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Indian Treasure Trove Act and Key Supreme Court Rulings
India's legal landscape has evolved significantly over the years, shaped by landmark acts and court decisions. Among the many legislations that hold historical significance is the indian treasure trove act 1878, a colonial-era law that still governs the discovery of hidden treasures in India. Alongside this, latest Supreme Court judgments continue to redefine how justice is interpreted in contemporary times. In this article, we will delve into the relevance of the Indian Treasure Trove Act and the role of recent Supreme Court rulings in shaping legal discourse.
The History and Relevance of the indian treasure trove act 1878 The indian treasure trove act 1878 was enacted during British rule to regulate the discovery of buried or hidden treasures. Under this act, any individual who discovers valuable items, such as coins or artifacts, is required to report the finding to local authorities. The law was designed to ensure the state had control over such discoveries, protecting cultural heritage while deterring illegal claims or misuse.
Though the act dates back to the 19th century, its provisions are still in force today. However, with advancements in archaeology and growing concerns over cultural preservation, questions arise about whether the act adequately serves modern-day requirements. Legal scholars and policymakers have debated whether amendments are needed to make the act more aligned with current realities.
Modern-Day Applications of the Indian Treasure Trove Act In today’s context, the indian treasure trove act 1878 finds itself at the intersection of archaeology, legal governance, and cultural preservation. Whenever historical treasures are unearthed, this act governs the legal framework for ownership and preservation. For instance, discoveries of ancient artifacts during construction projects or archaeological excavations often invoke the act's provisions.
While the law provides clarity on the division of rights between the state and discoverers, critics argue that it lacks sufficient safeguards to prevent exploitation. Many experts call for its overhaul to address gaps in enforcement, especially given the rise in illegal artifact trading.
The Role of Latest Supreme Court Judgments in Legal Evolution India's legal system is dynamic, with the Supreme Court playing a crucial role in interpreting and adapting laws to contemporary needs. The latest Supreme Court judgments frequently address issues related to outdated laws, including colonial-era legislations like the Indian Treasure Trove Act.
Recent cases have highlighted the judiciary's efforts to strike a balance between upholding legal provisions and ensuring justice aligns with evolving societal values. In landmark judgments, the Supreme Court has emphasized the importance of protecting cultural heritage while ensuring transparency and fairness in how laws are implemented.
For example, some judgments have drawn attention to the misuse of colonial-era laws and called for reforms to align them with constitutional values. These rulings underline the judiciary's proactive approach in modernizing India's legal framework.
The Intersection of Law, History, and Public Interest The Indian Treasure Trove Act, 1878 serves as a fascinating example of how historical laws continue to impact modern society. While its original intent was to regulate the discovery of hidden treasures, the act now also intersects with broader debates about heritage preservation, illegal trading, and public interest.
Similarly, the latest Supreme Court judgments often touch upon matters of public significance, addressing the gap between outdated laws and current realities. Together, these legal frameworks and rulings provide a comprehensive understanding of how India balances its historical legacy with the need for progress.
Conclusion The Indian Treasure Trove Act, 1878 remains a vital piece of legislation, despite its colonial origins. However, its effectiveness in addressing contemporary challenges depends on how it is interpreted and possibly amended to reflect present-day concerns. Simultaneously, the latest Supreme Court judgments continue to play a transformative role in shaping India's legal framework. By reexamining laws like the Treasure Trove Act and delivering landmark rulings, the judiciary upholds justice while preserving the nation's rich heritage.
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Ancient Indian Coins of Foreign Rulers

Introduction:
Ancient India is a land rich in history, culture, and diversity. Throughout the centuries, it witnessed the rise and fall of various empires, attracting foreign rulers from distant lands. One of the intriguing aspects of this period is the numismatic heritage left behind by these foreign powers. Coins minted by these rulers provide valuable insights into their reigns, their interactions with Indian society, and the fascinating blend of local and foreign influences. In this blog, we will embark on a numismatic journey, exploring the ancient Indian coins of foreign rulers and unraveling the stories they tell.
In ancient times, various foreign empires, such as the Romans, Portuguese, British Empire also ruled over India. During the Roman rule, they introduced their own coins for trade and commerce, known as Roman Empire coins. We possess a collection of currencies from different foreign kingdoms of Portuguese, British, Roman, and others. We have rare currencies and ancient coins such as the Silver Denarius in their period.
1.The Indo-Greeks: The Indo-Greeks were among the first foreign powers to establish their presence in India. Their coins, issued during the 2nd century BCE, serve as a testament to the cultural fusion that occurred during this period. We will delve into the designs, inscriptions, and artistic influences that characterize these coins, shedding light on the cross-cultural interactions between the Greeks and the Indians.
2.The Kushanas: The Kushan Empire, originating from Central Asia, had a significant impact on ancient Indian history. Their coins, minted from the 1st to the 3rd century CE, showcase a blend of Indian, Greek, and Persian artistic elements. We will examine the unique features of Kushana coins, such as the portrayal of rulers, deities, and the introduction of the Brahmi script.
3.The Indo-Scythians: The Indo-Scythians, also known as the Sakas, ruled parts of North India during the 1st century BCE to the 1st century CE. Their coins display a distinct Scythian influence while incorporating Indian motifs and deities. We will explore the fascinating iconography and historical context behind these coins, highlighting the cultural amalgamation that occurred under the Indo-Scythian rule.
4.The Gupta Empire: The Gupta Empire is often regarded as the Golden Age of ancient India. The Gupta coins, minted between the 4th and 6th centuries CE, exemplify the pinnacle of artistic and metallurgical achievements. We will analyze the intricate Gupta coinage, which features Gupta rulers, mythological figures, and elaborate inscriptions, and discuss its significance in the context of Gupta society and culture.
5.The Islamic Dynasties: With the advent of Islamic rule in India, a new chapter unfolded in numismatic history. Coins issued by various Islamic dynasties, such as the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals, showcased a unique blend of Islamic calligraphy, Persian influences, and Indian artistic elements. We will explore the evolution of Islamic coinage in India and its role in shaping the socio-cultural landscape.
Importance of Ancient Indian Coins of Foreign Rulers:
1.Historical Documentation: Ancient coins provide valuable historical documentation about foreign rulers who held sway over different parts of Ancient India. These coins bear inscriptions, symbols, and portraits that help in identifying and understanding the rulers, their dynasties, and their political influence in the region.
2.Cultural Exchange: Coins issued by foreign rulers reflect the cultural exchange and interaction between Ancient India and other civilizations. They often incorporate elements of both the ruling civilization and the local Indian traditions, showcasing a fusion of artistic styles, religious symbolism, and linguistic influences.
3.Trade and Commerce: Coins played a vital role in facilitating trade and commerce in Ancient India. Foreign rulers minted their coins to assert their authority and facilitate economic transactions. The presence of foreign coins in Ancient India suggests the existence of trade networks and economic ties with other regions.
4.Economic History: The study of ancient coins provides insights into the economic history of Ancient India. The types of metals used, their purity, and the denominations reflect the prevailing economic systems, monetary policies, and the economic prosperity of the time.
5.Numismatic Research: Ancient coins serve as essential artifacts for numismatic research, which involves the study of coins. Scholars and collectors analyze these coins to determine their minting techniques, metal compositions, and design evolution over time. Such research contributes to a deeper understanding of ancient technology, craftsmanship, and artistic traditions.
6.Preservation of Heritage: Ancient coins are invaluable archaeological artifacts that preserve the heritage of Ancient India. By studying and preserving these coins, we can gain insights into the social, political, and economic structures of ancient societies, helping us reconstruct and appreciate our historical roots.
7.Educational and Cultural Value: Ancient coins have educational and cultural value. They provide a tangible connection to the past, allowing individuals to learn about and appreciate the history, art, and cultural diversity of Ancient India.
Advantages of Ancient India Coins of Foreign Rulers:
1.Historical Significance: Coins issued by foreign rulers in Ancient India provide valuable historical evidence about the political, cultural, and economic interactions between India and other regions. They offer insights into the periods of foreign rule and their impact on the Indian subcontinent.
2.Numismatic Value: Ancient coins, especially those from foreign rulers, have high numismatic value. Collectors and enthusiasts often seek out these coins for their rarity, craftsmanship, and historical significance. They can be valuable additions to coin collections and can appreciate in value over time.
3.Cultural Exchange: Coins from foreign rulers reflect the influence of different cultures and civilizations on Ancient India. They often feature unique designs, symbols, and inscriptions that represent the artistic traditions and ideologies of the ruling empire. They provide a glimpse into the diverse cultural heritage of the time.
4.Trade and Economic Relations: Coins issued by foreign rulers can offer insights into the trade and economic relations between Ancient India and other regions. They can provide information about the circulation of different currencies, the prevalence of specific trade routes, and the economic policies of foreign powers.
Disadvantages of Ancient India Coins of Foreign Rulers:
1.Loss of Sovereignty: Coins issued by foreign rulers signify a period of foreign domination and loss of political autonomy for Ancient India. They remind us of the subjugation and control exerted by outside powers, which can be a sensitive topic for some individuals or communities.
2.Fragmented History: Ancient coins, including those of foreign rulers, often present a fragmented historical narrative. They provide glimpses into specific rulers or periods but may not offer a comprehensive understanding of the broader historical context or the experiences of the local population.
3.Limited Information: While coins can provide valuable historical information, their inscriptions and designs may not always reveal detailed or complete information about the ruler, the ruling empire, or the events of the time. Some coins may lack inscriptions altogether, making their interpretation challenging.
4.Lack of Preservation: Ancient coins face the risk of damage, deterioration, and loss over time. Due to their age and historical significance, it can be difficult to preserve and protect these coins adequately. This poses a challenge for historians, archaeologists, and collectors interested in studying or appreciating them.
Conclusion:
Ancient Indian coins of foreign rulers provide a glimpse into the multicultural tapestry of India's past. From the Indo-Greeks to the Islamic dynasties, each coinage reflects the dynamic interplay between different civilizations, religions, and artistic traditions. By studying these numismatic artifacts, we gain a deeper understanding of the historical, cultural, and economic interactions that shaped ancient India.
#Roman Empire Coins#Silver Denarius Coins#Rare Roman Currency Coins.Silver Denarius Coins#Rare Roman Currency Coins#Ancient Roman Coins#Ancient Roman Denarius Coins#Denarius Coins#Roman Currency Coins.
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The Fascinating Origin and History of Ancient India Coins
The coins of ancient India offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. From the earliest punch-marked coins to the intricate gold coins of the Gupta Dynasty, each coin tells a unique story of the rulers and traditions of their time.
In this blog post, we will dive into the fascinating origin and history of ancient India coins, and explore the evolution of currency and trade practices in the region.
1. The Earliest Coins of Ancient India The earliest coins of ancient India were punch-marked coins, which were used for trade and exchange in the Janapadas period. These coins were made of silver and copper and featured various symbols and marks, which were punched onto the coin's surface.
2. The Introduction of Standardized Coins in the Mauryan Empire
The Mauryan Empire, which ruled India from 322 BCE to 185 BCE, is credited with the introduction of the first standardized coins in ancient India. The silver karshapana coins featured a punch-marked design and were used as a form of currency. These coins were widely circulated and were an important factor in the expansion of the Mauryan Empire.
3. The Beauty and Majesty of Gupta Dynasty Coins
The Gupta Dynasty, which ruled India from 320 CE to 550 CE, produced some of the most beautiful and intricate gold coins in ancient India. These coins featured images of rulers, deities, and animals and were a symbol of wealth and power. The Gupta Dynasty coins are considered to be some of the finest examples of ancient Indian numismatics.
4. The Influence of the Kushan Empire on Ancient Indian Coins
The Kushan Empire, which ruled northern India from the 1st to the 3rd century CE, produced some of the most diverse and interesting coins in ancient India. The gold coins featured images of rulers, deities, and animals, and were a symbol of the empire's wealth and influence. The Kushan Empire's coins had a significant impact on the evolution of ancient Indian coins.
5. The Evolution of Ancient Indian Coins over Time
The evolution of ancient Indian coins reflects the region's changing political and cultural landscape over time. From the earliest punch-marked coins to the intricate gold coins of the Gupta Dynasty, each coin tells a unique story of the rulers and traditions of their time. The evolution of ancient Indian coins also reflects the region's increasing sophistication in terms of currency and trade practices.
Conclusion:
The origin and history of ancient India coins is a fascinating topic that offers insights into the region's rich history and culture. The coins of ancient India played an important role in the expansion of empires, the development of trade practices, and the expression of artistic and cultural traditions. By exploring the fascinating history of ancient India coins, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the legacy of this ancient civilization and the enduring impact it has had on the world.
#ancient coins online#ancient India coins#history of ancient India coins#ancient India coins for sale
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Gold Rate Today - A Detailed Guide
Gold has always been seen as a safe investment, one that has protected Indians from the volatile swings of the stock markets and alike. In the present day and age, the gold rate in India is a source of great speculation. The fluctuations in the gold rate today in India can have a major impact on the Indian economy and the savings of people.
Gold has always had a special significance in Indian culture and holds a distinct place in the heart of its people. From ornaments to coins to jewelry, to art, to investment, gold has been an integral part of Indian society since ancient times. India has a long and unique history with gold and it continues to be one of the most treasured entities.
Gold is both a symbol of status and a commodity of desire. Gold jewelry and ornaments are treasured by Indian brides and there is a custom where the bride's family hands out gold jewelry to mark the special occasion of marriage. Gold is also a sign of good luck and prosperity. On festivals and ceremonies, gold is gifted to friends and relatives as a token of blessing.
Apart from being a sign of luck and prosperity, gold has also been a means of storing wealth. Gold coins were used as currency in the past and India was one of the earliest gold-producing countries. During periods of financial instability, gold is one of the safest and most liquid assets that people can invest in. In India, 22K gold coins, which weigh eight grams, are considered to be the best form of wealth that families can hand down through generations.
The gold rate today in India, or anywhere across the globe, is determined by a wide variety of factors, both domestic and international. To be familiar with the gold rate today in India, it is very important to first understand the way and why gold prices vary. In addition to the international market factors, domestic factors also influence the gold rates. These can include, supply and demand, fluctuating rupee-dollar exchange rate, import duties on gold, rule of the Reserve Bank of India and the overall investment climate among others.
The present-day international market rate of gold has been consistently moving upwards, with the United States maintaining the maximum asset value. In these trends, India has not been able to go with the gold rate of the U.S. due to the increased demand for gold within India. India is the second-largest consumer of gold across the globe, with much of the gold coming into India through imports. The impact of this is higher gold prices for Indians and a lower value for the rupee.
The recent budget by Indian Government has proposed heavier duties and more synthetic gold imports from Alliance Gold, a body that deals with gold imports from member countries. This has seen an immediate increase in gold rates in India, especially for the investors in gold who are shelling out for every ounce of gold that comes in from abroad. As a result, the older jewelry being sold in India is being repurchased at a higher rate, owing to the new gold rate today in India.
Apart from the change in import duties, the gold rate in the Indian markets is influenced by the investment climate and consumer sentiment. With the returns in stock markets being unpredictable and volatile, Indians are seen to invest more in gold, to sustain the value of their investments. In such a scenario, the rate of gold is seen to discount the fluctuations of the markets, leading to increased demand and a consequent rise in gold rates.
In The Conclusion
The importance of gold cannot be undermined. India has always had an affinity towards gold, and societies have treasured it as both an investment and a beautiful ornament. It is believed to bring luck, is a symbol of status, and is a tangible asset that can be handed down from one generation to another. Additionally, gold’s various uses, both industrial and monetary, make it a valuable commodity and investment.
To conclude, the gold rate today in India is also heavily influenced by the rupee-dollar exchange rate. When the rupee weakens, the rate of gold steps in, providing a source of revenue mutually beneficial to both the buyer and the seller. In the present day, the gold rate in India is seen to be more stable, owing to the measures taken by the government to make sure a higher gold rate.
To sum it up, the gold rate today in India is determined by a variety of international and domestic factors. The investment climate, the rupee-dollar exchange rate and the government’s policies all affect the gold rate, either positively or negatively. All in all, the gold rate in India is rising owing to the Indian Government
However, if you are also looking forward to keeping yourself up to date with the current gold rate, feel free to check out how “Gold Rate Today” can help you!
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Modern Day Worlds Trying to Make Sense of Astrology
New Post has been published on http://aopsy.com/index.php/2017/08/23/modern-day-worlds-trying-to-make-sense-of-astrology/
Modern Day Worlds Trying to Make Sense of Astrology
Astrology is a body of faith, systems and customs wherein comprehension of their relative positioning of celestial bodies along with other associated details are employed in assessing, interpreting, and collecting information about human affairs, character and other sociological concerns. Quite a few programs and customs that practice astrological theories came about because its beginnings dating back in the 2nd century BCE. Through history, astrology has led in the casting of civilizations, in forming ancient astronomy and other areas.
Oftentimes, astronomy and astrology are regarded as much equally, as astronomical monitoring mainly requires the need for divinatory and predictive understanding. But, astronomy began to veer away from astrology at the 18th century following a lengthy and slow period of separation. The kinds of astrology that contemporary astrologers use as their most important traditions include Chinese, Indian, Western and Mayan astrology.
Western astrology has considerably diversified over the years with the coming of new moves and distinct strategies.
For more than a million decades today, Astrology has produced a profound impact both on Eastern and Western cultures. In the midst age, the machine of celestial world and celestial bodies has been stated to have had an effect on the branches of knowledge and the planet as a whole.
Additionally, astrology continues to play an significant part in literature, language and the arts. For example, the expression flu was coined as such as physicians once though t that this outbreak was due to poor influences among the stars and planets. These words describe personal qualities which are believed to be greatly affected by the world’s astrological characteristics. Additionally in literature, authors like Sir William Shakespeare and Geoffrey Chaucer made use of astrological symbolism for their masterpieces that aided clarify their functions’ characters. In reality, it’s even stated that you have to have a history of astrological symbolism if you’re to well enjoy their literature.
Even contemporary leaders such as Carl Jung consider from the descriptive ability of astrology regarding the brain. In schooling, Dante Alighieri also saw the use of astrology in shaping contemporary science. Astrology has additionally influence the music landscape using the orchestral suite called “The Planets’ by British composer Gustav Holst.
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This article is inscribed in the context of a larger project that addresses the early modern Spanish accounts of Asia, which are generally less researched than the well-known chronicles of the New World. More specifically, my present work joins the efforts of a progressively growing number of scholars who seek to create links between both bodies of texts by inquiring whether –and, if so, to what extent– the Spanish representations of the native peoples of America had an impact on the Spanish portrayals of the inhabitants of Asia (in this case, the Philippines). For this purpose, I compare the Relation of the Voyage to the Philippine Islands (1565) and other documents written by Miguel López de Legazpi with narratives about the New World, mostly by Christopher Columbus and Hernán Cortés. I analyze the rhetorical devices used in these writings to describe cultural contacts, and more broadly, to relate them to the “connected histories” –a term coined by Sanjay Subrahmanyam and further elaborated by Serge Gruzinski– that were taking place between Spain, America, and Asia, and have continued to develop until today.
Beauchesne, Kim. “Trans-Pacific Connections: Cultural Contacts through the Lens of Miguel López de Legazpi’s Representation of the Philippines and its Relationship with the Early Accounts of the New World”. Asian Journal of Latin American Studies (2015) Vol. 28 No. 4: 1-28.
The troop led by Legazpi first arrived at Gamay Bay off Samar in February 1565. Dedicated to searching for food supplies, it went to Cabalian on Leyte, quickly moved to Limasawa and Bohol, and in April 1565 finally settled in Cebu, in the Visayas, where it would stay and wreak “havoc among local populations” until 1571 (Newson 2009, 53) before leaving for Luzon.13 The Relation, which narrates this journey, opens with a conventional greeting to King Philip II of Spain, positive commentaries about the good health of Legazpi and his men that confirm the expedition’s success, and the explanation of the causes of a minor incident, namely the loss of the vessel “San Lucas” due to the pilot’s treason. Immediately afterward, on the second page, begins a detailed description of the sailors’ arrival at the Ladrones Islands and the mercantile exchanges that took place there (198) –a textual organization that stresses the importance of the financial dimension of the Spanish enterprise. Legazpi mentions the large number of natives that approached the crew and proceeds to make an inventory of the articles available: “potatoes, rice, yams, cocoa-nut, sugar-cane, excellent bananas, and several other kinds of fruit” (Legazpi 1911[1565], 198) –produce that, even if less valuable than precious metals, were greatly desired for the survival of the fleet members. He continues to refer to the abundant vegetation, with a greater emphasis on the economic lexical field: he points out in hyperbolic terms that ginger “grows in this island in so great quantity that it is a thing to wonder over”, and underscores the fact that no work is required, as it conveniently “comes up […] of itself in the open fields” (Legazpi 1911[1565], 198) without the need to cultivate it –a clear allusion to the fertility of the land “discovered”. The Basque navigator then focuses on the commercial partners themselves. According to him, they are strong and of good stature, which is indicated by a comparison to the home country: they are “better proportioned than the Spaniards” (Legazpi 1911[1565], 199), but definitely “savages” (Legazpi 1911[1565], 199), since they “have no laws, or chiefs whom to obey” (Legazpi 1911[1565], 199). This latter statement (perhaps more akin to a cliché than the result of an acute observation) is contradicted later on with references to local kings and their customs.14
The similarities with Columbus’s first representations of the New World are striking. Indeed, it is known that the intertwined economic and environmental15 lexical fields, portrayal of the well-built indigenous people, frequent hyperboles, and analogies to what is “best” in Spain also appear in the Genovese’s writings, as has been demonstrated by Beatriz Pastor (1988[1983], 33). For example, like Legazpi, he manifestly depicts the fertile vegetation in exalted terms, rendering it equivalent to that of the Old World: “And later [I noticed], near the said islet, groves of trees, the most beautiful that I saw and with their leaves as green as those of Castile in the months of April and May, and lots of water” (Columbus 1991[1492], 75-77). Moreover, in his famous Letter to Luis de Santangel (1493), the pecuniary connotations in the description of this vegetation may not be overlooked: “There are wonderful pine-groves, and very large plains of verdure, and there is honey, and many kinds of birds, and many various fruits. In the earth there are many mines of metals; and there is a population of incalculable nature” (Columbus 2003[1493], 264-265) –as if the workforce was anxiously waiting to labor for the King of Spain by extracting the territory’s natural resources.
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In this regard, a significant element borrowed from the chronicles of the New World is the terminology that reflects the richness of the cultural exchanges taking place between Spain, America, and Asia in the early modern era. The most patent examples are the terms “Indian”, employed on almost every page to name the inhabitants of the Philippines, and “Moros”, which was commonly used in Spain to refer to the Muslims.17 Another word, “barbacoa” (Legazpi et al. 1943[1565], 61), derived from the Taíno language of the Caribbean, demonstrates the constant “traveling” of vocabulary (and its cultural connotations) from one context to the other. Moreover, such terms coexist with Filipino ones, such as “prau” (Legazpi 1911[1565], 210 and 211), a phenomenon that implies notable instances of hybridity.18 In addition, the word “escaupiles” (Legazpi 1911[1565], 213) or “escaupil” in the singular –a corruption of the Nahuatl “ichcaupilli” meaning “a species of ancient Mexican armor”, according to footnote 97– is clear evidence that the Spanish invention of Asia was (at least partially) filtered by the representation of the natives of the New World, especially New Spain in this case.
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Other discursive models come to mind when analyzing the rhetorical strategies at work in Legazpi’s texts. On the one hand, the Basque governor seemingly delivers messages of peace and protects the aboriginals whenever possible. He repeatedly resorts to “good treatment” to convert them into obedient vassals of the Spanish monarch, similar to the alleged behavior of many explorers, according to their own writings.19 We must not forget that Philip II, as a result of the Valladolid debate (1550-1551), among other factors, supported bloodless conversions to Christianity instead of violent forms of conquest, and “[t]he Philippines would effectively be the testing ground for this more enlightened colonial policy” (Newson 2009, 6). On the other hand, when the harmonious ties are disrupted, Legazpi turns to a discourse reminiscent of Cortés’s self-portrayal as just, industrious, efficient, loyal to the king, and respectful of the law –thus determined to punish the natives who commit acts of treason– as Pastor appropriately defines it (Pastor 1988[1983], chapter 2). Such a connection, however indirect, is not accidental, since Legazpi probably became familiar with the European rhetoric on the New World during his stay in New Spain between 1528 and 1564 while working in the financial department council and as the civil governor of Mexico City. For example, in the same manner that Cortés presented himself as “one of Your subjects and vassals” who strove “with all his bodily powers to extend Your Majesty’s realms and dominions in these parts” (Cortés 2001[1524], 333), Legazpi aimed to be “a very prudent and rigorously just man”, a strong-willed leader capable of making the right decisions and who induced “many of the natives to become vassals of your majesty” (Legazpi 1911[1567], 232). Also like Cortés, who did not hesitate to execute traitors (Cortés 2001[1522], 211) or burn towns (Cortés 2001[1522], 254), the Basque governor allegedly needed to deal with autochthonous people who committed “evil deeds” and hence deserved punishment. For instance, when some aboriginals randomly killed Spanish soldiers, their houses were immediately set on fire and they were sentenced to hanging (Legazpi et al. 1943[1565], 60, 75). Reminding us of Cortés’s passage on how he violently substituted “idols” with “images of Our Lady” (Cortés 2001[1520], 106), this emphasis on individual leadership is combined with allusions to the religious lexical field, which was evidently predominant in that period. Legazpi ends his narration with a reference to the importance of venerating “an image of the child Jesus” (Legazpi 1911[1565], 216).20 Unsurprisingly, one may observe other manifestations of the religious discourse that is omnipresent in Legazpi’s writings, as in the chronicles of the New World,21 especially in relation to how the crew was frequently saved by God: “On Holy Saturday […] while we were thus plunged in great anxiety and grief, fearing that our companions might have been lost, captured, or killed”, they reappeared, looking “well and strong” (Legazpi 1911[1565], 210-211). At the end of the journey, the indigenous acts of resistance (in addition to the arduous physical conditions) were so intense that Legazpi begged for assistance, expressing what Homi K. Bhabha calls “colonial paranoia”, namely the eminent fear caused by the menace of the subaltern Other. Therefore, perceptible moments of insurrection reveal that the situation was not always placid, although these are often followed by impressions of awe with respect to local customs (for example, how the natives used canoes is recorded as “a thing to marvel at” (Legazpi 1911[1565], 110))22 –an ambiguity that equally permeates the early accounts of America.23
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Among the few differences between Legazpi’s, Columbus’s, and Cortés’s texts is a minor issue that ruins the invention of what is now called the Philippines as an idyllic region: the manifest absence of a discourse of abundance, which was inherent in Columbus’s depiction of the Caribbean as a locus amoenus (“[…] all [hills and mountains] most beautiful in a thousand shapes, and all accessible, and full of trees of a thousand kinds, so lofty that they seem to reach the sky. And I am assured that they never lose their foliage; as may be imagined, since I saw them as green and as beautiful as they are in Spain during May” (Columbus 2003[1493], 264)). It was also a part of Cortés’s well-structured description of New Spain’s squares “where every kind of merchandise produced in these lands is found” (Cortés 2001[1520], 103). Indeed, in Legazpi’s documents, the brief allusions to the fertility of the land (associated with the selflessness of the local people) are progressively overshadowed by a bleaker vision. For instance, despite their “discovery” of “large, beautiful, and fertile open fields” (Legazpi 1911[1565], 214), the soldiers could only obtain “a small quantity of gold, wax, cinnamon, and other things” (Legazpi 1911[1565], 210). In contrast to the exaltation of America’s endless natural resources –“a thousand kinds of trees” (Columbus 1991[1492], 111), “every sort of vegetable”, and “many sorts of fruit” (Cortés 2001[1520], 104)– Legazpi laments that these were limited. In this sense, the diminutive “illas” of “cosillas” used in the Relación circunstanciada (Legazpi et al. 1943[1565], 55) serves to emphatically highlight the scarcity of material supplies (mostly food provisions) and hence arouse emotion through the trope of pathos –a strategy that proved successful, since the Basque governor received an allocation of encomiendas from the Crown in 1568 (Newson 2009, 6) and the title of Adelantado of the Ladrones Islands the following year.
Another point of departure from Columbus’s letters is the fact that the presumed generosity of the indigenous peoples the Admiral encountered is replaced by the ubiquitous term “contract” (“contrato” and the verb “contratar” in the Relación circunstanciada), indicating that pragmatic commercial exchanges must be fair in the negotiation of new social interactions. Whereas Columbus happily affirms in his diary’s entry of October 11, 1492 that “they gave everything for anything that was given to them” (Columbus 1991[1492], 71),24 the inhabitants of “Çubu” (Cebu) often attempted to sell their goods at the highest price possible. It soon became clear that most of the trading activities were no longer advantageous to the Spaniards due to the elevated costs in relation to the modest gains: “Some of them [the natives] gave […] a certain amount of rice and other food, but nothing whatsoever through which his majesty has derived any profit –on the contrary, a large amount of gold has been paid out for the provisions aforesaid” (Legazpi in Riquel 1911[1568], 253). For this reason, the expedition members almost always offered to purchase the food (and even the slaves) they received.
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Modern Day Worlds Trying to Make Sense of Astrology
New Post has been published on http://aopsy.com/index.php/2017/08/23/modern-day-worlds-trying-to-make-sense-of-astrology/
Modern Day Worlds Trying to Make Sense of Astrology
Astrology is a body of faith, systems and customs wherein comprehension of their relative positioning of celestial bodies along with other associated details are employed in assessing, interpreting, and collecting information about human affairs, character and other sociological concerns. Quite a few programs and customs that practice astrological theories came about because its beginnings dating back in the 2nd century BCE. Through history, astrology has led in the casting of civilizations, in forming ancient astronomy and other areas.
Oftentimes, astronomy and astrology are regarded as much equally, as astronomical monitoring mainly requires the need for divinatory and predictive understanding. But, astronomy began to veer away from astrology at the 18th century following a lengthy and slow period of separation. The kinds of astrology that contemporary astrologers use as their most important traditions include Chinese, Indian, Western and Mayan astrology.
Western astrology has considerably diversified over the years with the coming of new moves and distinct strategies.
For more than a million decades today, Astrology has produced a profound impact both on Eastern and Western cultures. In the midst age, the machine of celestial world and celestial bodies has been stated to have had an effect on the branches of knowledge and the planet as a whole.
Additionally, astrology continues to play an significant part in literature, language and the arts. For example, the expression flu was coined as such as physicians once though t that this outbreak was due to poor influences among the stars and planets. These words describe personal qualities which are believed to be greatly affected by the world’s astrological characteristics. Additionally in literature, authors like Sir William Shakespeare and Geoffrey Chaucer made use of astrological symbolism for their masterpieces that aided clarify their functions’ characters. In reality, it’s even stated that you have to have a history of astrological symbolism if you’re to well enjoy their literature.
Even contemporary leaders such as Carl Jung consider from the descriptive ability of astrology regarding the brain. In schooling, Dante Alighieri also saw the use of astrology in shaping contemporary science. Astrology has additionally influence the music landscape using the orchestral suite called “The Planets’ by British composer Gustav Holst.
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