#and yes this includes rhine and august

[mothergold]

let it be known every single one of oc x canon are t4t even if it doesnt seem like it/i dont talk about it on here 🙂‍↕️

[thiswaycomessomethingwicked]

What do you think Napoleon would feel about the Le Pens? Like I know he’d hate their guts but the extent 👀

God fuck the Le Pens. I feel dirty thinking about them. (Though weirdly funny that Marine kicked her dad out of FN. Like you know you’re too deep down the rabbit hole of fuckery when Marine kicks you out. [and yeah, of course it’s all part of her image cleaning up gimmick. Wherein I’m sure she thinks the same as him, but is trying to “soften” the image of the party. And, based on the last election, it’s working. So that’s horrifying.]) All this to say: fuck the Le Pens; white supremacy etc. 

Anyway - assuming we’re still going for “Napoleon from 1815 woke up August 22, 2020″ base for our thought experiments here. 

Overall, yeah he’d think them short sighted, idiotic, and would probably have some elegant-yet-crude insults for them in Corsican. Let us take a brief, and not at all comprehensive, stroll down the Le Pens (and FN by default)’s terrible policies. Then I can scrub my brain out because they are absolutely foul people. 

behind a cut because it’s long. 

Economics: First off, Napoleon and I are the same in that we neither know anything about economics. He did not have a firm grasp on how the economy worked. Which I sympathise with, because it seems very fake and made up. 

Anyway, he did a lot of modernization, raised taxes, created a lot of public works programs to stimulate the economy and improve connectivity (gotta build all the roads and canals. Actually though, as a public infrastructure keener, I support this). He did lay the foundation for the centralized bank of France. (Something Biddle would get all hot and bothered over. Nothing sexier than centralized banks.)

Napoleon also introduced a whole loan system for businesses to try and keep them afloat and improve local industry. He was keen on protecting property rights, um, tried to regulate the currency to protect it against inflation. Idk, he did other things that I’m not going to get into. 

Comparing Napoleon’s hot economic takes from 1815 to 2020? A bit hard. So I’m going to guestimate on this. 

I think, once he understood how the world functions now, he would be pro-globalization and the various free trade agreements that are in place (CETA, PCAs etc). He might disagree with details therein, but the broad philosophy is one I think he’d support. 

I don’t know if he would be pro-single currency. I suspect he might be anti-the Euro, while still supporting the broad intents of the EU. 

He would support a strong public sector - so government controlled postal service, utilities, schools etc. In that, and the anti-Euro view, he would align with Marine, at least. Not sure about her POS father. 

No idea what his views on the Havana Charter would be. Probably mixed. 

EU: I’ve touched on this before, I think Napoleon would be pro-EU, over all. He’d just think France should be the hegemonic power. Why isn’t France making all the decisions? This is dumb. Who does Germany think they are? Etc. Therefore, he would disagree with the Le Pens who think the EU is the anti-christ and the cause of everything bad that ever happened in France (I exaggerate, but they do blame the EU for a lot of things so you know, it’s not that much of a stretch).

Immigration: This is where they would diverge significantly. Like apples and moldy toast kind of different. I’ve touched on Napoleon’s immigration policy before, so I’m not going to wade into it again. But yeah, needless to say Napoleon would be like “let everyone come. They want to come to France? They are French. More is better. The end.” 

The only thing is, he was very pro-assimilation. Not really into the “patchwork quilt” approach to the philosophy (and implementation) of multiculturalism. Which, to be fair, is a very modern view and not something I would expect anyone from 1815 to agree with, or consider a general good approach to dynamic, multicultural societies. 

But yeah, the Le Pens whole moratorium on immigration, hatred of anyone foreign, that would be an anathema to Napoleon. He would vehemently disagree with that stance. Napoleon believed alloys were stronger. You took different people, boiled them down, and melded them into a unified French identity. That was his Hot Take on the matter. Again, pro-assimilation, which is an inherently conservative stance by 21st century standards, but a very average stance by early 19th century standards. His immigration and citizenship views were overall liberal for the time. 

Indeed, the whole creation of a unified French identity was in its infancy during his life. He contributed heavily to it, but for his lifetime, identity was strongly linguistic and regional. You’re Gascon before you’re French, you’re Basque before you’re either French or Spanish, that sort of thing. 

And of course, his views on this were heavily informed by his own experience and identity as a Frenchman and how it was received, or not, by his own people, as well as other monarchs and countries. (Tsar Alexander liked to brag that he spoke better French than the Emperor of France. And I believe the Times once called Napoleon a “Mediterranean mongrel.” Charming. So, he had a fun and exciting adventure in European class, ethnic and racial politics of the early 19th century.)

Napoleon would also disagree with the Le Pens that citizenship and nationality are indivisible. He was into the whole “if you decide you are French then you are French, no matter which side of the Rhine you were born on”. 

Secularism: They’d actually probably mostly agree on this. In that religion has no part or place in government and there should be a clear and strong separation of church and state. 

The banning of religious clothing, though, I don’t think Napoleon would support that. I would argue that he’d think it infringed on personal rights too much, and he was keen on protecting those. Like, his policy towards integrating France’s Jewish population was to try and assimilate them, yes, because he viewed everything as being consumed by the monolith that was the French Empire. But he wasn’t like “no wearing a tallit or kippah.”

Abortion: Guys, Napoleon is a culturally Catholic man from 1815 who thought women’s crowing jewel were her children and that France really needed to increase its overall population. I think we can all figure out what his views on abortion would be. Marine is pro-legality of abortion, but she personally is like “it’s eViL and a serious MoRaL IsSuE” etc. 

Gay Rights: Napoleon’s whole political approach was to bring in the people on the margins and normalize them (assimilate; one of us, one of us) as a means to increase the base of the population who would support him. As he viewed marriage as a strictly secular, civil ceremony, and not a religious one, there could be a possibility of slowly talking him around to it. That said, he also viewed marriage as a declaration of intent to make many babies (for his army). I don’t think he’d be pro-queer couples adopting, no matter what. So, who knows. 

That said, he wasn’t like “lock up the gays”. And as gay marriage is established in France currently, I don’t know if he’d be pro-abolition since it’s mostly a popular/accepted law and he was all about that sweet, sweet public approval rating. 

So if he came around to it, it wouldn’t be for altruistic reasons. At the same time, he wouldn’t be like “make it illegal”. He was very “w/e just show up to work on time Cambaceres, jesus.” (Cambaceres: It’s midnight, sire. This isn’t normal work hours. Napoleon: SAYS WHO???) 

Women in Politics: Well he’s obviously 100% against that. Ladies belong at home with the bebes. Le Pens, obviously, aren’t. Though Jean, I think, is like Trump where he’s pro his daughter being in politics (until she chucked him out of FN), but he would expect his wife to be a Proper Housewife. That weird conservative man thing about the role of wives and daughters. 

-

There’s my fly-over guestimation of Napoleon v Le Pens

It’s very, very hard to figure out what Napoleon, a man born in 1769 and died in 1821, would think about politics, economics and society in 2020. I tried to gauged based on his broad, philosophical views and how he acted as ruler. But he was also someone who was very analytical and would be capable of understanding the world as it is today and the realities that are in place. He might find them off putting or bizarre (ladies as heads of states?? what about your children??) but he was an imminently pragmatic man who would look at a situation and go “alright, this is the reality of the system and society I am now in” and would adjust himself accordingly. 

In the end, trying to figure out how a man from 1815 would react to today’s politics is very difficult, if not outright impossible. His understanding of what liberal meant, what conservative meant, etc. were so different to our understanding that I would never place him in one camp. He had changing, dynamic views, and that would be reflected in his understanding of politics in 2020. 

Overall, I think he would disagree with a lot of the stances of the Le Pens. Would he hate them? No. Because Napoleon didn’t really hate people based on their political views. He saw too much of the Revolution to go for extreme personal reactions to political stances; also he was too much a pragmatist and understood that you never know who might be an ally in the future. 

Napoleon might look down on the Le Pens, he might find them personally disgusting, he might view them as stupid (honestly, he’d probably just think they’re dumb and quickly move on), but he wouldn’t hate them. 

-

Because this is tumblr, I must now declare my political stance because I was too calm in most of that assessment. 

1. Fuck the Le Pens & Front Nationale 

2. Nationalism is spooky and I am always suspect when it comes up in political discourse in the year of our lord 2020 

3. I am bi and non-binary, which isn’t actually a political stance (or a personality), but tumblr is Like That so I thought I’d include it. 

4. I support: lgbtq rights; trans rights; universal health care; easy and open access to education; improved access to education at primary school levels (because that’s a huge impact on people); ACAB; separation of church and state; prison reform/some form of abolishment - I’m still thinking through my views on this and how it should be approached; land back; Aboriginal and Treaty Rights; immigration; no more kids in cages jesus christ; don’t drink bleach; democracy is good, punch fascists etc. etc. 

[wolfofansbach]

“Our country is vast. The globe must turn for nine hours before the whole of our Soviet land can enter the new year of our victories. The day is coming when we will need not nine hours, but twenty-four!”

--Pravda, January 1941

“We will ignite international flames,

churches and prisons we’ll burn to the ground;

for from the taiga to the British seas,

the Red Army is stronger!”

--’White Army, Black Baron’, marching song of the Red Army

The world in 1962, twenty years after the Red Army’s conque--er, liberation of Europe.

WARNING: long as fuck

(I’m aware it’s...pretty far from realistic. Just bear with me. Also the point of divergence from our timeline is a little further back than 1941, hence things like the Profintern still existing and Marshal Tukhachevsky not having been shot).

On June 17th, 1941, the Wehrmacht marshals on the Soviet border, preparing to carry out Hitler’s final war of aggression. The black earth of Ukraine and the farmlands of the Volga. The old Teutonic cities of the Baltic. There is the destiny of the German people.

Stalin will be caught entirely unawares. He has been lulled into a false peace by his pact with the Führer, two years earlier. Or so Berlin believes. Soviet Russia is weak, the Red Army is feeble.

“Only kick in the door, and the whole rotten structure will come crashing down.”

Eastern Poland comes alive with the roar of artillery and the thunder of soldier’s boots. But this not the Wehrmacht marching. It is the Red army.

Too late the Nazis realize it is they, not the Bolsheviks, who have been played for fools. Hitler signed his treaty with Soviet Russia to ensure his rear was secure, while he smashed the Poles and then turned west to dispense with the French and the English. The Bolsheviks were content to let him do just that. In the two years since the non-aggression pact, Stalin has watched and waited, carefully, while German armies overrun Europe, until the whole continent is prostate before Hitler. France, the low countries, Scandinavia, Poland, Yugoslavia, Greece.

The wily old Bolshevik in the Kremlin has slyly allowed the Führer to make himself the villain of the century. the monster holding Europe in chains. Now, whoever steps forward to free the nations from Nazi tyranny will be hailed by the peoples of the world as liberator.

Even if it is the dreaded Red Army that does the liberating.

Lenin had always said that war opened the door for revolution. The first great imperialist conflagration had created the Republic of Soviets and very nearly delivered all of Europe into the hands of red revolutionists. This second war, ignited by Germany with the tacit encouragement of the USSR, will finish the job.

The Wehrmacht is caught on the back foot--Hitler’s great, invincible legions are armed to the teeth, equipped with the most modern, lethal weaponry of any military on the planet. Yes, they are prepared. But for a war of aggression, not a war of defense. They are prepared to march into the Soviet Union, not to be marched on.

Thousands of German tanks, warplanes, countless munitions depots, and armies’ worth of hapless Landsers are massed right on the Soviet frontier, in preparation for the invasion that now will never come. When the Red Army floods over the border, weapons and men are captured by the millions. Entire German armies are encircled and destroyed in those first few days.

The Wehrmacht reels back towards Germany, stunned by the sudden onslaught. Goebbels takes to the radio, boasting that he was right, that now surely all of Europe can see the mortal threat posed by the Bolshevik menace in the east. He tactfully neglects to mention Germany’s own plans for aggression, so narrowly preempted by Stalin’s attack.

On July 10th, red troops march into Warsaw. The Polish people, despising their German conquerors but hardly less suspicious of the Russians, give them a wary welcome.

In the south, thousands of red paratroopers rain down on Romania’s Ploesti Oilfields, starving Hitler’s panzers and warplanes of their precious fuel. The Red Army punches forward, their tanks rolling smoothly over the FLAT plains of northern Europe, driving the German Army inexorably before them.

Hitler’s invincible troopers put up a stubborn fight, but on August 2nd, the Red Army takes East Prussia. Nazi officials and party elites snatch up all the wealth and damning records they can get their hands on, and flee west as fast as they can.

By the fourth week of September, Himmler, Göring, Frank, Kaltenbrunner, and Sauckel, to name only a few, are already sneaking through the Rhineland towards France. Hitler himself, along with Göbbels and a handful of other die-hards, stubbornly refuse to abandon Berlin.

In the south, Soviet troops storm over the Carpathians, barreling straight towards Budapest, scantly defended by the Hungarian Army and a few disoriented Wehrmacht and SS divisions.

On October 22nd, the Red Army’s armored spearheads reach the outskirts of Berlin. An unraveling Hitler, much against the advice of his counselors, joins a German citizens’ militia, animated by visions of an epic, Wagnerian last stand. He is presumably killed in the short battle than ensues. His body is never found. Rumors of his survival will abound for decades.

Despite the feverish attempts of SS fanatics to organize a fight to the death, the city, stunned by the rapidity of German defeat, hardly resists as the red soldiers march into the Pariser Platz. The swastika is hauled down.

What German divisions have avoided falling apart pull back into the Rhineland, and then into France, Stalin’s legions nipping at their heels. Resistance movements in the occupied countries take heart, emboldened by the Reich’s sudden collapse.  

Landsers trudging into France and Belgium suffer jeers and threats from the same locals that just months before groveled before them.

On November 6th, the Red Army reaches the Rhine, just in time for the twenty-fourth anniversary of the October Revolution. A handful of divisions capture Denmark in a matter of hours and round up the Nazi troops stationed therein.

The Nazis and their French collaborators attempt to fortify that country, hoping if nothing else to hold Stalin at the Ardennes. Just as the French tried to hold Runstedt’s panzers there only a year ago. But it is hopeless. Rebellions flowers all over the country. The PCF sees a massive upswing in popularity. The south becomes ungovernable as tens of thousands of guerrilla fighters swarm the towns and hill country.

In the first week of December, the Red Army seizes the Ruhr, Köln, and other old industrial strongholds on the Rhine. Even after nine years of Nazi rule, the Rhineland’s old socialist tradition runs deep. In many towns, Soviet troops are welcomed with "hurrah!” and red flags.

Britain watches, stunned. They have fought Hitler two years, now. But the country’s ruling classes shudder as Bolshevism rushes ever nearer to the channel. “Make peace with the Germans,” some urge. “The Bolsheviks must be stopped.”

“Let them wear each other down,” say others.

In Moscow, the Soviet government publishes documents proving Germany’s intention to attack the USSR, and justifying Stalin’s strike as a preemptive one to “liberate the toiling peoples of Europe from imperial-fascist slavery.”

The assault on France begins. What is left of the Wehrmacht, complemented by French fascist volunteers and the Vichy French Army, puts up a spirited defense, to little avail. The Red Army sweeps aside its dissolute foes and storms into Paris on New Year’s, 1942.

Red tank armies wheel southward, driving towards Provence and the Pyrenees. In the east and south, the Red 9th Army seizes Budapest, and then rushes onto Vienna and Prague, while the 18th Army moves into Yugoslavia and towards Greece.

In one of history’s great ironies, what remains of the Wehrmacht ends up crushed against the English Channel, the sea to their backs and the Red Army to their face, the same predicament in which they left the British at Dunkirk one year ago. They are joined in their unenviable position by officers, lords, politicians, activists, and civilians from nearly every nation in Europe fleeing the Soviet onslaught, marked for elimination by their fascist sympathies or class origins.

And like the British at Dunkirk, the Germans look across the water towards London for salvation. They have been at war with England for two years now, yes. But that was a gentleman’s war, wasn’t it? Surely the English cannot leave them to the red steppe hordes?

What remains of the Nazi government, headed by Göring and gathering in the port city of Le Havre, desperately pleas with Churchill to evacuate them, and as many of their soldiers, as possible, before the Russians arrive.

Fierce debate erupts in parliament. Some say that the Germans would never have offered them such a kindness. Leave them to the reds. Many on the right push their insistence that the Bolsheviks are worse than the Nazis.

Riots erupt in London, Birkenhead, and Liverpool at the prospect of Britain being flooded by German refugees, including disarmed soldiers.

Churchill’s government opens negotiations with Stalin. The Council of People’s Ministers promises German prisoners of war will be treated in accordance with international law, but refuses to give any guarantees for Nazi leaders.

The Red Army nears Le Havre and the Nazi government in exile, even as crack SS troops and Milice struggle to hold them back. In the end, Churchill quietly okays an evacuation of the Le Havre government to Britain.

Word leaks to the public. Further riots break out in London at the prospect that British resources are going to be expended to save Hitler’s butchers from the Russians.

Between popular pressure and a sudden red offensive, the operation is a spectacular failure. On March 23rd, 1942, Even as British ships anchor offshore, the Red Army breaks into Le Havre before any of the cowering Nazis can make it to the docks.

Göring’s shambles of a government is captured almost to the last man, save for a handful who slip through the Soviet net. Notably, Reinhard Heydrich slips away, disappearing from the pages of history. For the time being.

Now holding what remains of the Nazi high echelons, Stalin thunders against the British imperialists, who he says “have given the lie to their supposed ‘anti-fascistm’, for they have endeavored to save Hitler’s hangmen from the justice of the people.”

When word spreads across Europe of the attempted rescue of the Nazi elites by British forces, the prestige of the UK and Churchill’s government in particular, within and without the country, plummets.

Meanwhile, the Red Army, having seized and pacified the northern European plain, as well as having driven to Greece, turns its attentions southward. Mussolini’s Italy still stands, quivering in terror behind the Alps. Fascist Spain races to fortify the Pyrenees.

It is easy enough to justify war on the remaining fascist states--they had aided Germany all through the war, after all, and had even pledged men and resources to the bungled invasion of the USSR.

Fascist Italy begs Britain for assistance, they cannot face the Red Army alone, Mussolini pleads. Count Ciano, Mussolini’s longtime foreign minister, curses him to his face, damning him for having entered the war on Hitler’s side and thus having provided Stalin with an ironclad causus belli.

“The hammer and the sickle will split the fasces, and you have only yourself to blame, duce.”

The Royal Navy begins to run guns and ammunitions to Sicily and Naples. From Moscow, Molotov blasts London for her about-face.

“Mussolini and Hitler were devils, except now that the Red Army moves to destroy them, they become your dearest friends,” he charges.

When a Royal Navy destroyer sinks a Red Navy cruiser off of the coast of Spain, the USSR declares war on Great Britain.

The Red Army masses on the Alps, like Napoleon 150 years ago, or Hannibal before him. The fascist army, bolstered by British advisors, prepares to stand and fight.

On June 5th, 1942, the Red Army launches its invasion of Italy. In the old industrial towns of the northern peninsula, many workers and trade unions are sympathetic to the Bolsheviks, and soon stir up trouble in Mussolini’s rear.

Red planes drop leaflets over the country, promising liberty to the workers of Turin and Milan and the peasants of Napoli and Messina. They remind how Mussolini plunged a dagger into the back of the socialists and how his blackshirts murdered the workers’ movement at the behest of the bosses.

There is no full-scale rebellion against fascist rule, but in many parts of the country, support for Il Duce chills considerably.

The Italian Army holds its positions on the Apennine Mountains for some months, to the shock of many.

But on August 18th, 1942, the Red Army breaks through in a grand offensive. Mussolini shoots himself as Soviet shells rain down on Rome. King Vittorio Emanuele is killed when his convoy, moving west towards Ostia and a British exile, is strafed by red fighter planes.

On September 11th, Soviet troops reach the toe of the Italian Peninsula.

In the west, Franco’s government panics. The civil war is only three years over. Millions of Spaniards who supported the republic through the conflict loathe the new fascist government, and many of those millions hope the Red Army will soon march over the Pyrenees to topple it. Such is Stalin’s intentions.

Insurgencies render Andalusia, Vasconia, and Catalonia near ungovernable. A full-scale anarchist-republican uprising in Seville and the surrounding countryside is only crushed by the use of 5,000 regular troops and multiple units of Civil Guards and Falangists.

In Britain, the government struggles to turn the people, primed over the past years for war against Germany, to support instead the struggle against bolshevism. The worst excesses of the Russian Civil War are dredged up, and invented where they do not exist. Lurid pictures are painted of what will happen should England go red.

But the British people are tired of war. Few want a soviet in London, but not many are eager for a conflagration with Stalin.

Nevertheless, Churchill’s cabinet organizes a British Expeditionary Force, which is summarily dispatched to Salazar’s Portugal. Franco’s Spain welcomes the British assistance.

Franco’s government announces to the world again and again that Spain was neutral in the European war, and thus the Soviet Union could have no cause for declaring war on her. They know full well such reasoning will have no play with Stalin, but they hope to at least convince the world at large that the Russians are in the wrong.

Stalin responds: “that the cowardice of the Spanish fascists kept them from an open declaration of war did not prevent them lending aid to their German and Spanish allies wherever possible. The working people of Spain cry out for a liberation from the brutal regime that crushed their democracy and even now holds them in chains.”

Soviet troops mass on the Pyrenees. Spain is in ferment.

In the coffee houses of Madrid and Barcelona, many a joke is made about the “5,000,000 sons of St. Stalin.”

On December 5th, 1942, the Red Army pours over the Pyrenees. Barcelona revolts against the Francoist troops even before the Russians arrive, and when they do, they are greeted with open arms by the republican city. The staunchly conservative Navarre and the Basque Country receive the soldiers with much less enthusiasm.

Franco’s armies and the British forces fortify Madrid, hoping ironically for a repeat of the miracle of 1936, wherein the republican forces held of Franco’s forces at the edge of the city.

No such luck. The Red Army barrels towards the capital, sweeping aside like bowling pins Spanish and British divisions. Franco’s army dissolves. The survivors, along with their British allies, pull back towards Portugal. Franco flees with them.

When red troops storm down the Gran Vía, the occupants of Madrid’s lower quarters turn out to cheer them, waving red flags, while from upper stories the city’s middle classes watch in horror.

Thousands of refugees, including Franco and many of his ministers, crowd the port at Lisbon, clamoring to escape.

The rest of Spain is quickly pacified.

Stalin is glad so many fascist Spanish troops and civilians have fled into Portugal. It will make the justification that much easier. He demands Salazar turn them over.

Naturally, the dictator refuses.

The Red Army invades Portugal in the third week of January, 1943. It is remembered as the Five-Day Campaign.

Franco escapes into a south American exile.

The world watches, stunned beyond belief. How could such a thing happen? In less than two years, Europe is bolshevized. The Red Army is in Minsk and in Lisbon.

In 1919, Lenin had spoken of world revolution. He had believed it on the horizon. The propertied classes of the west had trembled. But the revolutionary wave had fizzled. The Soviet Union ceased to be a found of global revolt and become just another nation-state.

But now, the old goal of the Bolsheviks returned to the forefront. World revolution! A world soviet republic!

Hysteria rules in the Americas, in Japan, but especially in Britain. After all, only that thin, blessed stretch of water that is the channel protects them from the Red Army.

On May Day, 1943, a parade is held in Moscow. Thousands of German prisoners, along with Romanian, Hungarian, and even fascist French and Spanish, are marched through Red Square, before cheering crowds.

Toasts are made to Comrade Stalin, Brilliant Genius of Humanity, Architect of Communism, and now, ‘Liberator of Nations’.

In the newly conquered territories, the bolsheviks get busy. The Nazis have done much of the hard work for them, many of the old states of Europe, such as Poland and Czechoslovakia, have suffered complete debellation at the hands of the Nazis. The Nazis have everywhere destroyed state machinery and national governments. They will have to be rebuilt. And rebuilt under the watchful, brotherly eye of the Red Army, of course.

A “People’s Provisional Government of Poland” is set up. Old German communists and young workers from the Rhineland easily turned from Nazism to Stalinism provide the nucleus for a “Supreme Revolutionary Council” in Berlin. In Spain there is an “Emergency Commission for the Administration of the Spanish Republic.”

All over Europe, these nominally independent governments are established. ‘Fascist’ parties (and the net is cast rather wide) are of course banned from participation, their members where they can be found summarily arrested by the NKVD. All others are allowed to participate, even bourgeois liberals and conservatives. But special consideration is given to ‘proletarian’ parties, as “the liberating class”, whose votes and delegates in the new governments receive outsized weight.

The 1940s are a period of intense political reorganization through Europe. Stalin’s principal goal is to build up bases of solid support in the occupied countries. The Red Army enjoys great prestige for having defeated Hitler and liberated Europe, but it will not last forever.

Stalin focuses on wooing the industrial and agricultural workers of Europe. The middle classes will never see the light of socialism, and the smallholding peasants will be a struggle. But with millions of urban laborers and rural proletarians, the Red Army will have enough to hold down the continent.

Those classified as ‘proletarian’ are given priority in work, schooling, wages, and medicine. The policy is in the main successful. To the surprise of many, especially in Germany. Eight years of Nazi rule was not enough to erase the country’s old, militant labor traditions. The miners of the Ruhr, longshoremen in Hamburg, and ironworkers in Berlin soon become a powerful base of support for the new pro-Soviet government.

Not all are quite as warm to the new order. In spring 1945, a massive uprising erupts in Bavaria, and three Soviet divisions are needed to quell it, with some 20,000 dead. In the eastern countries, Romania, Hungary, and Slovakia, largely peasant, stolid and conservative, the Red Army suffers partisan attacks and native recalcitrance.

Economic and social chaos envelops the continent. Landowners, aristocrats, intelligentsia, and officers are arrested, and shot by the NKVD. Mass graves scar the land from Minsk to Madrid. Farmland and factories are collectivized. Strict censorship of all ‘fascist’ and ‘imperialist’ literature is enforced. Trade unions and parties are subsumed into the ‘Red International of Labor Unions’. School curricula are reformed, to include lessons on Marxist theory and inculcate a proletarian consciousness in Europe’s youth.

It is bloody, weary work.

But by and large, Europe is pacified.

In 1944-45, the Nazi leadership along with many of their European allies (Antonescu, Horthy, Laval, Pavelic and the like) are tried. There is no need to cynically invent evidence in common Soviet fashion. More than enough to condemn Hitler’s regime is found in the documents of the RSHA and the Wehrmacht. Plans to starve millions of soviet citizens in the war that never was. Blueprints for the elimination of the Jews from Europe. Explicit orders to disobey international laws of war.

Himmler and Göring are hanged on the same day, May 8th, 1945. The rest follow in batches. Acquittals are next to none.

In the winter of 45-46, the Polish provisional government, having conclusively dispensed with its internal ‘bourgeois’ rivals, ‘requests’ official admission to the USSR. Moscow, of course, accepts.

Britain condemns the “illegal annexation”. The Soviet Union fires back that a country ruling half the world has little ground to stand upon when making such accusations.

The rest of Europe, under their Soviet-friendly governments, follows suit. Slovakia joins in the spring of 46, along with Hungary and Bohemia. That fall, so do Yugoslavia and Bulgaria.

Germany joins in early 1947. Italy later that summer. France just before the new year.

By the winter of 1949, most all of Europe has been annexed (or been admitted, as official parlance insists) to the Soviet Union.

Sweden and Switzerland had been neutral in the war. Never occupied or allied with the Germans. So it is a bit harder to justify marching the Red Army in. Instead, the NKVD funds and organizes communist dissidents, to foment revolt and eventually revolution.

Britain fortifies herself. The island becomes “one great barrack” as Soviet propaganda describes it. Travel to and from the continent dwindles into nonexistence.

Parliament passes a series of laws effectively allowing for the indefinite internment of any suspected communists or communist sympathizers. Communist, socialist, and not a few social democratic papers are summarily closed down by the government. Trade unions are dissolved or neutered.

The left, even the mildest laborites, become the target of extreme suspicion.

It comes to a head in the autumn of 1945, when Labour wins a resounding victory at the polls, with an 8% margin. Five years ago conservatives and liberals would have regarded as an obnoxious setback to be rectified in the next round. Now, with the Red Army across the channel, the results are greeted with widespread panic by the middle classes and propertied gentlemen of Britain.

To worsen the situation, in Yorkshire, thousands of miners, emboldened by the victory, go on strike, officially endorsed by the Labour leadership. The papers scream that this is bolshevism coming to Britain at last.

The miners are bullied, harassed, and beaten by their boss’s hired men, desperate to end the stoppage. On October 3rd, 1945, a firefight erupts between armed miners and triggermen in the employ of the coal companies.

The sitting Conservative government takes the opportunity to quell the situation, sending in 3,000 troops to ‘pacify’ the north. What results is a bloody battle between British soldiers and armed workers that leaves 382 dead and a country in shock.

The newly elected Labour delegates never take their seats, because the party, officially blamed for the debacle, is banned.

British politics lurch rightward.

Sir Oswald Mosley of the British Union of Fascists, regarding as a bad joke by most respectable Britons prior to the war, suddenly finds the nation quite receptive to his ‘message’.

The BUF rebrands itself the ‘British Patriots’ League’ and stands in the 1950 elections, winning 24% of the vote on a platform of ‘saving Britain from bolshevism, whatever the cost.’

The autonomy slowly being granted to overseas territories is revoked. India and South Africa are subject to direct rule from London.

Across the sea, a similar, if more muted phenomenon sweeps the United States.

Having remained neutral through the war, she has been spared the raw destruction that wrought on Europe and England. But the rapid expansion of the USSR persuades many that if the United States had intervened in the European war, perhaps Stalin’s ambitions could have been checked.

After bombs are mailed to a number of politicians and public officials in the spring of 1946, the Communist Party of the USA is officially banned.

In 1948, under the MacArthur administration, the United States signs a mutual assistance treaty with the United Kingdom, pledging 500,000 troops to be stationed on the British Isles for defense against “foreign (i.e, bolshevik) aggression”.

The world splits into two camps.

Britain clamps down on her colonial empire, with the assistance of the United States. In South Africa and India, separatist rebel groups spring into being, not-so-subtly armed and trained by the NKVD and GRU. Repression is harsh. British paratroopers and SAS men burn Zulu villages to the ground outside of Johannesburg. Thousands of US and British troops are funneled into India.

The overseas holdings of European powers now subsumed into the USSR (Portuguese Angola, the Belgian Congo, etc.) pass under Anglo-American ‘administration’.

In the east, Japan, equally alarmed by Stalin’s expansion, signs an “anti-Bolshevik” pact with the UK and US. France no longer existing as an independent state, Japan is allowed to retain control of French Indochina, against the feeble protests of nationalistic Frenchmen overseas.

In February of 1950, a series of border clashes in Manchuria between the Red Army and Imperial Japanese forces escalates into full-blown war.

Britain and America, while not entering the conflict officially, provide arms, fuel, and advisors to the Japanese military.

Stalin declares his intentions to “liberate the east from the cruel grip of Japanese fascism.”

The USSR funds Chinese Generalissimo Chiang Kai-Shek and communist rebel Mao Tse-Tung in their fight against the Japanese.

The conflict lasts until 1953, when the Red Army finally throws the Japanese out of Manchuria and Korea. Both are summarily joined to the USSR as soviet republics.

But Moscow’s grand ambitions to take China as well founder. Chiang Kai-Shek, now supported by the west (as Japan as been expelled from the country, and the choice is now between him and the reds), defeats Mao in a long civil war, and unifies China under a conservative, authoritarian government.

In Europe, the USSR continues its ‘building socialism’. The German Soviet Republic builds up its industrial capacity to new levels, coming closer to outstripping the Russian SFSR in production.

In 1953, Turkey collapses into civil war as leftist rebels attempt to overthrow the government. The conflict lasts six months, with a success for the left, that establishes a soviet sympathetic state.

In 1955, after years of subversion, Soviet-funded rebels overthrow the government of Switzerland. A provisional government “requests” admission to the USSR, and it duly granted. The little country, much to the horror of its people, is divided up between the Italian, French, and German soviet republics.

In 1956, the BPL wins 46% of the vote in the UK general elections, forming a government. William Joyce, an old-school ‘reformed’ fascist (the British people have a distaste for Mussolini’s old philosophy, even now) is appointed Prime Minister.

That same year, the Brazilian Integrationists, with US support, come to power on a wave of anti-communist sentiment. The ensuing dictatorship disappears and murders thousands. Communist guerrillas retreat into the impenetrable Amazon, where they take up a dogged resistance.

As Germany grows to become the most industrially developed component republic in the USSR, the center of gravity shifts towards Berlin. It is declared the capital of the union in 1957.

In 1958, Soviet-backed rebels in Syria and Iraq organize to throw off British colonial rule. The Red Army moves in from the Caucasus, prepared to lend its assistance.

Prime Minister Joyce warns the newly elected Soviet General Secretary Tukhachevsky that further interference in the region will mean war.

The USSR is undeterred.

London does not have the stomach for a direct war. British colonial troops (along with their US allies) fight a losing war with the rebels in Aleppo and Baghdad.

In 1960, Iraq and Syria expel the Anglo-Americans and, under Soviet tutelage, merge into the Arab Republic.

Palestine follows. Now parliament passes a declaration of war on Moscow. British troops flood the mid-east

In 1961, the Red Army chases British troops out of Egypt and raises a red flag in Cairo.

Panic grips Britain. That summer, a longshoremen’s strike in London is put down by soldiers with 38 dead. Parliament passes a law legalizing ‘contracts’ between employers and workers that forbid strikes and work stoppages, and bind the laborer to his place of work. Once signed, a worker may not quit.

It is widely denounced in many quarters of slavery, but Britain’s fast developing state security apparatus squelches dissent.

This is the world in the year 1962, as red and white duel for mastery of the earth, hands gory with blood.

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Dusseldorf Germany 7 Things You Will Enjoy When You Visit

Dusseldorf Germany is an international city for shopping, dining, and art. Everyone wants to “see and be seen” on the chic shopping street Königsallee. In the restaurants of Dusseldorf, you will discover contemporary culinary trends and exquisite tastes both local and international. The art and museum scene rivals many higher-profile cities. Dusseldorf on the banks of the Rhine River in western Germany is a contemporary, lively, and often missed destination.

We had the pleasure of visiting Dusseldorf, Germany recently. We found Dusseldorf colorful, creative, casual yet elegant and above all friendly. With these many different faces, it is easy to understand why Dusseldorf is known as the Pearl of the Rhine. Here are seven things you should include on your list of things to do when you visit.

Do Window or Real Shopping on Konigsalle Boulevard

Along Königsallee or “Kö” as the locals call it, classy boutique and famous high-end brands line the street. Kö has a sophisticated feel and is the main reason Dusseldorf is considered an elegant city. Celebrities to the wealthiest people in the world come to Dusseldorf to shop so you never know who you may see while strolling along the Kö. With its chestnut tree border, it is one of the city’s prettiest streets. The Ko is a place where you still dress to shop. We recommend you dress the part if you plan on doing some shopping here.

Stroll the Ko-Bogen

In keeping with the shopping theme, we recommend a stroll through the Ko-Bogen. It’s a mall so to speak filled with premium, luxury, and lifestyle shopping and dining in lively quarters. After WWII, Dusseldorf had to do a lot of rebuilding. They decided they wanted to go modern. Designed by New York architects, the Ko-Bogen is an ultra-modern two-part building ensemble filled with premium flagship stores, international brands, unique boutiques as well as cafés and restaurants. While you are there, take a walk around the outside. If you are inspired by architectural beauty, you will love the Ko-Bogen.

Take a Guided Walking Tour of Old Town

Now that you have your shopping done, it is time to tour old town or Altstadt Dusseldorf. As you walk the historic city center, you will see beautiful churches, and in contrast the worlds longest bar. That is right, more than 260 pubs line up in what is known as the longest bar in the world. As you tour the old town, you will see many cartwheelers and hear the legend of why they are so famous in Dusseldorf. You will see them on manhole covers, in souvenir shops, and fountains.

If you like history, Dusseldorf’s old town has intact air raid shelters that you can visit. Our guide took us to one of these shelters. Going underground in one of these shelters is a fascinating yet uneasy experience. Heavily bombed during WWII, Dusseldorf shelters gave protection to some people. But, as you think about living in Dusseldorf during the war, it must have been very difficult times. The shelters could not house everyone, and even if the shelters could, not everyone could make it to a shelter before the air strikes started.

It was an eerie experience to see the shelter’s capacity written on the wall. For the safety of those inside more people could not be added. There was a hand crank ventilation system. A person would turn the crank, and the system would bring in, hopefully, fresh air. I am sure that was not always the case. Air strikes took place round-the-clock for seven weeks at a time. The air strikes created many fires. An estimated 540,000 Dusseldorfian’s lost their lives in WWII

Back in the day, the sculptor on the front of this building was down at street level. The man’s face, of this facade, made of an arrangement of nude women designed by an artist to be beautiful came under scrutiny. You will see if you look closely. The cities townspeople at the time thought the artist’s work was too risqué. So, the town moved the man’s face up higher on the building. Today it is just a conversation piece.

Calsplatz

Another place that is a must when visiting Dusseldorf, especially if you are a foodie, is Carlsplatz. Carlsplatz used to be a farmers market, but as the city grew in culture and prestige, the farmers market became a foodie’s and gourmet’s paradise. Occupying an entire square in Düsseldorf’s old town, Carlsplatz is where you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, pastries, breads and more. It also has an area that is similar to food trucks in the US with stalls or stands selling their unique dishes. One place will sell bratwursts, another crepes, and another soups. Like some food trucks, you take your food to a picnic table and dig in! Our guide told us she meets friends here often. One friend will have ravioli while another has a flatbread and still another has a salad.

While in Carlsplatz Do Some Wine Tasting

After you have had a scrumptious lunch, what could be better than some wine? Keith and I have a second passion after travel, and it is wine. Concept Reisling is a great place in Carlsplatz to do a white wine tasting. We met with Bjorn, the sommelier. He enthusiastically shared his passion and dream of wine with us. Concept Reisling’s stand is a wine shop and a wine bar, which means you can shop for home or enjoy some great wine while you are there.

They do sell reds but they are known for their whites, so we tried whites. Each tasting was better than the last. Since this wine bar is outside, we asked Bjorn if they have much business in the winter and he said yes. He said that between the radiant heaters, the wine and the warmth of the crew at Concept Reisling anyone could overcome the cold. They focus on more mature vintages, rare rarities, and young talents. We were able to tour their wine cellar. We had no idea that some whites are actually better aged and that they could be so expensive!

Eat At Dusseldorf’s Oldest Restaurant

Located in the Old Town, the restaurant/brewery “Zum Schiffchen“ is the oldest restaurant in Düsseldorf. They serve local cuisine and traditional German comfort food. This restaurant has existed since before 1628. And, Napolean was a patron of Zum Schiffchen. Originally this restaurant was an inn and brewery outside the city walls. All of the food is reasonably priced and tasted fantastic.

Visit the Baroque Benrath Palace

Benrath Palace built as a summer residence and hunting lodge for the Elector Carl Theodor over 200 years ago. It is close to the Rhine in the south of Düsseldorf and today is slated for a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. The Elector envisioned this palace for his wife, Elizabeth Auguste, perhaps that is why it is pink. Every room inside the palace has a matching garden area on the grounds. Legend has it that Elizabeth may have only visited the palace once and never stayed the night. Karl Theodor, on the other hand, came to relax and use the palace as a hunting lodge a few times. The palace was left in the care of servants most of the time. The Palace has a 60-hectare, immaculately maintained formal garden.

Today, Benrath Palace is divided into two museums. The Museum of European Garden Art in the east wing and the Museum of Natural History in the west wing. In these museums, you will enjoy sculptures, artwork, paintings, and other artifacts from the 18th century. The inside décor of the palace with its furniture, porcelain, and paintings will provide an impression of court life in the second half of the 18th century.

Breidenbacher Hof, a Capella Hotel

For the best experience, while in Dusseldorf, we recommend staying at Breidenbacher Hof, a capella hotel. If you are not familiar with Capella hotels, let me explain. Capella Hotels are ultra-luxurious hotels, with a residential concept, designed for the most discerning travelers and offering personalized attention. Capella Hotels is not just a stay but an experience for curious travelers. Their hotels blend nature, history and the finest attention to detail to delight the senses.

At the Breidenbacher Hof every employee is there to provide each guest with the highest level of personalized service that is both unique and memorable. Located in the heart of Düsseldorf’s vibrant downtown, Breidenbacher Hof has the perfect location to enjoy the city’s cultural sights.

Our inviting, elegant, and exquisitely-finished room felt more like a chic urban flat than a hotel room. Breakfasts in Breidenbacher Hof’s renowned Brasserie “1806” had fantastic views over Düsseldorf’s Old Town. After a day of touring, we enjoyed having a drink and talking about our day in the Capella Bar. As our stay came to an end, we hated to leave.

Dusseldorf Germany Past and Present

Dusseldorf suffered greatly during WWII. However, Dusseldorf today is a forward-thinking modern city determined not to be defined by its past. Dusseldorf has a very clean, new and modern metro line. There is a flurry of cultural programs everywhere you look. Dusseldorf tries to make everyday life a richer experience. Take for instance the complementary museum display at the entrance of the new metro line. Dusseldorf will dazzle you with great architecture, international food, and exclusive shopping. It is a vibrant city and bustling with a culture that you don’t want to miss.

Check out our short video summary of Old Town Dusseldorf

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River cruising sets sail again thanks to the Mail!  Here are some of the best in Europe

There’s never been a better time to book your floating boutique hotel holiday

The ropes are off and the joy of river cruising can restart after the Foreign & Commonwealth Office changed its advice to give river cruising the green light this week. 

It’s something the Mail has been pushing for and we’re pleased the Government has listened.

Hop off a river cruise ship to find yourself in some of the prettiest towns and villages in Europe; cross the road to enter Avignon’s Palace of Popes, wander along the river bank into the centre of Bordeaux, step straight into Cologne for a cool beer and it’s access all areas with moorings alongside the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

River cruising is one of the most relaxing and comfortable forms of travel — and you can see so much of a country as you pass towns and villages, vine-clad valleys and fields of sunflowers bowing their heads in welcome.

So wake up with the sun rising over the Rhone, or cycle along the towpaths of the Danube while the early morning mist is still rising on the river.

Cruise lines also put on special tours along waterways — from private visits to Monet’s garden in Giverny, and after-hours tours to galleries and museums, to themed sailings to celebrate wine, gastronomy, gardens, art and history.

And now, after the pause in cruising, there are many incredible deals with alluring itineraries along Europe’s waterways. Some have a 50 per cent discount, so there’s never been a better time to book your floating boutique hotel holiday.

Bike it in Vienna

Cycle through the historic streets of Vienna and along the towpaths of the Danube on Emerald Sky’s ‘Danube Delights’ sailing. There are opportunities to go kayaking and, on-board, swim in the infinity pool or join Pilates and yoga classes.

The Nuremberg to Budapest sailing also calls at the medieval city of Regensburg and Passau, where Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers meet — look closely to see their three different colours in the water.

When: October 26, 2020.

Book it: Prices reduced by £2,200 per couple — from £998pp, including 52 per cent discount (panachecruises.com, 0161 513 8200).

Bordeaux in a 2cv

Scenic’s ‘Beautiful Bordeaux, Bordeaux Affair and new Flavours of Bordeaux’ cruises includes a complimentary pre-cruise stay at the Intercontinental Bordeaux

Toddle around Bordeaux’s wine region in a classic 2CV and enjoy a complimentary pre-cruise stay at the Intercontinental Bordeaux during Scenic’s ‘Beautiful Bordeaux, Bordeaux Affair and new Flavours of Bordeaux’ cruises.

Art-lovers can also enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the immersive digital art exhibition, Les Bassins de Lumières, inside Bordeaux’s former submarine base.

When: April 30, 2021.

Book it: Prices start from £3,645pp, including savings of £1,200pp based on April 30 departure, door-to-door chauffeur transfers and a deposit protection plan for risk-free booking when booked before August 14 (scenic.co.uk, 0808 159 5547).

Arty Rhone

A-Rosa was one of the first river-cruise companies to re-start sailings and its ‘Rhône Route Intensive’ sailing features plenty of activities for families during the Lyon to Provence cruise.

Pass vineyards and fields of lavender and, while in Arles, walk to Place du Forum where Van Gogh painted Café Terrace at Night.

On a balmy evening, sit outside the yellow-walled café and raise a glass of cognac to new-found cruise friends — and, as the midnight-blue sky becomes studded with stars, realise that art is not just on gallery walls but it is all around — you just have to look.

When: August 25, 2020.

Book it: 14 nights’ all-inclusive from £2,354pp (arosa-cruises.com, +49 0 381 202 6001).

Douro drinking

Flowing: The 126-passenger Douro Splendour’s seven-night ‘Douro, Porto & Salamanca’ river cruise, is for solo travellers. Pictured is Salamanca, Spain

Travelling with solo guests can be a great way to make new friends. The 126-passenger Douro Splendour’s seven-night ‘Douro, Porto & Salamanca’ river cruise, is for solo travellers who can share the pleasure of visiting Porto’s port wine cellars, take a tour of beautiful Salamanca and delight in the loveliness of Mateus Palace and gardens.

When: November 8, 2020.

Book it: Fly from Manchester, Gatwick or Birmingham airports and pay £1,799 for a river view cabin (passionforcruises.co.uk, 02920 619961).   

Burgundy barging

Prefer to travel in a small group with friends and family? La Belle Epoque first carried logs from Burgundy to Paris and has now been transformed into a deluxe vessel, sailing on the same canal.

Six crew look after up to 12 guests with all meals catered for by an onboard chef. Guests also enjoy an open bar with regional wines, chauffeured and guided sight- seeing tours and use of bicycles.

When: Sailings throughout summer 2020.

Book it: Receive a 20 per cent discount if booked by August 31. Price for 12 guests is £34,400 (reduced from £43,000) — £2,866pp (europeanwaterways.com, 01753 598555).  

Rhine and stay

Enjoy the delights  of Moselle valley in Germany on the ‘Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps’ river cruise

Guests on AmaMora can enjoy a three-night hotel stay by Lake Como after the seven-night ‘Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps’ river cruise, including the delights of the Moselle valley. Save £375pp.

When: September 3, 2020.

Book it: Sail from Amsterdam to Basel plus Lake Como hotel stay from £4,125 (amawaterways.co.uk, 0800 320 2335). 

The new black

River cruise fans who love to sail in to new ports will be thrilled by Avalon Artistry II’s 11-night Black Sea sailing, which features four new moorings — Ilok, Croatia; Golubac, Serbia; Hainburg, Austria and Constanta, Romania.

When: October 22, 2020.

Book it: Discounted price from £3,431pp to £2,931pp. Includes wine with lunch and dinner, tours and tips, plus an overnight stay in Bucharest (avaloncruises.co.uk, 0800 668 1801).

Seine idea

Visit Monet’s garden at Giverny (above) and make a pilgrimage to the Normandy beaches on this Paris round-trip

Sailing along the Seine, a serene ribbon of green river to Normandy, is one of the most popular routes for British travellers who can easily hop to Paris on Eurostar, take a ferry and coach, or fly in to the city.

New Viking Longship Rinda’s eight-day ‘Paris & the Heart of Normandy’ cruise is flanked by overnight stays in the capital. Visit Monet’s garden at Giverny and make a pilgrimage to the Normandy beaches on this Paris round-trip.

When: December 8, 2020.

Book it: Prices from £2,895 pp. Bookings made by July 31 are covered by Viking’s risk-free guarantee policy (vikingcruises.co.uk, 0800 319 66 60).

Days in the delta

Spend 15 days river cruising from Germany on MS Arena to explore Belgrade, Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna, as well as travelling to Bucharest, Novi Sad and the Danube Delta.

When: July and September 2021.

Book it: From £1,895pp, including flights from London Heathrow to Munich and return from Cologne (arenarivercruises.co.uk, 01858 435 655). 

WHEN WILL OCEAN VOYAGES RESUME?  

With the Foreign & Commonwealth Office cruise travel advice changing week by week, we steer you through the choppiest of waters.

Q. I’m longing for a cruise but how long before the Government gives ocean cruising the go-ahead?

A. The FCO says its cruise advice is ‘under continual review’ and it will not be changed until it is considered safe to do so. Most cruise lines have paused services until at least September and are working to put procedures in place to protect passengers.

Q. Can British travellers now go on a river cruise?

A. Yes. The FCO changed its advice on Wednesday and a spokesman has told Escape: ‘The point about river cruise ships being smaller and carrying fewer passengers reached the FCO. Our advice against cruise travel now only applies to ocean cruises.’

Q. Can passengers go on an around-Britain cruise?

A. No. FCO advice still stands against this, but there is progress being made with the cruise lines’ body, the Cruise Lines International Association, continuing talks with the Department of Transport because the matter falls under its responsibility.

Q. Would I be breaking the law if I decided to go on an overseas cruise this month?

A. No. The FCO guidance is advisory. A British traveller is free to travel pretty much anywhere. Getting insurance would be the problem.

Q. If a passenger wants to book an ocean cruise, when should they do so?

A. Now! 2021 is already busy, so if there is an itinerary you fancy, book sooner rather than later. There are some strong offers combined with low deposits and flexible booking conditions which allow you to cancel within 14 days of departure.

Q. If I have booked a cruise this autumn and the FCO advice is still in place, what options do I have?

A. This is something you should talk through with your travel agent, who should liaise with the cruise line for the outcome you prefer.

‘This will vary from cruise line to cruise line,’ says Edwina Lonsdale, managing director of Mundy Cruising. ‘There are a range of options from transferring the booking to a future date, accepting a Future Cruise Credit, often with a bonus value, or taking a refund.’

Q. Which cruise lines offer a risk-free guarantee?

A. Many lines are offering cruise guarantees. In the case of Viking, its guarantee allows guests to change their cruise date up to 24 hours before their planned departure, with no fees. This covers reservations made by July 31.

Q. How does the FCO’s advice affect passengers’ insurance for an ocean cruise this autumn?

A. Check with your insurance company. Insurers are all focusing on adapting their policies to accommodate the new challenges to travellers.

Q. Will itineraries change in the year ahead?

A. Yes, it is likely that there could be changes to itineraries while cruise lines work to the safest practices.

Several countries have cruise bans in place. This week the U.S. extended its no-sail ban to September 30. In Canada, ships carrying more than 100 passengers are banned until October 31, Australia’s ban is until September 17, while the Seychelles is closed to cruise ships until 2022.

Q. Is there any other point worth making?

A. Yes, a big one. The current FCO advice not to take an ocean cruise is obviously for travel now. This is ‘irrelevant because the major cruise lines have paused sailings,’ says James Cole of Panache Cruises. ‘By the time the cruise lines re-start later this year, it’s highly likely that the FCO advice will have changed again.’ So watch this space.

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Our Rhineland adventure is not over yet without visiting another notable city of Bonn, Germany. After spending a day in Koblenz was a success, I wanted to visit another underrated or unpopular cities in Europe. 

Yes! You’ve heard it. Bonn the Federal city in Germany, honestly, I haven’t heard from this city. Until one of my co-travel bloggers contributed a piece for my collaboration blog post of 9 Unpopular Places to visit in Europe.  

Did you know that Bonn was the capital of the Electorate of Cologne and residence of the Archbishops and Prince-electors of Cologne?

And it was also the capital of West Germany back in the days? The city is home to the University of Bonn and a total of 20 United Nations institutions.

Getting to know more about Bonn

Settled close to the border with Rhineland-Palatinate. Bonn Germany is the largest metropolitan area with over 11 million inhabitants.

It lies spanning an area of more 141.2 km2 on both sides of the river Rhine, almost three-quarters of the city lies on the river’s left bank.

Bonn is said to be The Gate to the Romantic Rhine. Furthermore, Bonn is a 2000-year-old history city and has become very engaging as a cultural destination. And is well-known for its top exhibitions and events.

As I’ve mentioned, Bonn is the place of birth of Ludwig van Beethoven, the world-famous composer. He has been a renowned university city since the early 19th century. Beethoven-House can be found in the city center.

Some of the exhibitions and collections from Bonn’s Museum, like House of History of the Federal Republic of Germany, Art Museum Bonn, German Museum Bonn, and many more attract more than 2 million visitors every year.

Places must-visit in Bonn Germany

There are some beautiful places to visit in Bonn. Including its wonderful churches Bonn Minster, Doppelkirche Schwarzrheindorf, Old Cemetery Bonn, one of the best-known cemeteries in Germany.

There’s Kreuzbergkirche, and St. Remigius, where Beethoven was baptized.

You also have to check out the famous castle in Bonn, Germany. It’s the Schloss Drachenburg, a private villa styled as a palace and constructed in the late 19th century.

The villa is owned by the State Foundation of North Rhine-Westphalia. On the other hand, there’s Godesburg, a castle in Bad Godesberg, a formerly independent part of Bonn.

Accordingly, Godesburg castle became a ruin and was rebuilt according to plans by Gottfried Böhm. Today, the restaurant is still open, but the hotel thas been divided into apartments.

Old Town Hall

The Altes Rathaus (old town hall), as seen from the central market square, was built in 1737 in Rococo-style. Rococo-style or less commonly Roccoco or Late Baroque.

It is an exceptionally ornamental and theatrical style of architecture, it creates surprise and the illusion of motion and drama. It is often described as the final expression of the Baroque movement.

The old town hall was built under the rule of Elector Clemens August. The steps leading up to the building are world-famous due to numerous receptions for State guests.

Getting into the market center was pretty cool, it was my first time seeing the photo that my co-blogger sent to me, and I can remember it vividly.

Bonn’s old town hall really looks beautiful and has many folks around the area. It reminds me a bit of the old town hall in Brussels. Because it was also surrounded by some restaurants and cafés.

Bonn Minster

As you can see from the backdrop view, it is Bonn’s nine-hundred-years-old Roman Catholic church. Built on a Roman burial ground. It is powerful, yet slender-looking, 92 meters high spire.

It is one of Germany’s oldest churches, having been built between the 11th and 13th centuries.

At one point the church served as the cathedral for the Archbishopric of Cologne. However, the Minster is now a minor basilica. It served as the inspiration for the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church in Berlin.

Our Half Day Tour

Exploring Bonn, Germany was super exciting. After parking our car in the nearest parking area. We headed to the center of Bonn, and on our way there. I’ve seen some of the majestic ruins that the city offers.

Regrettably, there’s no description on its wall. So I’m not even sure its called Sterntor. I saw it on our way to the tourist office before getting to the center square.

Glaring the city center square, we were surprised by the statues of Beethoven displayed in this huge square. I’m not even sure how many statues were there, but there were a lot.

Bonn Center Square

The square was filled by it. There were different colors (green and yellow) statues. It was quite weird colors, but I successfully able to take some photos. Luckily, Hubby was kind enough to take some photos of me (haha).

Strolling the center, we first went to the Tourism office. We bought a city map for .50 cents. Then we started to stroll again around the vicinity of Bonn. We even tried to enter the Bonn Minster (oldest church). But it was closed due to the construction ongoing.

We kept on wandering/shopping tour. Finally, after half an hour we found the best place to eat. It was in the Town Hall square, where we found a simple restaurant.

Break Time

Hubby ordered a beer sans alcohol and I asked for apple juice. We both ordered something to eat as a meal before heading back to our car. It was already lunchtime, we have to eat and after that go back to Brussels on the same day. I ordered some Asparagus salad mix with parmesan cheese.

Hubby took Cordon Blue with mushroom sauce. It was a nice and satisfying meal. We really enjoyed!

Other places to visit in Bonn Germany are Beethoven House, The University of Bonn, Poppelsdorfer Palace and Botanical Garden, Schumann’s House, Post Tower, and many more. 

Curious about how our travel to Bonn Germany went? Check out our Travel vlog!



Exploring Bonn Germany

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Exploring Bonn Germany, Ludwig van Beethoven’s Birhtplace Our Rhineland adventure is not over yet without visiting another notable city of Bonn, Germany. After…

[willreadforbooze]

Hello!

Here’s our weekly wrap up from the WRFB crew =)

Sam’s Update:

I got a lot of reading done this week. I was in the Poconos for a friend’s birthday and it was super chill, then I made sure to dedicate some reading time since I have 5 (yes FIVE) more books to read to finish up my NEWTs.

What Sam finished this week:

NEWTs E-level Transfiguration: Age of Legend by Michael J Sullivan: This is the 4th installment of this series. This wasn’t my favorite of his books, but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t exceptional. I love all of this man’s books. So much.

NEWTs O-level Transfiguration: Lady Smoke by Laura Sebastian: this is the sequel to Ash Princess. I think this one was ok, but not nearly as good as the first. Suffered from 2nd-book syndrome I think.

NEWTs A-level Ancient Runes: All Systems Red by Martha Wells: This was a re-read for me since I had basically forgotten the plot. I knew I loved Murderbot but not what had happened. I’m pretty happy with my reread (also switched this out from Radical Candor because that one was too long for this readathon)

NEWTs A-level Arithmancy: Fireborne by Rosaria Munda: Picked up this ARC at ALA and damn it was a good choice. Great debut, great story. Full review to come.

NEWTs E-level Charms: Illegal by Eoin Colfer: A graphic novel about a boy from Ghana trying to get to Europe for a better life. This was heartbreaking to see the boy go across the desert, across the sea, and all its horrors. Flew through this.

What Sam’s reading now:

NEWTs E-level Ancient Runes: Nottingham by Nathan Makaryk: Another ALA ARC grab, but am listening on audio since it came out on Aug 6th. In this story, Robin Hood follows King Richard on his crusade and it’s Maid Marian who is steals from the rich to give to the poor. Only just started but I am excite.

NEWTs O-level Charms: The Future of Another Timeline by Annalie Newitz: Considering I’m only a chapter in, I will save the summary and my thoughts until next week.

Ginny’s Update:

I hope you’ve had a great week and are ready to jump in to Monday proper. I have a massage lined up for tonight so regardless of how the actual day goes, I know I’m gonna have a great afternoon!

Currently Reading:

Normal People by Sally Rooney: I’ve heard such good things about this book and it finally came up from the library! It follows two teens, one popular/one not, as they start dating away from the public eye. I think it’s going to swap when they go to college but I haven’t gotten there yet. The characters are realistic and can be oblivious in the way I’ve always felt a little bit oblivious, so I’m enjoying it so far. 

Stormrise by Julian Boehme: I literally just started reading this so I’m like 20 pages in and don’t have much to say yes. Except apparently this is going to be Mulan but with dragons!!!!! I’ve been playing a lot of Skyrim recently so I AM HERE FOR DRAGONS!

Just Finished:

Visions of Heat by Nalini Singh: Yeah this is a series where I’m constantly either going to be reading one of the books, or will at least have it on hold at the library. This follows one of the secondary characters is the first book, and includes an F-psy who can forecast the future. There’s a lot of him trying to get her acclimated to physical contact which was not necessarily my jam. A little too much, i know better than her, which, ugh. Regardless, still a fun story and gets a 3.5/5

Hope Never Dies by Andrew Shaffer: I wrote a review. I have strong opinions. Book club for this is Wednesday… … … 

Forbidden by Beverly Jenkins: This will surprise no one but I follow a bunch of romance novelists on twitter. They are delightful and have definitely influenced my reading list. I’ve heard about this author forever and I’m disappointed it took me this long to finally read one of her books. Eddy is a badass and is slowly working her way towards California with both good and bad luck. Rhine is a former slave who is light skinned enough to pass as white and has decided to do so. They meet and there’s instant chemistry. Except Eddy shuts that shit down, she knows what happens between a mixed race couple after the civil war…. It’s delightful. 4/5

The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow: I love a good portal novel and whoo boy. I’m definitely writing a review of this one because I would like to honor January’s love and honor of writing and the power of the written word.

Midnight Blue-Light Special by Seanan McGuire: This is the sequel to Discount Armageddon which I read last week. The worlds that she builds are SO GREAT! Quick summary. Verity has been warned by her quasi-boyfriend that the Covenant are coming to New York for a purge. Obviously this is worriesome. Review forthcoming.

The Attack by Yasmina Khadra: In my head I’m singing “One of these things is not like the other.” This was a look at what happens in a country that has dealt with constant low level terrorism. The main character’s wife is a suicide bomber in an attack that kills a number of people. He decides he needs to figure out what happened and where he went wrong. The search is interesting, but I found the ending to be a little bit abrupt. While that makes sense in the narrative arc of the book, I still found myself disappointed that there wasn’t some sort of ending that allows Amin to choose a side and make a directional shift. 3/5

Minda’s Update:

Oof. Still doing NEWTs, but it’s slow going.

What Minda is reading now:

The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow – Moving along, but it’s moving slowly.

Space Opera by Catherynne M. Valente – Expected to pick this up last week, but didn’t. This week it is!

Linz’s Update:

Oh god I felt so ready for DragonCon and now I feel woefully underprepared. I literally went into my calendar and blocked next Saturday off to finish work.

What Linz read:

The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern: YOU GUYSSSSSSSSSS. UGH. EVERYTHING.

The Candle and the Flame by Nafiza Asad: Middle East/central Asia-inspired debut fantasy, with djinn and lots of food and some great characters. (It was a solid debut and honestly I preferred it to City of Brass).

The Butterfly Garden by Dot Hutchinson: So, a bunch of girls were kidnapped by a rich crazy guy, who makes them live in a hidden garden and tattoos butterfly wings on their backs.They get rescued (THIS IS LITERALLY IN THE GOODREADS DESCRIPTION NOT A SPOILER), and the FBI tries to pick apart what happened with a cagey survivor. You def already knew what happened so it lost some of the potential tension, and the survivor isn’t really that mysterious, just has a drama-heavy backstory. It was fine?

After by Anna Todd: NOPE. Review forthcoming.

What Linz is currently reading:

I actually had to take a little reading break to get stuff done, but I *did* just get Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree from the library, so likely starting that today, or my ARC of The Bone Houses by Emily Lloyd-Jones

Until next time, we remain forever drunkenly yours,

Sam, Melinda, Linz, and Ginny

Weekly Wrap-Up: August 11-18, 2019 Hello! Here's our weekly wrap up from the WRFB crew =) Sam's Update: I got a lot of reading done this week.

[europeanromanticism]

Byron, Shelley 6/19

Prometheus Unbound BY  PERCY BYSSHE SHELLEY

Background:  Percy Bysshe Shelley was born on August 4t  h 1792 in Horsham, Sussex, England and died at the age of 29 on July 8t  h 1822. Percy was a very influential, and inspiring amongst lyric and philosophical poets in the English language. Percy did not see fame during his lifetime However, all his recognition came after his death. He was well known for being a rebellion against authority, his power of the visionary imagination and of poetry, and his spirit in search of freedom. This was not only displayed in his works but this is also how Percy chose to live his life. Most publishers and journals declined to publish his work for fear of being arrested for either  a religious crime o  r  troublemaking . One can say Shelley’s poetry was harsher than what the people were ready for. This can all be seen in Shelley’s poem  “ Prometheus Unbound” by Percy Bysshe Shelley. Prometheus Unbound is a four act lyrical drama that was published in 1820. It is a story of Prometheus, who betrays the Gods and gives fire to humanity. He is punished for this action and is left to suffer. Prometheus struggles to become free from captivity because Jupiter refuses to let him go. However, Jupiter is later left behind with his authority and ends up falling from power.

Quote 1: Whilst me, who am thy foe, eyeless in hate, Hast thou made reign and triumph, to thy scorn, O'er mine own misery and thy vain revenge. Three thousand years of sleep-unsheltered hours, And moments aye divided by keen pangs

Till they seemed years, torture and solitude, Scorn and despair,—these are mine empire:—

Question 1 : What does Prometheus mean when he says “these are mine empire”?

Quote 2 : Nailed to this wall of eagle-baffling mountain, Black, wintry, dead, unmeasured; without herb, Insect, or beast, or shape or sound of life. Ah me! alas, pain, pain ever, for ever!

Question2 : How do you think religion is tied into the poem? What is Prometheus describing?

Quote 3:

The curse

Once breathed on thee I would recall. Ye Mountains, Whose many-voicèd Echoes, through the mist

Of cataracts, flung the thunder of that spell! Ye icy Springs, stagnant with wrinkling frost,

Which vibrated to hear me, and then crept Shuddering through India! Thou serenest Air, Through which the Sun walks burning without beams! And ye swift Whirlwinds, who on poisèd wings Hung mute and moveless o'er yon hushed abyss, As thunder, louder than your own, made rock The orbèd world! If then my words had power, Though I am changed so that aught evil wish Is dead within; although no memory be Of what is hate, let them not lose it now! What was that curse? for ye all heard me speak.

Question 3:

How would you describe the poems ending verses it’s beginning? Do you think Prometheus truly learned a lesson?

Question 4:

How would you connect this poem to the time period of romanticism? Does this poem relate to any of the past stories or poems we have read?

Question 5:

What do you think is this poem’s overall message? How do you think the writer wanted his audience to receive this poem?

Argument:

One can argue that in the poem  Prometheus Unbound  Shelley wrote with an intent of raising some questions in the reader’s head. Does religion play as a dictator in our lives? Or is it a guide that one can use to seek freedom and peace? In the poem it states

Made multitudinous with thy slaves, whom thou Requitest for knee-worship, prayer, and praise, Where it states those that pray and worship are enslaved mentally,physically and spiritually.  Shelley was known to despise marriage and institutions like the

Christian Church and the Monarchy. Which is why he identifies Jupiter as a Monarch.   Shelley uses symbolism to show that resistance against authority can lead to extreme punishment and isolation from society.   Shelley was a radical thinker that believed  in freedom.By going against Jupiter and giving humanity  fire , Prometheus is essentially a hero for challenging the authoritative figure. He feels that everyone should live this way so that they can experience true freedom. Prometheus was willing to sacrifice his own comfort and life in order to stand up to power of Jupiter and live within his freedom.

DON JUAN, CANTO III

Background

George Gordon Noel Byron, 6th Baron Byron, was born 22 January 1788 in London and died 19 April 1824 in Missolonghi, Greece. He was among the most famous of the English ‘Romantic’ poets; his contemporaries included Percy Shelley and John Keats. He was also a satirist whose poetry and personality captured the imagination of Europe. His major works include Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage (1812-18) and Don Juan (1819-24). He died of fever and exposure while engaged in the Greek struggle for independence.

Born with a clubfoot, he was taken by his mother, Catherine Gordon, to Aberdeen, Scotland, where they lived in lodgings on a meager income.He was extremely sensitive of his lameness; its effect upon his character was obvious enough . It was rumored that his nurse, May Gray, made physical advances to him when he was only nine. This experience and his idealized love for his distant cousins Mary Duff and Margaret Parker shaped his paradoxical attitudes toward women.

In 1803 he fell in love with his distant cousin, Mary Chaworth, who was older and already engaged, and when she rejected him she became the symbol for Byron of idealized and unattainable love. In 1805 Byron entered Trinity College, Cambridge, where he piled up debts at an alarming rate and indulged in the conventional vices of undergraduates there. The signs of his incipient  sexual  ambivalence  became more pronounced in what he later described as “a violent, though pure, love and passion” for a young chorister, John Edleston. Alongside Byron’s strong attachment to boys, often idealized as in the case of Edleston, his attachment to women throughout his life is an indication of the strength of his heterosexual drive.

During the summer of 1813, Byron apparently entered into  intimate  relations with his half sister Augusta, now married to Colonel George Leigh. He then carried on a flirtation with Lady Frances Webster as a diversion from this dangerous liaison. The agitations of these two love affairs and the sense of mingled guilt and exultation they aroused in Byron are reflected in the series of gloomy and remorseful Oriental verse tales he wrote at this time:  The Giaour (1813);  The Bride of Abydos ��(1813);  The Corsair  (1814), which sold 10,000 copies on the day of publication; and  Lara  (1814).

Seeking to escape his love affairs in marriage, Byron proposed in September 1814 to Anne Isabella (Annabella) Milbanke. The marriage took place in January 1815, and Lady Byron gave birth to a daughter,  Augusta Ada , in December 1815. From the start the marriage was doomed by the gulf between Byron and his unimaginative and humorless wife; and in January 1816 Annabella left Byron to live with her parents, amid swirling rumours centring on his relations with Augusta Leigh and his bisexuality. The couple obtained a  legal separation . Wounded by the general moral indignation directed at him, Byron went abroad in April 1816, never to return to England.

Byron sailed up the  Rhine River  into Switzerland and settled at Geneva, near  Percy Bysshe Shelley  and Mary Godwin (soon to be  Mary Shelley ), who had eloped and were living with Claire Clairmont, Godwin’s half sister. (Byron had begun an affair with Clairmont in England.)

At the end of the summer the Shelley party left for England, where Clairmont gave birth to Byron’s daughter Allegra in January 1817. In October Byron and Hobhouse departed for  Italy . They stopped in  Venice , where Byron enjoyed the relaxed customs and  morals  of the Italians and carried on a love affair with Marianna Segati, his landlord’s wife.

In the light, mock-heroic style of  Beppo  Byron found the form in which he would write his greatest poem,   Don Juan , a satire in the form of a picaresque verse tale. The first two cantos of  Don Juan  were begun in 1818 and published in July 1819. Byron transformed the legendary libertine  Don Juan  into an unsophisticated, innocent young man who, though he delightedly succumbs  to the beautiful women who pursue him, remains a rational norm against which to view the absurdities and irrationalities of the world.

Summary of Don Juan

The story, told in seventeen cantos, begins with the birth of Don Juan. As a young man he is precocious sexually, and has an affair with a friend of his mother. The husband finds out, and Don Juan is sent away to Cádiz. On the way, he is shipwrecked, survives and meets the daughter of a pirate, whose men sell Don Juan as a slave. A young woman, who is a member of a sultan’s harem, sees that this slave is purchased. She disguises him as a girl and sneaks him into her chambers. Don Juan escapes, joins the Russian army and rescues a Muslim girl named Leila. Don Juan meets Catherine the Great, who asks him to join her court. Don Juan becomes sick, is sent to England, where he finds someone to watch over Leila. Next, a few adventures involving the aristocracy of Britain ensued.

Canto III A long digression from the main story in which Byron, in the style of an epic catalogue, describes Haidée and Don Juan’s celebrations. The islanders believe Haidée’s father, Lambro, has died, but he returns and witnesses these revels.  Towards the end of the canto, Byron insults his contemporaries  William Wordsworth ,  Robert Southey  and  Samuel Taylor Coleridge . In this latter section is “The Isles of  Greece ”, a section numbered differently from the rest of the canto with a different verse, which explores Byron’s views on G reece’s status as a “slave” to th e Ottoman Empire .

Don Juan  remains unfinished; Byron completed 16 cantos and had begun the 17th before his own illness and death. Over forty operas have been based on his works, in addition to three operas about Byron himself (including Virgil Thomson’s Lord Byron). His poetry was set to music by many Romantic composers, including Beethoven , Schubert , Rossini , Mendelssohn , Schumann , and Carl Loewe. There are 900 different poems of George Gordon, Lord Byron and almost all of them are about love to a woman.

Question 1: Byron removes himself from his writing and critiques his own characters; writing about love and women in an ironic and satirical fashion. Is it means to provoke just humor, or is this in response to others who do not approve of his previous works?

Quote 1:

“Haidee and Juan were not married, but The fault was theirs, not mine; it is not fair, Chaste reader, then, in any way to put The blame on me, unless you wish they were; Then if you ’d have them wedded, please to shut The book which treats of this erroneous pair,

Before the consequences grow too awful; ’T is dangerous to read of loves unlawful.”

Question 2: Byron goes off on a stagnant where a poet entertains DJ and Haidee with a lyrical ballad “The Isles of Greece”, a lament for Greece’s present state of subjection to Turkey. After the poem, he then deviates on the subject and talks about how a poet’s words has a lasting effect on the temporary nature of human fame, calling out (mocking) Wordsworth, Coleridge and other authors. What purpose does this serve in this canto and how does it tie into the original story being told?

Quote 2:

“But words are things, and a small drop of ink, Falling like dew, upon a thought, produces That which makes thousands, perhaps millions, think; ’T is strange, the shortest letter which man uses Instead of speech, may form a lasting link Of ages; to what straits old Time reduces Frail man, when paper—even a rag like this, Survives himself, his tomb, and all that ’s his.”

“Which pye being opened they began to sing’ (This old song and new simile holds good), ‘A dainty dish to set before the King’ Or Regent, who admires such kind of food. And Coleridge too has lately taken wing,

But like a hawk encumbered with his hood, Explaining metaphysics to the nation. I wish he would explain his explanation.”

“And Wordsworth in a rather long Excursion (I think the quarto holds five hundred pages) Has given a sample from the vasty version Of his new system to perplex the sages.

'Tis poetry, at least by his assertion, And may appear so when the Dog Star rages, And he who understands it would be able To add a story to the tower of Babel.”

Question 3: Byron fails to mention what happens to DJ and Haidee’s relationship and whether or not Haidée realizes that her father has come home. Why not go on with his satirical pros on the development of romance or tragedy? And do you think this Canto was purely written to mock or to express his political views of society?

Argument:

“Soft hour! which wakes the wish and melts the heart, Of those who sail the seas, on the first day, When they from their sweet friends are torn apart; Or fills with love the pilgrim on his way, As the far bell of vesper makes him start, Seeming to weep the dying day’s decay; Is this a fancy which our reason scorns? Ah! surely nothing dies but something mourns!”

Byron embraces his speaker Don Juan and uses him to express his own criticisms of English people and their culture. He takes on various views about gender,societal roles, the plea for conquered Greece, and the amusing attacks on poets while keeping to his satirical nature. In the midst of all of his own criticisms, I believe the point of this work is to express how life is short lived and even when something is gone, words written and read can send a message to be remembered throughout the ages.

[angrycollectordaze-me-blog]

Paper代写：Expressionism painting

本篇paper代写- Expressionism painting讨论了表现主义绘画。表现主义绘画是现代主义美术发展初期的重要流派。20世纪初，为了主观情感的表达，画���们在艺术作品中用色对比强烈，构图夸张变形甚至怪诞扭曲，用以表现内心的强烈情感。虽然他们的艺术形式和思想主张有分别，但他们都不在乎记录视觉印象，也不在乎对客观世界外在的表达，反对艺术的目的性，而旨人类情感体验与内在精神价值的表达，因此将他们都归为表现主义。本篇paper代写由51due代写平台整理，供大家参考阅读。

​Expressionism painting for the early modernist art development, an important form. At the beginning of the 20th century, known as the "avant-garde movement" genre of art activities and active unprecedentedly, Rhine formed different new art factions, their representatives respectively fauvism, France, Germany, dresden bridge club in northern and southern Germany in Munich, the green knight. They all think art should give priority to with spirit, representation of an object shape is secondary. To the expression of subjective emotion, color contrast and painters in art, and composition of a picture exaggeration even grotesque distortion, to show strong emotions. Although their art form and idea have respectively, but they have in common: don't care record visual impression, also don't care the external expression of the objective world and against the purpose of art, the purport of human emotional experience and the expression of inner spirit value, so they are classified as "expressionism".

Various avant-garde art movement in the early 20th century, is one of the earliest art genres appeared fauvism. In Paris in 1905 more than Dan the gallery display, led by Matisse, artists, their works majolica, exaggerated modelling, style is weird, critics walker, criticizing them as "a group of wild animals", brutalist hence the name. Since 1905, was honored brutalist painting style, although extremely painters very stressed their painting originality, but still have some common features. They generally strong coloring, replace with pure color contrast, regardless of volume and perspective, subjectivity is very strong, composition, shape and subject matter most images have adornment.

Henry Matisse is the representative of fauvism painters and leader, brave and strong modelling, colour, exaggerated deformation harmony composition of a picture is a sign of his work. In 1905, he exhibited works formed its own unique style of mature, including the image with the green stripe ", "open window", "luxury quiet pleasure" and so on. These works, Matisse used a rhythmic outline peace with bright color piece to strengthen the expressive force and create a strong and harmonious color of the light and the space effect. 1906-1907, he continued to draw simple and lively work, highlight the adornment style. About 1909-1910, two of his huge painting "music" and "dance" marked the creation peak of Matisse, he is more and more pay attention to the simplicity and the decorative picture, trying to free imagination, in the form of the most concise and strong color piece contrast to express their emotions. These two picture with dark red painting figures, green and dark blue as the background, the use of different extent and the means of paper-cut and photography. "Music" in the painting, the conception of perfect harmony, Matisse to beautiful painted blue sky, painted with bright green earth, with the vivid red human performance. "I got from these three colors of light, and I hope to get pure color harmony between." - Matisse said. Sent the beast that exaggerated color and strong strokes play more incisively and vividly yes influenced by van gogh passion landscape painter, lachman morris and Andre virtuous orchid. Virtuous orchid landscape directly made large flat with high purity color, he can even bright pure color to paint the smoke-filled Thames, on behalf of as the "London bridge waters". Art activities of only about three years from 1905 to 1907. 1908 years later, most of the artists began to split, which created a black later cubist painting. Only still in their own path Matisse, lifelong defending what he called "harmony, pure and peaceful" the beast in the art.

In French fauvism limelight heat at the same time, the German expressionism is the emergence and development. Norwegian artist monk has a direct impact on the German expressionism. His childhood misfortune directly affected his writing style, in his paintings, subject matter more for sex, disease and death, with a strong pessimistic emotion. His early works the sick children, next to the clinical, more than the mother's death is the representation of his miserable childhood memory. Since the 1890 s, he began to write performance factors of work, with its own unique painting language calls and reveal people inside concealed anguish and pain. His representative works "scream" with turbulent line, horrifying pictures and composition profound raised the spectre of loneliness and the fear of death. His innovative spirit and unique artistic style to promote the emergence and development of German expressionism.

German expressionist two of the most famous groups, one is founded in dresden bridge club in 1905, the other one is from Munich in 1911 green knight new artists association. Bridge club of the initiator and representative ernst the kirchners, emil director and erich black Kerr. Stresses must show the painter when they create the illusion of personal and emotional, opposed blindly imitate nature, calls for artists against traditional academy of academic, hopes to establish a new, with the German historical tradition to contact but full of modern feeling and form of art, also is to erect a "bridge" between the traditional and modern, so the group named "bridge club". The kirchners is under the influence of gauguin and van gogh, promoting "naturalism", emphasize the painter's subjectivity and painting elements such as lines, brush strokes, color. From his famous portrait of the artist and the model of his can see, the picture carefully and powerful, to use the orange and blue, pink and green strong color contrast, works contains a Matisse lack of strong emotional color, stronger visual impact. Affected by the monk and the African sculpture, ugly black Kerr shaping characters, in the spirit of their anxiety, pathological form shows. Director is a Christian, his best work depicting Christ's life, such as "the last supper", "" the life of Christ, the Christ in the midst of the children, etc., even his landscape painting contains religious sentiment. The last supper of Christ and his disciples image exaggeration, director and mysterious symbol expression, will this religious painting behaved very religious.

Another expressionist group green knight, is by the russians who settled in Munich vassili kangding and two young painter Franz marek and auguste mike co-founded in 1911. Compared with the bridge club, no matter from the exhibition of international and compatibility, the green knight is more open, but they haven't formed a common style have a common belief that hope will not be visible inner spirit with abstract lyrical language expression for the shape and color of visible, fusing the spirit of artistic expression and profound content. The leader of the green knight kandinsky on 20th century art has the profound influence. Actively explore various art between equivalent of his life, tried to unifying reason and sensibility, through art to create a non representational painting, create a kind of independent abstract painting language, to achieve a kind of make people both physical and psychological effect of synesthesia can produce pleasure. At the same time, he also studies with circular and triangular geometry abstract as the main form of abstract painting. Kandinsky's works "on the spirit of the art", and the thesis "on form problem" "from point and line to plane" has reflected the achievements of his thoughts, but also become the theoretical basis of abstract art. Marek likes to keep animals as an original and a symbol of purity, claim to the art status instead of the traditional religion and philosophy. His masterpiece "the blue horse", the picture color is bright, bright and beautiful large area of blue on the red, yellow, green surrounded by a distinguished calm and lively, the animal perfectly embodied in the universe and the creator's masterpiece, poetic and sentimental feelings. Mike's painting style influenced by impressionism, fauvism, and cubism, learned their feeling and atmosphere, and combined with Germany's artistic appeal, poetic works with the lyricism, magnum opus "zoo".

Expressionism occupies a unique place in the western art history, its internal spirit has extremely strong vitality, not only contributed to the birth of expressionist aesthetics, a wider impact the artistic creation of modern China and even the whole world, the exploration and development of art should not be neglected, created a model of is also difficult to catch.

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[josephkitchen0]

Historical Background of Alpine Goats

By Paul Hamby – Goats, including Alpine goats, are believed to be the first animal domesticated by man. Bones of goats have been found in caves along with evidence of human inhabitation of those caves. One of the goat remains had evidence of a healed broken leg that could have only healed under the protection of a human. Scientists determined she would have died in the wild without human intervention. Her remains have been carbon dated to 12,000–15,000 years ago. These goats were the Persian (middle eastern) goat “Pashang.”

Some Pashang migrated to the Alps Mountains. It is likely that some of them went to the Alps along with their human companions and other wild herds moved there. Our present day Alpine goats descend from the Pashang goat, also known as the Bezoar goat. Alpines are found throughout the Alps Mountains, their namesake, in Europe. Over thousands of years, natural selection developed the Alpine goat breed with superior agility to survive on steep mountain slopes. They developed a perfect sense of balance. Alpine goats are also one of the best goats for milk, as you’ll learn as we continue to learn the history of the Alpine goat breed.

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Alpine goats maintained their ability to survive in arid regions. European goat herders started selective breeding for milk production and favorite colors. The adaptability of Alpine goats, sense of balance, and personality made them good candidates for voyages. Early voyages were made feasible by taking along goats for milk and meat. The early sea captains often left a pair of goats on islands along their shipping routes. On return voyages, they could stop and catch a meal or a fresh source of milk.

Today Alpine goats can be found thriving in nearly every climate and the goat is the most common farm animal found around the world. When the first settlers came to America, they brought along their milk goats. Captain John Smith and Lord Delaware brought goats here. A 1630 census of Jamestown lists goats as one of their most valuable assets. Swiss breeds along with Spanish and Austrian goats were brought to America from 1590s to 1700. The Austrian and Spanish breeds were similar to the Swiss breeds though they tended to be smaller. Cross breeding produced a common American goat. In 1915 a wild Alpine-type goat was taken from the Guadeloupe Islands. She produced 1,600 lbs. of milk in 310 days.

A turning point for goats in America came in 1904. Carl Hagenbeck imported two Schwarzwald Alpine goats from the Black Forest of Germany. They were displayed at the World’s Fair in St. Louis at Hagenbeck’s Wild Animal Paradise. After the fair they were sold and shipped to Maryland. Their history is unknown. Frenchman Joseph Crepin and Oscar Dufresne of Canada, imported a group of Alpines to Canada and California. The American Milk Goat Record Association (now known as the American Dairy Goat Association—ADGA) was started in 1904. That same year the official spelling of “milch” changed to “milk” in the U.S.

From 1904 to 1922, 160 Saanens were imported to the United States. From 1893 to 1941, 190 Toggenburgs were imported. Common American goats were then crossed with the superior Toggenburg and Saanen goats. The breeding-up program was very successful. In 1921, Irmagarde Richards speculated that the success of the breeding-up program was due to common American goats having a similar European ancestry to the Purebred Swiss goats. Since the resulting animals often didn’t match the color requirements for Saanens and Toggenburgs, the animals became grade Alpines.

French Alpine Goats In 1922, Dr. Charles P. Delangle with the aid of Mrs. Mary E. Rock, her brother Dr. Charles O. Fairbanks, Frenchman Joseph Crepin (author of La Chevre in 1918), and others imported the first documented group of French Alpines: 18 does and three bucks. These goats came from France where the Alpine is the most popular breed. The French had bred their version of the Alpine to a consistent size and very productive animal.

All purebred Alpines in the United States descend from this importation. One of the imported does, owned by Mary Rock, lived until December 1933. In 1942 Corl Leach, longtime editor of the Dairy Goat Journal describes French Alpines: “Color varies greatly and ranges from pure white through various shades and tones of fawn, gray, piebald, and brown to black.” One of the great things about raising Alpines is the anticipation of the color markings of the new kids. There was not a single doe of the cou blanc variety in the 1922 importation. In France there was no breed recognized separately and distinctly, as “French Alpine.” Dr. DeLangle considered them as of a general “Alpine race.”

French Alpine is an American name. In France today Alpines are called “Alpine polychrome” meaning of many colors. Dr. Delangle’s herd name was “Alpine Goat Dairy” but it was short lived. He was in poor health and had conflicts with a number of goat breeders including the goat association Board of Directors. On August 20, 1923 he was expelled from the American Milk Goat Record Association. He sold and gave away his herd shortly after the importation and apparently left the world of goats.

Icy Alpine hello. Photo by Jennifer Stultz.

Rock Alpine Goats Rock Alpines were created by crossbreeding goats of the 1904 and 1922 importations. In 1904, through Frenchman Joseph Crepin, an importation of Alpines including Saanens and Toggs was brought to Canada. Mary E. Rock of California purchased some of these because of the illness of her little daughter. One doe from the 1904 importation was a cou blanc named Molly Crepin. She is the only imported cou blanc doe on record. She then acquired French Alpines from the 1922 importation.

Rock Alpine goats were the result of breeding these animals together without any other outside genetics. Rock Alpines were the finest of their time and regularly won at shows and milking competitions. The Saanens used were either Sables or color carriers. One of her Saanen does was named Damfino. She was a black and white Saanen. When a friend asked, “How come the color?” she replied “Damfino” and that became the doe’s name. Mrs. Rock’s herd name was “Little Hill.” She was an avid writer and contributed articles to popular goat publications for many years.

The American Milk Goat Record Association recognized Rock Alpines as a breed in 1931. AGS (American Goat Society) recognized Rock Alpines. Rock Alpines flourished until World War II. None remain today but their excellent genetics have been absorbed into the American Alpine herd. British Alpines look like black and white Toggs. They also resemble the Grison breed of Switzerland. British Alpines were first bred in England after Sedgemere Faith, a Sundgau doe was exported to England from the Paris Zoo in 1903.

The British Alpine Section of the English Herd Book was opened in 1925. Allan Rogers imported British Alpines to America in the 1950s. In America, British Alpines are no longer registered separately, but as Sundgau in the French and American Alpine herdbooks. Sundgau is the name for the hilly geographic region near the French/German/Swiss border along the Rhine River.

 Swiss Alpine Goats Swiss Alpines, now called Oberhasli, have a warm red-brown coat with black trimmings along the muzzle, face, back, and belly. This coloring is known as chamoisee for Alpines. The Oberhasli come from the Brienzer region of Switzerland near Bern. The first Oberhasli were imported into the United States in the early 1900s. Three Swiss Alpines (called “Guggisberger” in a 1945 article in The Goat World) came with Fred Stucker’s 1906 importation and August Bonjean’s 1920 importation, but their descendants were not kept pure. Purebred Oberhasli descend from four does and one buck imported in 1936 by Dr. H.O. Pence of Kansas City, Missouri and identified as Swiss Alpines.

Three of the four does had been bred to different bucks while still in Switzerland. Purebred descendants were registered as Swiss Alpines, while the crossbreeds were registered as American Alpines. In 1941, Dr. Pence sold his Swiss Alpines in two divided groups. One of the groups was eventually lost in the 1950s while the other ended up in California, owned by Esther Oman. For the next 30 years she was almost the only breeder preserving the Swiss Alpine in the United States.

The pedigree of most purebred Oberhasli can be traced to Mrs. Oman’s herd. In 1968 Oberhasli breeders first asked ADGA for recognition as a distinct breed with a separate herdbook. In 1979 purebred Oberhasli were separated into their own herdbook by ADGA and recognized as a separate breed. In 1980 an American Oberhasli herdbook was created and these animals were pulled from the Alpine herdbook. No doubt Oberhasli genetics are still a part of the American Alpine gene pool.

American Alpine Goats American Alpine goats are an American original. This breed is the result of crossbreeding with French or American Alpines. This program has brought in genetics from several breeds and gives the American Alpine one of the largest genetic pools of any goat breed in America. The results have been dramatic with American Alpines setting production records, winning at shows and being a generally larger animal than the original French version. American Alpines represent the success of hybrid vigor.

 In 1906 Mrs. Edward Roby of Chicago worked to create an “American Goat” that would help to provide a safe tuberculosis-free milk supply for the children of Chicago. These were a cross of common American goats and imported Swiss genetics. Her crossbred goats could have been American Alpine goats had there been a registry at that time.

Today’s Alpine goats are a versatile utility animal. Great milkers for both those who want to learn how to raise goats in your backyard and commercial dairies, Alpines produce a high volume of milk. They have the ability to produce over a period of one to three years between freshenings or milk through. This produces valuable year round milk and reduces cost by not breeding every year. Alpine milk has a high cheese yield because of good butterfat and protein content. They produce well on pasture or in dry-lotted hay fed conditions. They are known for being exceptionally hardy, curious, and friendly.

 In 2007 ADGA registered a total of 5,480 Alpines making them the second most popular breed in America. (There were 9,606 Nubians and 4,201 LaManchas registered with ADGA in 2007.) This was down from 8,343 registered in 1990. Alpines continue be a breed of choice for many producers, from backyard hobbyists, to show enthusiasts, to commercial dairymen.

The all-time ADGA production record for an Alpine was set in 1982 by Donnie’s Pride Lois A177455P with 6,416 lbs. milk and 309/4.8 butterfat. This doe was bred by Donald Wallace, New York. In 2007 the ADGA Alpine milk production leader was Bethel MUR Rhapsody Ronda, owned and bred by Mark and Gwen Hostetler, Iowa. This doe produced 4,400 lbs. of milk in 297 days, with 102 lbs. butterfat.

While Alpine does make excellent dairy producers, bucks make good meat animals and will often gain weight as fast as the meat breeds. Alpine wethers also make excellent pack goats. They tend to be larger, stronger, and healthier than many other goat breeds. They train easily, bond with their keepers, and retain their guard dog-like instinct out on the trail. An experienced Alpine pack goat can be amazingly trail wise. He will remember a trail he has been on and can lead the pack through snow and fog. Alpine pack goats thrive in most climates and they tolerate heat better than Saanens and Toggs. The beauty of Alpine colors make them appealing to the pack goat buyer.

Originally published in the March/April 2008 issue of Dairy Goat Journal and regularly vetted for accuracy.

Historical Background of Alpine Goats was originally posted by All About Chickens

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Heidi Klum Height Weight Measurements

New Post has been published on http://hollywoodages.com/heidi-klum-height-weight-measurements/

Heidi Klum Height Weight Measurements

Heidi Klum Biography

Heidi Klum born June 1, 1973 is a German model, TV host, representative, style planner, TV maker, and periodic performer who turned out to be universally known for her appearances on the front of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. In 1999, she turned into the principal German model to wind up a Victoria’s Secret Angel. Taking after a fruitful displaying vocation, Klum turned into the host and a judge of Germany’s Next Topmodel and the truth show Project Runway which earned her an Emmy assignment in 2008 and a win in 2013 for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program (imparted to co-host Tim Gunn). She has functioned as a spokesmodel for Dannon and H&M, and has showed up in various advertisements for McDonald’s, Volkswagen and others. In 2009, Klum turned into Barbie’s official envoy on Barbie’s 50th commemoration. As an incidental performer, she had supporting parts in films including Blow Dry (2001), Ella Enchanted (2004), and showed up on The Devil Wears Prada (2006) and Perfect Stranger (2007). She has additionally showed up on TV indicates including Sex and the City, How I Met Your Mother, Desperate Housewives and Parks and Recreation. As of now, Klum is a judge on the NBC reality demonstrate America’s Got Talent. In May 2011, Forbes magazine evaluated Klum’s aggregate profit for that year as US$20 million. She is positioned second on Forbes’ rundown of the “World’s Top-Earning Models”, behind Gisele Bündchen. Forbes noticed that since closure her 13-year keep running as a Victoria’s Secret Angel, Klum has turned out to be to a greater extent a specialist than a model. In 2008, she turned into an American native while keeping up her local German citizenship. Heidi Klum Height Weight , Husband Name and Dating History Below.

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Heidi Klum Personal Info.

Full Name: Heidi Klum

Nick Name: The Body

Family: Günther Klum (Father) Erna (Mother) Michael Klum (Brother)

Education: Heidi Klum won “Model 92” demonstrating challenge and instantly marked with a displaying organization called Metropolitan Models New York. Yet, she finished her training first and subsequent to graduating, she picked demonstrating. Heidi Klum didn’t go any demonstrating school.

Date of Birth: 1 June, 1973

Birthplace: Bergisch Gladbach, North Rhine-Westphalia

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Religion: Christian

Ethnicity: White

Nationality: German

Profession: Screenwriter, TV Personality, Television producer, Presenter, Fashion Designer, Actress, Fashion Model, , Businessperson, Supermodel

Measurements: 37-27-37 in or 94-69-94 cm

Bra Size: 34C

Height: 5′ 9¼” (176 cm)

Weight: 137 lbs (62.1 kg)

Eye Color: Hazel

Hair Color: Dyed Blonde

Dress Size: 04

Shoe Size: 09

Boyfriend/Dating History:

Ric Pipino (1997-2002) – German Model Heidi Klum wedded hairdresser Ric Pipino in an upstate New York service. Their conjugal relationship went from September, 1997 to November, 2002.

Seal (2005-2012) – Seal Henry Olusegun Olumide Adeola Samuel or basically Seal wedded Heidi Klum in May, 2005 in a serene service in Costa Careyes, Mexico. Around then, Klum was pregnant with Flavio’s tyke, named as Leni Samuel (b. 4 May, 2004). Later, the couple had 3 organic kids – Henry Samuel (Son), Johan Samuel (Son), Lou Samuel (Daughter). Seal and Heidi were separated in January, 2012.

Jay Kay (2002) – Heidi was supposed to be with Jamiroquai (British corrosive jazz band framed in 1992) lead vocalist Jason Kay or Jay Kay. They both met on the arrangement of the band’s music video for “Affection Foolosophy”.

Anthony Kiedis (2002) – Red Hot Chili Peppers frontman Anthony was with supermodel Heidi for around 2 months from November, 2002 to December, 2002. They came closer as a consequence of Klum’s part from her spouse Ric Pipino.

Flavio Briatore (2003) – Italian representative Briatore (23 years more seasoned than Klum) and afterward supermodel Heidi were as one from March, 2003 till November, 2003. They split as Briatore kissed adornments beneficiary Fiona Swarovski. Around then, Klum was additionally pregnant with Flavio’s kid.

Seal (2004-2005) – Heidi and Klum dated Musician Seal from February, 2004 to May, 2005. Later in 2005, Seal proposed Klum by flying her to a remote icy mass in British Columbia. She arrived there from helicopter and afterward, took after a trail of flower petals to an extraordinarily fabricated igloo, where a guitar, a bear skin carpet and a container of champagne were kept. Seal sang a melody for Heidi Klum and she acknowledged his proposition.

Martin Kirsten (2012-2014) – Heidi began dating her bodyguard, Martin Kirsten in August 2012. Martin, a South African kept dating her until January 2014.

Vito Schnabel (2014-Present) – Since February 2014, the German model is dating a much more youthful New York based free custodian and workmanship merchant, Vito Schnabel.

Distinctive Features: Great height, Curvaceous figure

Known For: Victoria’s Secret Angel, The Money Girls (Ranked # 2)

Active Year: 19992 (present)

Favorite Food: Her mother’s Sauerkraut Soup, McDonalds

Favorite Drink: Coke

Favorite Designers: Thomas Wilde, Roberto Cavalli, Michael Kors, Donna Karan, Oscar de la Renta and Galliano Favorite Subjects in High School: Mathematics and Drawing

Favorite Color: Green

Favorite Clothing Chain: The BabyGap

Favorite Song of Seal: Album September Commitment’s song “Silence”

Favorite Politician: Michelle Obama

Favorite Reality Show Host: Tom Bergeron

Official Twitter: Twitter Account

Official Facebook: FB Account

Heidi Klum Filmography:

Filmography

Year Film 1998 54 1999 Spin City 2000 Cursed 2001 Blow Dry Sex and the City Zoolander 2002 Malcolm in the Middle Yes, Dear 2003 Blue Collar Comedy Tour James Bond 007: Everything or Nothing (Video Game) CSI: Miami 2004 Ella Enchanted The Life and Death of Peter Sellers 2004–present Project Runway 2006 The Devil Wears Prada 2006–present Germany’s Next Topmodel 2007 Perfect Stranger 2008 How I Met Your Mother 2009–10 I Get That a Lot 2010 Desperate Housewives 2011 Hoodwinked Too! Hood vs. Evil Seriously Funny Kids 2013 Parks and Recreation 2013–present America’s Got Talent 2012–present Littlest Pet Shop

See Also: Jessica Alba Body Measurements

Search Terms Heidi Klum Height Weight:

Heidi Klum Age. Heidi Klum And Husband. Heidi Klum And Family. Heidi Klum Bio. Heidi Klum Collection. Heidi Klum Daughter. Heidi Klum Eyes. Heidi Klum Height Weight. Heidi Klum Early Career. Heidi Klum Family. Heidi Klum Facebook. Heidi Klum Fashion. Heidi Klum Fashion Show. Heidi Klum Father. Heidi Klum Husband. Heidi Klum Hair. Heidi Klum Haircut. Heidi Klum Model. Heidi Klum Height Weight. Heidi Klum Movies. Heidi Klum Married. Heidi Klum Marriage. Heidi Klum Mom. Heidi Klum Nationality. Heidi Klum Parents. Heidi Klum Partner. Heidi Klum Relationships. Heidi Klum Height Weight. Heidi Klum Show. Heidi Klum Spouse. Heidi Klum Son. Heidi Klum Style. Heidi Klum Twitter. Heidi Klum Tv Show. Heidi Klum Wiki. Heidi Klum Wedding. Heidi Klum Height Weight. Heidi Klum Wallpaper. Heidi Klum Zodiac.

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Alpine Goat Breed Spotlight

The Alpine goat is also referred to as the French Alpine and registration papers for this dairy goat use both designations and they are synonymous. The Alpine goat is a medium- to large-size animal, alertly graceful, and the only breed with upright ears that offers all colors and combinations of colors giving them distinction and individuality.

Alpine goats are hardy, adaptable animals that thrive in any climate while maintaining good health and excellent production. The hair is medium to short. The face is straight. A Roman nose, Toggenburg color and markings, or all-white is discriminated against.

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Alpine Colors

Cou Blanc (coo blanc) – literally “white neck” white front quarters and black hindquarters with black or gray markings on the head. Cou Clair (coo clair) – literally “clear neck” front quarters are tan, saffron, off-white, or shading to gray with black hindquarters. Cou Noir (coo nwah) – literally “black neck” black front quarters and white hindquarters. Sundgau (sundgow) – black with white markings such as underbody, facial stripes, etc. Pied – spotted or mottled. Chamoisee (shamwahzay) – brown or bay characteristic markings are black face, dorsal stripe, feet and legs, and sometimes a martingale running over the withers and down to the chest. Spelling for male is chamoise. Two-tone Chamoisee – light front quarters with brown or gray hindquarters. This is not a cou blanc or cou clair as these terms are reserved for animals with black hindquarters. Broken Chamoisee – a solid chamoisee broken with another color by being banded or splashed, etc. Any variation in the above patterns broken with white should be described as a broken pattern such as a broken cou blanc.

Alpine Goat Breed History

By Paul Hamby – Goats are believed to be the first animal domesticated by man. Bones of goats have been found in caves along with evidence of human inhabitation of those caves. One of the goat remains had evidence of a healed broken leg that could have only healed under the protection of human. Scientists determined she would have died in the wild without human intervention. Her remains have been carbon dated to 12,000-15,000 years ago. These goats were the Persian (middle eastern) goat “Pashang.” Some Pashang migrated to the Alps Mountains. It is likely that some of them went to the Alps along with their human companions and other wild herds moved there.

Our present day Alpines descend from the Pashang goat, also known as the Bezoar goat. Alpines are found throughout the Alps Mountains, their namesake, in Europe. Over thousands of years, natural selection developed the Alpine breed with superior agility to survive on steep mountain slopes. They developed a perfect sense of balance. The breed maintained its ability to survive in arid regions. European goat herders started selective breeding for milk production and favorite colors.

The Alpines adaptability, sense of balance, and personality made them good candidates for voyages. Early voyages were made feasible by taking along goats for milk and meat. The early sea captains often left a pair of goats on islands along their shipping routes. On return voyages, they could stop and catch a meal or a fresh source of milk. Today Alpines can be found thriving in nearly every climate and the goat is the most common farm animal found around the world.

When the first settlers came to America, they brought along their milk goats. Captain John Smith and Lord Delaware brought goats here. A 1630 census of Jamestown lists goats as one of their most valuable assets. Swiss breeds along with Spanish and Austrian goats were brought to America from 1590s to 1700. The Austrian and Spanish breeds were similar to the Swiss breeds though they tended to be smaller. Cross breeding produced a common American goat. In 1915 a wild Alpine-type goat was taken from the Guadeloupe islands. She produced 1,600 lbs. of milk in 310 days.

A turning point for goats in America came in 1904. Carl Hagenbeck imported two Schwarzwald Alpine does from the Black Forest of Germany. They were displayed at the World’s Fair in St. Louis at Hagenbeck’s Wild Animal Paradise. After the fair they were sold and shipped to Maryland. Their history is unknown. Frenchman Joseph Crepin and Oscar Dufresne of Canada, imported a group of Alpines to Canada and California. The American Milk Goat Record Association (now known as the American Dairy Goat Association—ADGA) was started in 1904. That same year the official spelling of “milch” changed to “milk” in the USA.

From 1904 to 1922, 160 Saanens were imported to the United States. From 1893 to 1941, 190 Toggenburgs were imported. Common American goats were then crossed with the superior Toggenburg goats and Saanen goats. The breeding-up program was very successful. In 1921, Irmagarde Richards speculated that the success of the breeding-up program was due to common American goats having a similar European ancestry to the Purebred Swiss goats. Since the resulting animals often didn’t match the color requirements for Saanens and Toggenburgs, the animals became grade Alpines.

French Alpines

In 1922, Dr. Charles P. Delangle with the aid of Mrs. Mary E. Rock, her brother Dr. Charles O. Fairbanks, Frenchman Joseph Crepin (author of La Chevre in 1918), and others imported the first documented group of French Alpines: 18 does and three bucks. These goats came from France where the Alpine is the most popular breed. The French had bred their version of the Alpine to a consistent size and very productive animal. All purebred Alpines in the United States descend from this importation. One of the imported does, owned by Mary Rock, lived until December 1933.

In 1942 Corl Leach, longtime editor of the Dairy Goat Journal describes French Alpines: “Color varies greatly and ranges from pure white through various shades and tones of fawn, gray, piebald, and brown to black.” One of the great things about raising Alpines is the anticipation of the color markings of the new kids. There was not a single doe of the cou blanc variety in the 1922 importation.

In France there was no breed recognized separately and distinctly, as “French Alpine.” Dr. DeLangle considered them as of a general “Alpine race.” French Alpine is an American name. In France today Alpines are called “Alpine polychrome” meaning of many colors. Dr. Delangle’s herd name was “Alpine Goat Dairy” but it was short lived. He was in poor health and had conflicts with a number of goat breeders including the goat association Board of Directors. On August 20, 1923 he was expelled from the American Milk Goat Record Association. He sold and gave away his herd shortly after the importation and apparently left the world of goats.

Rock Alpines

The Rock Alpine goat is created by crossbreeding goats of the 1904 and 1922 importations. In 1904, through Frenchman Joseph Crepin, an importation of Alpines including Saanens and Toggs was brought to Canada. Mary E. Rock of California purchased some of these because of the illness of her little daughter. One doe from the 1904 importation was a cou blanc named Molly Crepin. She is the only imported cou blanc doe on record. She then acquired French Alpines from the 1922 importation. Rock Alpines were the result of breeding these animals together without any other outside genetics.

Rock Alpines were the finest of their time and regularly won at shows and milking competitions. The Saanens used were either Sables or color carriers. One of her Saanen does was named Damfino. She was a black and white Saanen. When a friend asked, “How come the color?” she replied “Damfino” and that became the doe’s name. Mrs. Rock’s herd name was “Little Hill.” She was an avid writer and contributed articles to popular goat publications for many years.

The American Milk Goat Record Association recognized the Rock Alpine goat as a breed in 1931. AGS (American Goat Society) recognized Rock Alpines. Rock Alpines flourished until World War II. None remain today but their excellent genetics have been absorbed into the American Alpine herd.

British Alpines look like black and white Toggs. They also resemble the Grison breed of Switzerland. British Alpines were first bred in England after Sedgemere Faith, a Sundgau doe was exported to England from the Paris Zoo in 1903. The British Alpine Section of the English Herd Book was opened in 1925. Allan Rogers imported British Alpines to America in the 1950s. In America, British Alpines are no longer registered separately, but as Sundgau in the French and American Alpine herdbooks. Sundgau is the name for the hilly geographic region near the French/German/Swiss border along the Rhine River.

Swiss Alpines

Swiss Alpines, now called Oberhasli, have a warm red-brown coat with black trimmings along the muzzle, face, back, and belly. This coloring is known as chamoisee for Alpines. The Oberhasli come from the Brienzer region of Switzerland near Bern. The first Oberhasli were imported into the United States in the early 1900s. Three Swiss Alpines (called “Guggisberger” in a 1945 article in The Goat World) came with Fred Stucker’s 1906 importation and August Bonjean’s 1920 importation, but their descendants were not kept pure.

Purebred Oberhasli descend from four does and one buck imported in 1936 by Dr. H.O. Pence of Kansas City, Missouri and identified as Swiss Alpines. Three of the four does had been bred to different bucks while still in Switzerland. Purebred descendants were registered as Swiss Alpines, while the crossbreeds were registered as American Alpines.

In 1941, Dr. Pence sold his Swiss Alpines in two divided groups. One of the groups was eventually lost in the 1950s while the other ended up in California, owned by Esther Oman. For the next 30 years she was almost the only breeder preserving the Swiss Alpine in the United States. The pedigree of most purebred Oberhasli can be traced to Mrs. Oman’s herd.

In 1968 Oberhasli breeders first asked ADGA for recognition as a distinct breed with a separate herdbook. In 1979 purebred Oberhasli were separated into their own herdbook by ADGA and recognized as a separate breed. In 1980 an American Oberhasli herdbook was created and these animals were pulled from the Alpine herdbook. No doubt Oberhasli genetics are still a part of the American Alpine gene pool.

American Alpines

American Alpines are an American original. This breed is the result of crossbreeding with French or American Alpines. This program has brought in genetics from several breeds and gives the American Alpine one of the largest genetic pools of any goat breed in America. The results have been dramatic with American Alpines setting production records, winning at shows and being a generally larger animal than the original French version. American Alpines represent the success of hybrid vigor.

In 1906 Mrs. Edward Roby of Chicago worked to create an “American Goat” that would help to provide a safe tuberculosis-free milk supply for the children of Chicago. These were a cross of common American goats and imported Swiss genetics. Her crossbred goats could have been American Alpines had there been a registry at that time.

Today’s Alpine goat is a versatile utility animal. Great milkers for both home and commercial dairies, Alpines produce a high volume of milk. They have the ability to produce over a period of one to three years between freshenings or milk through. This produces valuable year-round milk and reduces cost by not breeding every year. Alpine milk has a high cheese yield because of good butterfat and protein content. They produce well on pasture or in dry-lotted hay fed conditions. They are known for being exceptionally hardy, curious, and friendly.

In 2007 ADGA registered a total of 5,480 Alpines making them the second most popular breed in America. (There were 9,606 Nubians and 4,201 LaManchas registered with ADGA in 2007.) This was down from 8,343 registered in 1990, but Alpines continue be a breed of choice for many producers, from backyard hobbyists, to show enthusiasts, to commercial dairymen. The all time ADGA production record for an Alpine was set in 1982 by Donnie’s Pride Lois A177455P with 6,416 milk and 309/4.8 butterfat. This doe was bred by Donald Wallace, New York. In 2007 the ADGA Alpine milk production leader was Bethel MUR Rhapsody Ronda, owned and bred by Mark and Gwen Hostetler, Iowa. This doe produced 4,400 lbs. of milk in 297 days, with 102 lbs. butterfat.

While an Alpine goat does make an excellent dairy producer, bucks make good for anyone interested in meat goat farming, and they and will often gain weight as fast as the meat breeds. Alpine wethers also make excellent pack goats. They tend to be larger, stronger, and healthier than many other goat breeds for milk. They train easily, bond with their keepers, and retain their guard dog like instinct out on the trail. An experienced Alpine Pack Goat can be amazing trail-wise. He will remember a trail he has been on and can lead the pack through snow and fog. Alpine Pack Goats thrive in most climates and they tolerate heat better than Saanens and Toggs. The beauty of Alpine goat colors make them appealing to the pack goat buyer.

From the Author: Information for this article was excerpted from my book in progress “The History of Goats in America.”

Originally published in 2013 and regularly vetted for accuracy.

Alpine Goat Breed Spotlight was originally posted by All About Chickens

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Alpine Goat Breed Spotlight

The Alpine goat is also referred to as the French Alpine and registration papers for this dairy goat use both designations and they are synonymous. The Alpine goat is a medium- to large-size animal, alertly graceful, and the only breed with upright ears that offers all colors and combinations of colors giving them distinction and individuality.

Alpine goats are hardy, adaptable animals that thrive in any climate while maintaining good health and excellent production. The hair is medium to short. The face is straight. A Roman nose, Toggenburg color and markings, or all-white is discriminated against.

Dairy Goats are Delightful!

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Alpine Colors

Cou Blanc (coo blanc) – literally “white neck” white front quarters and black hindquarters with black or gray markings on the head. Cou Clair (coo clair) – literally “clear neck” front quarters are tan, saffron, off-white, or shading to gray with black hindquarters. Cou Noir (coo nwah) – literally “black neck” black front quarters and white hindquarters. Sundgau (sundgow) – black with white markings such as underbody, facial stripes, etc. Pied – spotted or mottled. Chamoisee (shamwahzay) – brown or bay characteristic markings are black face, dorsal stripe, feet and legs, and sometimes a martingale running over the withers and down to the chest. Spelling for male is chamoise. Two-tone Chamoisee – light front quarters with brown or gray hindquarters. This is not a cou blanc or cou clair as these terms are reserved for animals with black hindquarters. Broken Chamoisee – a solid chamoisee broken with another color by being banded or splashed, etc. Any variation in the above patterns broken with white should be described as a broken pattern such as a broken cou blanc.

Alpine Goat Breed History

By Paul Hamby – Goats are believed to be the first animal domesticated by man. Bones of goats have been found in caves along with evidence of human inhabitation of those caves. One of the goat remains had evidence of a healed broken leg that could have only healed under the protection of human. Scientists determined she would have died in the wild without human intervention. Her remains have been carbon dated to 12,000-15,000 years ago. These goats were the Persian (middle eastern) goat “Pashang.” Some Pashang migrated to the Alps Mountains. It is likely that some of them went to the Alps along with their human companions and other wild herds moved there.

Our present day Alpines descend from the Pashang goat, also known as the Bezoar goat. Alpines are found throughout the Alps Mountains, their namesake, in Europe. Over thousands of years, natural selection developed the Alpine breed with superior agility to survive on steep mountain slopes. They developed a perfect sense of balance. The breed maintained its ability to survive in arid regions. European goat herders started selective breeding for milk production and favorite colors.

The Alpines adaptability, sense of balance, and personality made them good candidates for voyages. Early voyages were made feasible by taking along goats for milk and meat. The early sea captains often left a pair of goats on islands along their shipping routes. On return voyages, they could stop and catch a meal or a fresh source of milk. Today Alpines can be found thriving in nearly every climate and the goat is the most common farm animal found around the world.

When the first settlers came to America, they brought along their milk goats. Captain John Smith and Lord Delaware brought goats here. A 1630 census of Jamestown lists goats as one of their most valuable assets. Swiss breeds along with Spanish and Austrian goats were brought to America from 1590s to 1700. The Austrian and Spanish breeds were similar to the Swiss breeds though they tended to be smaller. Cross breeding produced a common American goat. In 1915 a wild Alpine-type goat was taken from the Guadeloupe islands. She produced 1,600 lbs. of milk in 310 days.

A turning point for goats in America came in 1904. Carl Hagenbeck imported two Schwarzwald Alpine does from the Black Forest of Germany. They were displayed at the World’s Fair in St. Louis at Hagenbeck’s Wild Animal Paradise. After the fair they were sold and shipped to Maryland. Their history is unknown. Frenchman Joseph Crepin and Oscar Dufresne of Canada, imported a group of Alpines to Canada and California. The American Milk Goat Record Association (now known as the American Dairy Goat Association—ADGA) was started in 1904. That same year the official spelling of “milch” changed to “milk” in the USA.

From 1904 to 1922, 160 Saanens were imported to the United States. From 1893 to 1941, 190 Toggenburgs were imported. Common American goats were then crossed with the superior Toggenburg goats and Saanen goats. The breeding-up program was very successful. In 1921, Irmagarde Richards speculated that the success of the breeding-up program was due to common American goats having a similar European ancestry to the Purebred Swiss goats. Since the resulting animals often didn’t match the color requirements for Saanens and Toggenburgs, the animals became grade Alpines.

French Alpines

In 1922, Dr. Charles P. Delangle with the aid of Mrs. Mary E. Rock, her brother Dr. Charles O. Fairbanks, Frenchman Joseph Crepin (author of La Chevre in 1918), and others imported the first documented group of French Alpines: 18 does and three bucks. These goats came from France where the Alpine is the most popular breed. The French had bred their version of the Alpine to a consistent size and very productive animal. All purebred Alpines in the United States descend from this importation. One of the imported does, owned by Mary Rock, lived until December 1933.

In 1942 Corl Leach, longtime editor of the Dairy Goat Journal describes French Alpines: “Color varies greatly and ranges from pure white through various shades and tones of fawn, gray, piebald, and brown to black.” One of the great things about raising Alpines is the anticipation of the color markings of the new kids. There was not a single doe of the cou blanc variety in the 1922 importation.

In France there was no breed recognized separately and distinctly, as “French Alpine.” Dr. DeLangle considered them as of a general “Alpine race.” French Alpine is an American name. In France today Alpines are called “Alpine polychrome” meaning of many colors. Dr. Delangle’s herd name was “Alpine Goat Dairy” but it was short lived. He was in poor health and had conflicts with a number of goat breeders including the goat association Board of Directors. On August 20, 1923 he was expelled from the American Milk Goat Record Association. He sold and gave away his herd shortly after the importation and apparently left the world of goats.

Rock Alpines

The Rock Alpine goat is created by crossbreeding goats of the 1904 and 1922 importations. In 1904, through Frenchman Joseph Crepin, an importation of Alpines including Saanens and Toggs was brought to Canada. Mary E. Rock of California purchased some of these because of the illness of her little daughter. One doe from the 1904 importation was a cou blanc named Molly Crepin. She is the only imported cou blanc doe on record. She then acquired French Alpines from the 1922 importation. Rock Alpines were the result of breeding these animals together without any other outside genetics.

Rock Alpines were the finest of their time and regularly won at shows and milking competitions. The Saanens used were either Sables or color carriers. One of her Saanen does was named Damfino. She was a black and white Saanen. When a friend asked, “How come the color?” she replied “Damfino” and that became the doe’s name. Mrs. Rock’s herd name was “Little Hill.” She was an avid writer and contributed articles to popular goat publications for many years.

The American Milk Goat Record Association recognized the Rock Alpine goat as a breed in 1931. AGS (American Goat Society) recognized Rock Alpines. Rock Alpines flourished until World War II. None remain today but their excellent genetics have been absorbed into the American Alpine herd.

British Alpines look like black and white Toggs. They also resemble the Grison breed of Switzerland. British Alpines were first bred in England after Sedgemere Faith, a Sundgau doe was exported to England from the Paris Zoo in 1903. The British Alpine Section of the English Herd Book was opened in 1925. Allan Rogers imported British Alpines to America in the 1950s. In America, British Alpines are no longer registered separately, but as Sundgau in the French and American Alpine herdbooks. Sundgau is the name for the hilly geographic region near the French/German/Swiss border along the Rhine River.

Swiss Alpines

Swiss Alpines, now called Oberhasli, have a warm red-brown coat with black trimmings along the muzzle, face, back, and belly. This coloring is known as chamoisee for Alpines. The Oberhasli come from the Brienzer region of Switzerland near Bern. The first Oberhasli were imported into the United States in the early 1900s. Three Swiss Alpines (called “Guggisberger” in a 1945 article in The Goat World) came with Fred Stucker’s 1906 importation and August Bonjean’s 1920 importation, but their descendants were not kept pure.

Purebred Oberhasli descend from four does and one buck imported in 1936 by Dr. H.O. Pence of Kansas City, Missouri and identified as Swiss Alpines. Three of the four does had been bred to different bucks while still in Switzerland. Purebred descendants were registered as Swiss Alpines, while the crossbreeds were registered as American Alpines.

In 1941, Dr. Pence sold his Swiss Alpines in two divided groups. One of the groups was eventually lost in the 1950s while the other ended up in California, owned by Esther Oman. For the next 30 years she was almost the only breeder preserving the Swiss Alpine in the United States. The pedigree of most purebred Oberhasli can be traced to Mrs. Oman’s herd.

In 1968 Oberhasli breeders first asked ADGA for recognition as a distinct breed with a separate herdbook. In 1979 purebred Oberhasli were separated into their own herdbook by ADGA and recognized as a separate breed. In 1980 an American Oberhasli herdbook was created and these animals were pulled from the Alpine herdbook. No doubt Oberhasli genetics are still a part of the American Alpine gene pool.

American Alpines

American Alpines are an American original. This breed is the result of crossbreeding with French or American Alpines. This program has brought in genetics from several breeds and gives the American Alpine one of the largest genetic pools of any goat breed in America. The results have been dramatic with American Alpines setting production records, winning at shows and being a generally larger animal than the original French version. American Alpines represent the success of hybrid vigor.

In 1906 Mrs. Edward Roby of Chicago worked to create an “American Goat” that would help to provide a safe tuberculosis-free milk supply for the children of Chicago. These were a cross of common American goats and imported Swiss genetics. Her crossbred goats could have been American Alpines had there been a registry at that time.

Today’s Alpine goat is a versatile utility animal. Great milkers for both home and commercial dairies, Alpines produce a high volume of milk. They have the ability to produce over a period of one to three years between freshenings or milk through. This produces valuable year-round milk and reduces cost by not breeding every year. Alpine milk has a high cheese yield because of good butterfat and protein content. They produce well on pasture or in dry-lotted hay fed conditions. They are known for being exceptionally hardy, curious, and friendly.

In 2007 ADGA registered a total of 5,480 Alpines making them the second most popular breed in America. (There were 9,606 Nubians and 4,201 LaManchas registered with ADGA in 2007.) This was down from 8,343 registered in 1990, but Alpines continue be a breed of choice for many producers, from backyard hobbyists, to show enthusiasts, to commercial dairymen. The all time ADGA production record for an Alpine was set in 1982 by Donnie’s Pride Lois A177455P with 6,416 milk and 309/4.8 butterfat. This doe was bred by Donald Wallace, New York. In 2007 the ADGA Alpine milk production leader was Bethel MUR Rhapsody Ronda, owned and bred by Mark and Gwen Hostetler, Iowa. This doe produced 4,400 lbs. of milk in 297 days, with 102 lbs. butterfat.

While an Alpine goat does make an excellent dairy producer, bucks make good for anyone interested in meat goat farming, and they and will often gain weight as fast as the meat breeds. Alpine wethers also make excellent pack goats. They tend to be larger, stronger, and healthier than many other goat breeds for milk. They train easily, bond with their keepers, and retain their guard dog like instinct out on the trail. An experienced Alpine Pack Goat can be amazing trail-wise. He will remember a trail he has been on and can lead the pack through snow and fog. Alpine Pack Goats thrive in most climates and they tolerate heat better than Saanens and Toggs. The beauty of Alpine goat colors make them appealing to the pack goat buyer.

From the Author: Information for this article was excerpted from my book in progress “The History of Goats in America.”

Originally published in 2013 and regularly vetted for accuracy.

Alpine Goat Breed Spotlight was originally posted by All About Chickens