Posts about History
So lately I had a realization that led to a total reappreciation of my language and I want to know if this is familiar to other Europeans…
As a Dutch historian turned woodworker, I became aware of the vast amount of common sayings in Dutch derive from terminology used in woodworking and construction. The second common theme in Dutch sayings relates to water and sailing. u/And as far as I’m aware, we’re also the only country to use disease while cursing (a lot).
My theory is that reflects the highly urbanized society in which the Dutch language developed as a common language. During the 17th century, the rate urbanization was over 70%, compared to an 8% European average. For cities, you need buildings, and for buildings you need money. And for money you need trade. Trade means travel, and travel spreads diseases, which do especially well in cities. Makes sense right?
Does your language have something similar?
Welcome to our History Questions Thread!
This thread is for all those history related questions that are too simple, short or a bit too silly to warrant their own post.
So, do you have a question about history and have always been afraid to ask? Well, today is your lucky day. Ask away!
Of course all our regular rules and guidelines still apply and to be just that bit extra clear:
Questions need to be historical in nature. Silly does not mean that your question should be a joke. r/history also has an active discord server where you can discuss history with other enthusiasts and experts