I've never been a history buff. Ever. I couldn't care less about history. But that changes, as I travel. As I see more of the world, I wonder how we got where we are. When I traveled to Vietnam (Blog to come at some point) and read about the "American War" I contemplate what we were doing there. I'm intrigued by history.
Right now I'm in Boston visiting my brother and his wife. They're so much fun and we've been doing lots of sight-seeing of historical places. We've seen the Battle Road Trail. On April 19, 1775, British troops marched from Boston to Concord along this road, with Paul Revere riding ahead to announce that the "Regulars are out!" Of course, some people think he called, "The British are Coming!" Frankly, I think he probably yelled a lot of things that night, including possibly a few colorful words thrown in there!! As we walked down the Battle Road Trail, we walked past houses and placards which told about events of that night, and the nights following, which began the Revolutionary War and eventually led to our independence. Sis said, "I wonder how British people feel walking this road and reading this. I wonder if they feel as you did in Vietnam reading about the American War?" Yes, I wonder too!
4 comments:
I wish you were coming through P.A. on your travels! Museums and dinner in Philly would be nice.
I so must get to Boston!! I have always wanted to go.
I have often thought about this issue of perspective since I AM a huge history buff/freak/nerd. When you lived in Japan, did you ever get to Hiroshima or Nagasaki? I'm sure the memorials there must be incredible. I remember my folks saying that when they visited Pearl Harbor back in 1989, there were Japanese tourists strutting around the Arizona memorial saying "We did this." I think I would have screamed! I can't imagine acting like that at Hiroshima! I hope times have changed . . .but unfortunately, I think there will always be war somewhere in the world (because moms aren't in charge!! he he)
I love visiting Boston. It has made me very interested in history. I even checked out the book 1776.
-m-
I AM a history geek ....always have been, always will be - was my favourite subject at school (weird I know!!!!) but how much cooler is when you get to do things live and in person - see and hear different perspectives, touch and do cool stuff - if all learning could be that way how much more fun would history be?!?!?!?!
Am in seattle now ... not having much to do with history but absolutely lapping up the clear blue skies, sunshine and fresh air!!!
xoxo J
Post a Comment