British History: Uncommon Tales and Strange Stories
From the pages of history, British history books are replete with peculiar and fascinating tales not often found in mainstream narratives. These stories hint at a realm of the bizarre, where true and unusual events challenge our perception of the past. Here are some intriguing instances from British history that have stood the test of time.
1. The Hang for a Spy
During the Napoleonic Wars, a monkey was executed in Hartlepool for allegedly being a French spy. This unusual event speaks volumes about the fervor and paranoia that engulfed Britain during such critical times.
2. Pink Tornados in the Gulf War
Many know of modern female fighter pilots. Fewer, however, are aware that during the Gulf War, the renowned Tornado jets were painted pink. This quirky detail adds a whimsical narrative to the serious history of aerial warfare.
3. Gurkha Soldiers: A Scheme for Independence and Service
The British Army once struck a deal with the Nepalese during the Anglo-Nepal war. Nepal retained its independence, and the Gurkha soldiers began their military careers in British ranks. This alliance led to the establishment of the Gurkha regiments in both the British and Indian Armies, still an integral part of contemporary military structures.
4. Density and Antiseptics
Before the advent of antiseptics, only two cities worldwide reached urban population densities of one million. London and Kyoto/Tokyo were among these. The mild antiseptic properties of tea contributed to this unique population density, enabling a higher populace within urban settings.
5. The World's Deepest Hill
A curious fact about England: any land over 1000 feet is considered a mountain. Leith Hill, at 960 feet, inspired a local lord to add 40 feet to it in the 1700s. Today, it stands 1000 feet high and offers a panoramic view of London's Clock Tower and the English Channel, on a clear day.
6. A Tale of Before Clocks
Distinction between clockwise and counterclockwise was once gauged by the sun's path, not clocks. The term "widdershins" denotes anti-clockwise movement, suggesting it predates the invention of clocks. Some claim churches, including those in the UK, bear this superstition: running seven times around them widdershins is said to witness the devil.
7. A Heinous Crime: Suicide
In the 1800s, suicide was considered a severe crime akin to murder. Survivors faced the death penalty, emphasizing the societal stigma attached to this act.
8. Jaffa Cake Controversy
A 1991 legal battle over Jaffa Cakes brought to light the culinary and tax implications of what classify as a cake vs. a biscuit. These chocolate-covered sponge cakes, covered with a distinctive orange filling, were debated by HMRC and the taxpayer, United Biscuits. The final ruling declared Jaffa Cakes as biscuits and subject to 20% VAT, not cakes. This unique case highlighted the deep-seated traditions and tax laws surrounding these beloved treats.
9. Mysterious Legio IX Hispana
The historical absence of Legio IX Hispana remains a mystery. They last appeared in Northern Britain before vanishing, leading many to speculate about their ultimate fate. Claims of blue-skinned people akin to the modern-day Picts are largely anecdotal, rooted in historical ambiguity.
10. Oliver Cromwell's Alehouse Prohibition
Even Oliver Cromwell could not stand the proliferation of alehouses in Warwickshire, culminating in the closure of half of them. The cause behind such an action, let alone in a Puritanical leader, is fascinating.