rising with the sun shining in the kitchen window, and the rush hour beginning with the setting sun brightening the skies outside my window.

A Bit About Britain

I was persuaded (that's another word for 'ordered') to obtain this book.  This I did, read it I did, and shove it on the bookshelf I am about to do.

The author has a website devoted to bits about Britain.  This, as you know, usually means 'England.'  The author is English, claims a Scots wife, claims a university education in History, and claims to have 'reason.'  

The book itself is an excellent example of turning a blog into a book.  Whether this was the original idea or not it has certainly worked.  Covering the UK from the earliest known dates, and dates as you know are always changeable, he works forward until the period after the second world war.  The method chosen chows how difficult it is to deal with history in a simple manner.  Far too much must be left out simply because of lack of space, include too much and people turn away.  This book manages to cover the whole period remarkably well.

Clearly there are areas to disagree with, what historian would ever accept a book as flawless?  The authors chapter on reason is clearly unreasonable.  He omits to say where his great pride in his reason comes from, nor why we ought to accept his opinion as 'reasonable,' when clearly it is far from that.  His view is clearly from an English perspective, his understanding of Scotland somewhat at variance from mine, and the very nature of the beast means much information a reader such as I wish to see must be omitted.

That said there is much credit in this book.  In fact, when considering the number of asylum seekers arriving on these shores it became clear to me that most will be very ignorant of the land in which they arrive.  When I came to this region of English wilderness I sought out the local press, visited the library, went to the museum and bought a small booklet detailing the towns history, and discovered what it was, or had been about.  This book could do the same for newcomers to the land.  Instead of absurd questionnaires designed to stop people taking up residence this book ought to be given to those allowed to stay.  Clearly this simple, one off book, will teach them more about UK history than what they will learn from the far from free press, TV or talking to neighbours.  

While this book has faults it clearly is ideal as a quick review of UK history, and also details a Timeline that is quick and easy to follow.  Those who find delight in certain passages will soon visit their local museums and libraries to discover more of their chosen time period. 

I recommend this book as a quick history of the UK.    

How Doggerland Sank Beneath The Waves (500,000-4000 BC) // Prehistoric E...

A Trip to the Barbers.

When people begin to offer me money "For a cup of tea," as I stand vacantly looking into shop windows, I realise it is time for a haircut.  Just as well the beard has not got far or I would be 'moved on' by the constabulary.  That is, if there were any passing by.  The days of the local Bobby have long gone, the police constantly tell us they can reach an incident quicker by car than by having a man walk the streets.  There is indeed truth in this.  However, shoppers in town centres feel more security when a man in uniform passes by occasionally.  This also gives more 'intelligence' regarding the people on the ground when a local copper is on the beat.  I note a nearby town has two 'Special Police officers' who operate on a beat regularly.  This is the type of thing that must be encouraged, as well as asking retired officers to work a couple of days occasionally also.  Many would as this would mean little overtime, much less stress, and quite often successful policing on the cheap.

Being the Wednesday Market the usual collection of stallholders were improving their tans while hoping to improve their wealth.  The sun shone, the clouds floated, and the English perambulated by in a Summer like manner, in spite of the chill in the wind.  Did that chubby lass with almost nothing on atop not notice the breeze?  Did her fat protect her as it does whales and Walrus's?  I am not sure where that comparison came from. 

I looked the other way as I passed the cake stall, wandered through the centre hoping for some action, which did not occur, and hobbled back down the newly laid pedestrianised High Street.  To imagine two way traffic going down here only 50 years ago blows the mind away, especially as buses went two ways also.  At least one photograph shows a 'coming together' at the corner of Sandpit Street, now 'Lane.'  Quite how they extracted the single decker from the corner shop I know not.     

I wandered along, tempted by the coffee shops but not by the bunting displayed everywhere for the monarchs Jubilee.  Small kids on bikes or scooters raced past, first one way then the other, mother seemingly unaware they were in the thoughts of several dodging their travels.  A black Labrador dog waited with the owner outside one shop, rising to greet someone who came out to speak to it, who then passed an item to the boss, and returned inside.  The dog was pleased with any acknowledgement, are they not all like that?  

I turned the corner and entered New Street.  Once this was notorious.  Four public houses stood here, three were renown for their 'entertainment.'  The Three Tuns, also known as 'Little Hell,'  The George Tavern,' also known as 'Great Hell,' and the 'Green Man, this was known to all as 'Perdition!'  It may surprise you to know that the 'Cage,' the town 'Lock up,' much in use until a Police Station was erected, was located at the bottom of this street.  Two 6 ft cells often entertained visitors as much as the pubs.  The 'Three Tuns,' has long been absorbed into other buildings.  'The George long since knocked down and rebuilt as shops and offices, and the 'Green Man' now a house, though I think in fact it is now offices. 

My barber, sorry, Hairdresser, was empty when I arrived.  Being market day he has less customers than usual.  He complained that on market day "...people just come to shop, no-one comes for a haircut!"  As the one man just about to leave was also a pensioner this meant little profit for the Bar.. hairdresser today.  There again, £9:50 is a lot for a haircut, especially when some of his customers have so little hair unlike I.  

but This man likes himself, he is not so keen on me.  Most of his customers are 'Brexiteer' English types, who share his views and predilections.  I must be careful when I speak as a man with a sharp pair of scissors is not a man to argue with when roused.  His desire to speak well of Boris Johnson was indeed a trying time.  However, we agreed that Boris had indeed, "Spat in the face of his voters," and almost agreed he ought to be hung up.  

One thing was clear, Boris spoke for such as he, and I suspect many here.  Boris has touched the English Imperialist heart, he has made them believe he will stop all those black men spoiling 'their' country, and they still believe in him.  This when they know him to be a liar, untrustworthy, unfit for the job, yet many will still support him come election time.

No wonder dictators have long time support.  How  can it be ended?

I stumbled home across the park, greeted by a dog with a ball in its mouth.  It did not want to throw it, the Beagle (?) just wanted to greet me (twice) and hide behind the seat with the ball.  He had no intention of letting me touch his ball!  He gave every evidence of being happy, though finding the heat a bit much.

Thrilled with my popularity, with dogs, I came home to find the Blackbird singing for me.  As I badly concocted a form of lunch he disappeared, his place later taken by the wood pigeon who normally takes that spot.  

After lunch I played with my mobile phone.  I deleted things that were no longer required, attempted to delete a call from the other day and ended up calling a man on holiday in Amsterdam!  I could not work out how to stop the call!  What sort of an idiot designed these things?  Why are they so complicated? The laptop is so much easier to operate, why not the phone?  Bah!  Now, two texts at Amsterdam prices, prices which increased after Brexit, I have no idea how much this has cost us and am afraid to look.  I will hear in a week or so mind...

Lazy Friday: Rome:

F.F.Bruce, New Testament History

 

What a great book this is.  The late F.F. Bruce published this book first in 1971, a year well before most of you were born.  This edition came later and arrived at my door later still via 'World of Books,' as a second hand bargain.

The book says what it means on the cover, New Testament history, and that is what you get.  While Bruce is an academic this book is very readable for the average person.  It has notes and references on every page enhancing, not detracting from the subject.

Bruce refers to the years previous to our time, the gap between Malachi and Matthew, covering the Persians who ended the Old Testament, the Greeks after Alexander, and the Romans who dominate our period.  We pass through the Herodians, the Roman governors, the various 'philisophical schools,' at the time.  The religious outlook was varied and we explore the High Priests, Pharisees & Sadducees, and the Essenes are also covered.  Bruce seeks to gve us an understanding from a wide range of contemporary available documents. 

When Jesus arrives the land was filled with a Messianic hope, and a variety of messiah's were around throughout that century.  We then touch on John the Baptist and his unfortunate demise, then much time is spent understanding Jesus, what did he mean and what does he represent.  The cross, what was it for?

Bruce then covers the church immediately after the crucifixion, and the worldwide spread as believers moved willingly or unwillingly from Jerusalem.  Time is given to cover Paul and Peter and the problems inside and outside of the young church, continuing into the following century.

I found this book helpful for understanding the world of the time as it is important to see Jesus in context or we fail to understand how he was seen by the people.  If you wish to know God you must see him in action as he walked the earth.  However, you must understand the world in which he moved before his death.  

The book offers knowledge, it also indicates that following Jesus could end in crucifiction for you and I, he meant it when he said 'Take up your cross daily.'  

I recommend this old, but worthy book.

 

Waterloo to Southwark - Most Excellent London History Walk

Ancient & Medieval Worlds lecture 1: Mesopotamia part 1

 

Thought some of you might like this.  This is the first in a series of short lectures about the distant past, which some of you may remember...   

There are about a dozen or so in the list.  I have watched this one and found it quite easy to listen to.  Putting it on YouTube allows you to see what the others in line are.

The City of Abraham by Edward Platt

                                               Waterstones

 

At last, I have finished a book!  

Through no fault of my own books are piling up on the 'To Read' shelf.  I do not know where they have come from!  Some of them have been lying about for years it appears.  Others have bookmarks in them from long ago so they will have to be restatred, from the beginning I suspect, at some time in the future.  

However, I have finished this one.

Hebron is a very contested city in Israel held territory, taken during one of the wars.  To Jews it is the city in which David first ruled as King over the southern part of the land, then called Judah.  David reigned there after the fall of Saul and seven years later he became king over all of Israel both the northern kingdom, later called 'Israel,' and Judah.  The united kingdom settled and happy under King David, a time of joy and certainty under his rule.  This became divided after his sone Solomon died, the wealthy kingdom soon split into two once again.  

Hebron is important to Jews and Muslims as Abraham himself was buried in the cave nearby where a huge building now stands over the place considered to be the cave in which he was buried. Abraham as you know not only had Issac as a son, his grandson Jacob became the name from which Israel is known throughout the Old Testament, he also had Ishmael via Hagar and he is seen as the father of the Arabs. No Muslims in those far off days as you know.   

Today many Jewish settlers have moved in and built their Settlements over many parts of the city, including the highest point considered to be the centre of old Hebron, a city dating back eons into the past.

The writer, the typical English middle class trendy, goes to Hebron with the intention to avoid taking sides, as if!  Folk like him already have a leaning towards the Arabs however little they know or understand the middle east.  There again, reading the book it becomes very easy to take sides with the Arabs, the Settlers, protected by Border Guards, Soldiers and Police, do not make themselves attractive, and as I found myself in Israel eons ago, Israeli Jews are not that welcoming to tourists even though they depend on their money.  

The land some say is divided between Jews and Arabs, it is however divided much more than that.  The Israeli population are themselves divided into many factions, many on the right, many on the left, also there are religious Jews divided into similar factions. Add to that the division between those that came from Spain with those arriving from Russia, and then there are holocaust survivors, or indeed those who feel shame at avoiding capture.  

Likewise the Arabs have divisions, Fatah and Hamas, tribal divisions, those in Hebron from those in the North, all making the simple choice of who to support difficult.  All however, are trapped in a war zone featuring occasional outbursts of serious violence and constant daily stone throwing from one side or another, and always the others fault!  

Simple people claim there is a simple answer to the division in the land, reading this book I found a constant depression returning as there is no obvious answer to the mix.  Everybody has a claim, everybody is right, and everybody goes back deep into History for their claim.

Palestinians claim to have been there since time began, I am sure some DNA tests would reveal many indeed have history going back thousands of years.  However, so many have moved through this very small space, many remaining when the invaders moved on, it would reveal also a mixture of middle east heritage from many sides.  I wonder if such a test has been conducted?  Maybe the results were to inflamable to reveal?

The Hebrews certainly possessed the land from the time of Joshua, around 1200 BC possibly, until driven out by the Romansd after the war of 70 AD and the revolt of 135 AD?  Some Jews might well have remained though most were exiled.  

For well over a hundred years possession has belonged to the Jews, they clearly are in control, and yet it is possible for Jew and Arab to live together quite happily, there is a desire for this amongst many in Hebron and elsewhere.  However, on both sides others disagree, and all are armed.

The settlers are another thing altogether.  I had the idea settlers were mostly American Jews who considered themselves John Wayne fighting the Indians, and in Hebron this can be seen amomg many there.  The settlers do not come across as open-minded, considerate or lovable.  Indeed, their violent and aggressive behaviour would easily temp us to join with the Palestinians locals in throwing stones.  When one video was revealed though Israel TV indicating settlers behaviour in Hebron many Israeli's turned against them.  It also shocked the settlers to realise they did not represent all Jewish people.  

I naturally wanted to know more about the ancient Historical sites, however, the settlers have erected their homes above the main 'dig,' the part of Hebron David walked and many have ruled from.  There will be no 'digs' for many years.  

The Tomb of Abraham also turns out to be somewhat disappointing.  Although illegal to dig down underneath some have in the past gone down through tunnels and found ancient caves with bones and fragments, but sadly no proper modern archaeology can be conducted.  It will be obvious that with all the passing armies since Abraham was buried some 4000 years ago these caves, if indeed these are the correct places, will have been ransacked many times by the curious seeking riches.  So, another Historical site turns out to be not what it might be after all.  

I am just glad Hebron is Hebron, and this may well be the place David ruled but no work to prove this can occur these days.

The author attempts to talk to all people in the city, Arabs, Jews, even an occasional settler, and we see the human cost of what they call the 'occupation.'  We find soldiers, young, badly trained conscripts, bored, frightened by both sides, confused and angry, all hoping to go somewhere better than this.  The Police limited by the army, the army limited by settlers, the courts decisions often ignored, and the rule of law changing according to someones whim.

And yet we see people on both sides happy to trade with one another, to use the markets, even to meet and discuss on occasions.  As always the majority just wish to get on with their lives and ignore the troubles around them.  It must be remembered that many Jews and Christians lived reasonably happy lives for generations amongst the Arabs, rare was the conflict.  So we must question why, since the end of the 19th century, has such a situation arisen?  Jews were found across the middle east, now none are found in Iraq, and others flee to Israel or the US!  

I think it would help if the author, Edward Platt, knew and understood the biblical  background better.  Another ignorant of Christianity, he quotes from the Authorised Version of the Bible (he calls it the KJV) even though venacular bibles have been around for 70 years, indicating his desire to put the bible down rather than learn from it, and his knowledge of Islam is similarly short.  Clearly he has made an effort to read what a Sunday School could have taught him but this however, has not opened his understanding of the people, the background nor the future of this land, which is a serious failing in this book.  

The book being published in 2012 is slightly out of date, nevertheless it gives an insight into the people of the land today, some idea of the Historical background, and, for me, a depressing knowledge that no easy answer can be found.  The book however, is worth a read, just to get one man's insight into the people living in this mix.  

God remains in control of this land, however, it is clear the people living there have not sought, or if they have sought, have not found his answer, to the situation.  If the Good Lord has indeed put the Hebrews back in his land we cannot remove them.  But are these his Hebrews?  Are they living his way?  Jesus is their Messiah and until they know him they will not find his answer for the land.  Until his Spirit moves there life will continue like this.  However, God is there, and when we see Hebrews turn to his Messiah Jesus en masse we will know that soon his Son will return.

 

Fake History

Fake History by Otto English

 

Otto English writes this book to expose what he considers to be an understanding of History that is incorrect.  He is also having a go at Boris and his fans, which is quite clear throughout.  In Otto's mind we are all believing historical facts that are not facts at all, his mission is to seek out the true situation behind such History.

Obviously some of us with an interest in History will have discovered the truth is never found at first sight, this is even more obvious where a war situation is concerned.  Propaganda, good and bad, is always to the fore during a war.  People's experience, and evidence on the ground added to an individuals knowledge of the war and the situation in which they find themselves concerned means people are not fooled as often as Otto appears to believe.

However, that said it is a book worth reading.

Churchill is naturally the first under review, Flat earth follows, Columbus and all that, War propaganda, the Royals, Curry and other foodstuffs, the Conquistadors and Abraham Lincoln are among the subjects interrogated.  Obviously Churchill is the starting point.  The target of this book other than Boris are the tabloid readers, and hacks, who perpetuate the idea of Winston as the 'Greatest Prime Minister.'  Various people have written about Churchill, including himself of course.  After the war he collected material from the conflict and produced his History of the 'Second World War,' in which he comes over as the great leader, the wise strategist, and the man who won the war.  Lord Alanbrooke of course, who had been Chief of the Imperial General Staff and the man who actually won the war, was not impressed to be mentioned only thrice!  Still, it made money and built Winston's fame, and thatw as what mattered.  Boris Johnson, the fantasist who is now Prime Minister because of the nations sin, also wrote a book about Churchill, poor at that by all accounts.  Roy Jenkins scribbled a fast moving one reviewed on these pages, and no doubt many more will appear.  

English makes every attempt to break into the tabloid fantasy of Churchill and offer the unwritten (in his mind) side of things.  From my memory the 'unwritten' did not require writing as most people during the war well understood Churchill, 'Warmonger' was the general impression I heard, but Otto is writing for the tabloid reader of today, few of whom have read much other than their 'Daily Express' over the last 70 years and are happy with an image that does not demand they think, nor lose their nationalistic fantasy.

Each chapter does swerve away from the main subject thereby allowing a wide variety of stories, usually relevant, to appear.  These are often humerous, always interesting, but not all are surprising to me.  Most people with a History interest will have glanced at such tales before, however, it is good to see so many put in one place.  I enjoyed a great many of them.

However, there are failures.

The writier, born and educated at an Essex public school and now living in gentrified south east London, reveals all the arrogance and self importance of such a background.  Otto, as seen on his Twitter account, does not like opposition, nor does he like to think he might be wrong.  Wrong however he is.  His lack of understanding of the Christian Church is obvious, he reflects the ignorance of the Guardian reader here.  His Essex knowledge of Scotland, one I am well aware off, is as limited as might be expected. To Otto nationalism is dangerous, full of terrors and to be avoided.  Such an attitude can only be found in an Englishman living in England.  His writing re Charles Stuart falls down here also, prevaded as it is with English imperialism throughout.  Charles of course is considered a joke by most Scots.  

Far too much time is taken up by his diatribe on Adolf Hitler not being an artist.  Pages are wasted on Otto's dislike of Adolf.  We have all seen his paintings, nice but not deep, and why so much is written here I fail to understand, a page or two only was required.  Abraham Lincoln also is offered as a man at variance with the public image, and we are left wondering if Otto really cares about this or if he is just attacking people because they are hero's to some?  Indeed a chapter is included concerning Ghenghis Khan as if he was the subject of much discussion in the world today!  When did you last discuss Khan and his empire?  No, not me either.  Much has been written about him but rarely is he mentioned outside of those studying that particular era.  

This is however, a good book, well worth a read.  The 'Daily Mail' reader, who will not read it, is the target of these pages.  And I suspect many of Otto's fans will enjoy this book as they too are ignorant of the tales enclosed.  History is not well taught in schools it appears, however, it is a wide ranging subject which causes many arguements (just ask in Europe 'Who started the Great War?' and see what I mean).  The EU has schools for the children of those working there, no History however, is taught unless by your own countrymen!   I bet Scots History was not taught there!  

It is worth reading, the stories entertain, the facts are usually good (but historians everywhere will pick fault as they do) and a good book for adolescent schoolkids as it is an easy read and I suspect will hold their attention.

Otto English, real name Andrew Scott, is a journalist who has written for many papers.  However, he is also one of those middle class Liberals who does not get out and about much, and is limited in his experiences by mixing with his own Ken.  Such men as you know fail to comprehend things those who have to work for a living have known for years.  Otto's views on life are repeated by his friends and upheld by his Twitter fans, yet they fail to see the world as it is all too often in my view.  I suggest for his next book he travels the nation.  Partly this is because I like such travel books, it is always interesting to see peoples views of what is actually there in the UK and not what they already believe, but also he will meet a wider range of views, some which will surprise him, some shock him, but he will produce another book worth reading.    

 

Duncan I and Afghanistan

 

Duncan I, Donnchad mac Crinain to you, 1001 - 1040, was King of Alba, Scotland to you, from 1034 -1040.  He was given the nickname Ant-Ilgarach, which, as you know, means 'sick.'  This may not be regarding his health, it may refer to his lack of ability, but who actually can be sure? 

His father Crinan was hereditary Lay Abbot of Dunkeld.  A Lay Abbot was one given the position in spite of having no formal religious position.  His mother, Bethóc ingen Maíl Coluim meic, (Of course I cut & Pasted it), was daughter of Malcolm II, a powerful King of Scots.  

Duncan became King on the death of his grandfather Malcolm II and this appears to have been an undisputed enthronement, though some suggest any possible alternatives had been 'removed' by Malcolm before his demise.  Whether Malcolm died in battle or on his death bed is disputed, but had he died in battle would Duncan have reigned?

Who Duncan married is also disputed though he he managed to produce two sons anyway, one later becoming King Malcolm III, King from 1058 - 1093, who became King by the simple expedient of bumping off 'Lulach,' Macbeth's stepson, and after him Donald III 'Donalbane,' Duncan I's other son became King.

Alongside Duncan rode his 'Dux' this was a man called 'Macbeth.'  This implies Malcolm realised the lack of talent in Duncan and ensured a powerful 'Dux' alongside him.  Macbeth certainly considered himself able to rule as we see later. 

In 1039, Duncan advanced into England and laid siege to Durham, not the easiest place to lay siege.  This followed on from the attack on Strathclyde by Earldred, Earl of Northumbria in 1038.  The result was disaster for Duncan and he slogged  home defeated.  

The next year he entered Moray and attacked Macbeth in an effort to ensure his two sons inherited the throne, this too was unfortunate as he was killed in the struggle on the hill and Macbeth became King.  The two sons escaped and later took up the throne in time.  

Any defamation written by English playrights can be burnt at this point. 

Duncan was buried near Elgin but they say he was later placed in Iona.  

 

The similarities beteen Scotland a thousand years ago and Afghanistan today are striking.  England also was a mass of warlords fighting for control, aided or otherwise by Danes who also considered they owned whatever was around.  While some kings were able to dispense justice and develop the economy of their land much time was also spent fighting of enemies both at home and abroad.  Other family lines decided they had a right to the throne, Danes from outside, various English from below, as well as weather, economy problems and ill health all had to be faced just as they do today.  The main difference today is that political weapons remove opponents, not the Claymore.

 

Double Dealing with Local History

Amazon

An excellent book!  Well worth a read.  I was given this a couple of ears ago and was put off reading it because I had ploughed my way through Max Hastings book 'The Secret War.'  That book, while interesting, takes a lot more reading than this one does.
Outside of the MI5 & MI6 government individuals mentioned the main stars are the intriguing, if not unbalanced, personnel who put their lives on the line as double crossing agents during the Second World War.  A Peruvian lass who liked to gamble, a Pole who wished to rule, a French woman who almost blew it when her dog was killed and a Spanish chicken farmer and a Serbian who like the woman.  All these turned into excellent double agents.  Many Germans who came into the country as spies had no intentions of wearing a uniform and getting bullied, pushed around and shot, spying was an easy out.  A few who landed were not up to the double agent game and were jailed, some too pro Nazi were executed, these few however played a big part in the final victory especially their work concerning D-Day 1944.
The agents completely fooled the German intelligence services.  Not only were they believed long after the war by some but medals were awarded by the Reich and an Iron Cross or two, and large amounts of cash, reached the spies in the UK.  Wars are won and lost on intelligence, and as we all now 'Military Intelligence' is often questioned by the troops at the sharp end.   
This is a fast moving book,well written with many details on the contacts between spies and their masters both at home and abroad.  The details are clear, the stories intriguing and by the end the biggest lie of all, that General Patton was going to land an army at the Pas de Calais, succeeded in forcing all the enemy generals to keep that area well protected for over a month, during which time the real invasion at Normandy has successfully taken place and began the move up north.  his lie went right to the top of the Reich with Adolf himself satisfied with his successful spies, even after the invasion was under way.
The war over they returned to he real world.  Some more successfully and happily than others.  Their tales are told here.  This is a book well worth a read, especially if you wish to take up spying, allowing for the fact that amongst the operatives aiding the lies to the Germans were men who were also sending all the information into Mr Stalin at the Kremlin.  It is often easier to find foreign spies than those amongst you.

Muscle aches tomorrow.  For no good reason I suddenly rose and cleaned the fridge this afternoon. This is one of the many 'to do' jobs that ought to be ignored.  Instead I got up and did it!  I think the strain of Lock Down is having an affect.

Indeed in these past few days the strain has shown.  My mind was very dull, confusion as to what to do, lack of ability to enjoy anything, and little of interest in anything available was becoming the norm.  Then this morning I came across this picture I took some time ago.  
Edward and Eliza Wicks have lain in the graveyard behind the Congregational Church in Bocking End for 140 years without troubling anyone.  I just thought this morning I might have a look to see if they were important.    It appears he may not have been important but he would have been known in the town, he was an Inland Revenue Officer.   Moving from London, being born in Holborn, he made his way to Castle Hedingham for a while and then moved into Braintree, not far from here.  There again at that time everything was not far from here.
In spite of being born in 1812 he was not 'Baptised' into the Holborn Church until 1836 when he would have been 24.  I wonder if he had found a woman and wished to marry her there?  Certainly he had a first born only three years later and that is Staffordshire where he must have moved to gain the money to keep the wife.  Two other children followed there before coming into the large village of Castle Hedingham and what a place that would be for a child to grow up at that time!  Of course schooling would be forced upon them, and that would spoil the fun but it would enable them to benefit greatly as the Victorian economy grew in the middle of the century.  Braintree may have appeared 'bustling' in comparison with previous homes but it would still be suitable for the kids.

Living in this small two up and two down house, with no piped water until 1861 and then only if you could afford the 1/6d weekly, and with five children most of the time makes you wonder how they survived.  Consider the females fussing, consider the young child, there is always one, consider the washing, consider the vast dresses filling the room, consider marrying the girls off to the first tender approach.  That however did not appear to work.  Still four of them with the parents in 1871.
The wife Eliza dies in 1875, Edward follows in 1878 aged 66.  Being buried in this graveyard indicates they attending this rebellious fellowship regularly rather than St Michaels the Anglican Parish Church.  Indeed I think that was in rather a poor state at this time, Essex rebels remember their loyalty to Parliament under Cromwell and may even in the 19th century have avoided the church.
The Wicks story is not going to make news, they may have made friends, maybe not if the girls were still unmarried in their 20's.  We will never know.  The name is common in Essex, I would trace the family but really canny be bothered now, and I am thinking of visiting Tesco for bread.  However, this little study refreshed my stale mind wonderfully.  I needed it if you didn't.

Pryor Book

Amazon

Francis Pryor became famous as part of the 'Time Team' archaeology series on Channel 4.  Pryor's speciality being prehistory, the 'Bronze' and 'Iron Ages.'  His own work is based near Peterborough in the 'Fens.'      
'Paths to the Past' however, is not about prehistory though it may be mentioned, this book covers much of the land and seeks out specific areas with something to tell of times past, and not too far past at that.and
Beginning way back at 'Star Carr,' and then the 'Orkney's,' we move through 'Avebury,' 'Hadrian's Wall,' and on a few short pages at a time.  Thus enabling five or ten minutes to be spent considering one aspect of UK heritage. 
The four or five pages given to the subject, be it 'Romney March' or 'Ironbridge,' are a very good example of constructing a short story which covers much ground.  An excellent overview is given of the subject and at the end of the thin book there are further reams to study if wished.  
Whether you agree with his opinions or not the view from 'Birkenhead Park,' to 'Kings Cross & St Pancras,' is well worth looking into.  A book of short chapters, well written and full of interest, well worth a read.

 

History in Film

The year is 1902and this short film taken outside St James Church, Hull, is full of interest.
The year 1902 saw the end of the Second Boer War and the British Army adopt Khaki Serge instead of Red Coats, Vladimir Lenin was spending a year at the British Museum reading room, a man named Harry Jackson was convicted this year on fingerprint evidence, the first man to be caught this way.  During that year the Royal Navy introduced its first submarine HMS 'Holland,' a device some thought ungentlemanly,  then too Arthur Balfour became Prime Minister for a short while, his education act enabled local councils to build and run schools while Elgar's 'Land of Hope and Glory' had its pompous premier.  That year saw Hibernian win the Scottish Cup and failed to win it again for 114 years, and the Ibrox disaster occurred when wooden planking gave way and 25 were killed falling through the gap with over 500 injured.  A new King was crowned at much expence, Edward VII became monarch after many years of waiting but I suspect he did not give up his many other women just because of the job.  The citizens of Hull would have flown flags and banners, decorated the buildings and had a party to celebrate this great event, and drink a great deal I expect. 
This appears to be a well populated church with those from all classes in attendance.  In 1902 people dressed in their best for church and it is clear many here have the funds to dress well.  Many 'top hats' sit on heads, only the higher classes wore these while the middle class managers wore bowlers or similar.  Note how long it took all those to dress in the morning!  Service at 10 or 11 must have meant getting up at least three hours beforehand for the women.  Just think of the fuss in the morning as they struggled to get ready.  
Vast numbers of children tumble out, all as obedient as kids today I note, each one desperate to be in front of the camera.  Again it appears they are very middle class but behave as all young ones do.  I wonder how many were to read Kipling's 'Just So' stories that year or possibly E Nesbit's 'Five Children and It.' 
Almost all the men wear waistcoats with watch chain showing, some carry sticks, useful in rough areas, but all also wear those itchy 'Long Johns' and 'Granddad' vests as well as shirt, tie, jacket and overcoat!  How comfortable in the sunshine was that?  Most also had moustaches or beards, the 'Gillette Safety Razor' had only recently seen the patent application applied for and would not arrive for four more years.  Some say it was his success in supplying troops during the Great War that saw these razors become standard, most men in the picture would have used an open blade while shaving, hence the beards!  
Would these upright people have read Arnold Bennett's 'Anna of the Five Towns,' or Sherlock Holmes adventure 'The Hound of the Baskervilles?' 
The church was full but how many were there because of social convention?  How many were true believers?  Social pressure ensured full churches and the teaching, if good, affected the way society behaved.  The churches were less full after the Great War when faith was tested to the nth degree.
The church itself was demolished in the 1950's.
How interesting to look at people who no longer exist!  I wonder if they ever saw the film of themselves, what did they make of this new contraption that captured you on film moving about?  The young ones were all interested at the novelty, some old ones clearly disapproved of being filmed, was there a fascination with the wonderful new inventions that kept arriving in those days?  Did they see the future of the world as a glorious experience?  Could they imagine it all going wrong a few years later?    

The Blurb on YouTube is this:-

 

Gy Jones.

This is a congregation leaving St. James Church in Hull, England in 1902. A rare view right into the turn of the century (most of the films from this time are in extremely murky condition). Set at a natural speed with some added sound ambience to give it the feel of a looking through a time machine. The film is from the Mitchell and Kenyon collection.