Andrea here, starting to get excited that Murder on Queen’s Landing, my latest Wrexford & Sloane Regency mystery, releases on Tuesday! It’s always a thrill when a book is close to getting into the hands (or ears!) of readers, as that’s what makes all the angst and gnashing of teeth within the solitary confinement of the writing room worthwhile.
And it also makes me reflect on what a long process it is to bring a mystery from the initial “hmm, what if . . .” to weaving all the threads together (without tying myself in knots!) to handing in a finished manuscript and finally seeing a printed book!
For me, research is always a huge part of the early stages. I like to base my stories around scientific discoveries or technical advances in the Regency, and then figure out how create a mystery with them interacting with some aspect of the era’s rich history. And then, of course, you need to figure out a villain—which isn’t always as easy as it might seem. However, in this book, in which I wanted to create a scheme that involved skullduggery in finance and commerce, an obvious villain leapt to mind . . .
During the Regency, the storied East India Company was the most powerful economic entity in the world. Its original royal charter, granted in 1600 by Queen Elizabeth I, gave a group of English merchants permission develop mercantile opportunities in the East Indies in the name of the Crown, in return for a monopoly on the trade. But in addition, the charter gave the company formed by the merchants the power to “wage war.”
This became a key clause. At first, the East India Company raised troops to force other foreign trading companies out of the Indian subcontinent, which was proving a very lucrative market. But soon began to act as a sovereign power, creating its own private corporate army. (in the late 1778, there were 67,000 soldiers—and at its pinnacle of power it had 260,000 soldiers—which was twice the size of England’s standing army at the time.)
In 1757, the Company seized the entire Mughal state of Bengal, and from there, they moved to conquer a vast part of the subcontinent and bring it under their rule. The British government slowly began to pass some laws limiting the Company's power, but with Britain at odds with France for much of the 1700s—the Seven Years War, and the American Revolution—the presence of the EIC private armies were a help as conflict with French-supported Indian rulers required the British to send regular troops to defend the country’s commercial lifeline. (Those of you who are fans of Bernard Cornwell’s Richard Sharpe series have read about those bloody conflicts.)
In 1784, Britain passed an Act separating the EIC’s political and economic power, but was nebulous and proved hard to enforce. The Regency era saw the Company continue to rule the Indian subcontinent as their fiefdom. They collected taxes from the local populations, minted their own money, had their own private flags and set up governor-generals in various regions who ruled with absolute authority.
As you can imagine, the Company earned quite a reputation for ruthlessness. One aspect of their numerous money-making ventures particularly caught my eye. (Sorry—no spoilers here, so I won’t say what!) It was diabolically clever . . . I can’t help but imagine that smart young men whose minds were skilled at math and finance were attracted to working for the Company, seeing it as a way to advance and make their fortune . . . just as the bright young men today are attracted to Wall Street. So the Company really did work out some very sophisticated financial models for profiting from international trade.
So the core mystery I use in Murder on Queen’s Landing is based on actual history. But of course, as I’m writing fiction, I can also let my imagination run wild. I had great fun weaving together the plot (though I confess I had to consult with some friends who understand advanced economics far better than I do to help me through some of the fine points of how money moves around the world!) Fair warning—I hope I keep you guessing!
As I’ve said before in my blogs, one of the many things I love about the Regency is how many many parallels there are to our own modern times. In this case, the idea of a multinational company that hold immense economic power—perhaps too much power—is something that worries many of us today . . .
The East India Company frightened many people around the world in its heyday . . . What about you? What company worries you you regarding its influence and ability to affect our world? I’ll be giving away an e-book copy of Murder at Queen’s Landing to one winner chosen at random from those who leave a comment here.
That’s a really interesting question. The first things that pop to mind are companies like Amazon, with its influence on our buying habits, and Google and Facebook, with their control of information, or even Hollywood, with its effect on attitudes.
But if I am envisioning an Evil Empire, it will be something flying under the radar—a company that makes something like a chip that all of those other companies need to carry on their business. Then something is embedded in that chip, without those companies knowing, that exercises mind control over anyone who deals with any of them.
I’m hoping that this is strictly a sci-fi fantasy.
That’s a really interesting question. The first things that pop to mind are companies like Amazon, with its influence on our buying habits, and Google and Facebook, with their control of information, or even Hollywood, with its effect on attitudes.
But if I am envisioning an Evil Empire, it will be something flying under the radar—a company that makes something like a chip that all of those other companies need to carry on their business. Then something is embedded in that chip, without those companies knowing, that exercises mind control over anyone who deals with any of them.
I’m hoping that this is strictly a sci-fi fantasy.
That’s a really interesting question. The first things that pop to mind are companies like Amazon, with its influence on our buying habits, and Google and Facebook, with their control of information, or even Hollywood, with its effect on attitudes.
But if I am envisioning an Evil Empire, it will be something flying under the radar—a company that makes something like a chip that all of those other companies need to carry on their business. Then something is embedded in that chip, without those companies knowing, that exercises mind control over anyone who deals with any of them.
I’m hoping that this is strictly a sci-fi fantasy.
That’s a really interesting question. The first things that pop to mind are companies like Amazon, with its influence on our buying habits, and Google and Facebook, with their control of information, or even Hollywood, with its effect on attitudes.
But if I am envisioning an Evil Empire, it will be something flying under the radar—a company that makes something like a chip that all of those other companies need to carry on their business. Then something is embedded in that chip, without those companies knowing, that exercises mind control over anyone who deals with any of them.
I’m hoping that this is strictly a sci-fi fantasy.
That’s a really interesting question. The first things that pop to mind are companies like Amazon, with its influence on our buying habits, and Google and Facebook, with their control of information, or even Hollywood, with its effect on attitudes.
But if I am envisioning an Evil Empire, it will be something flying under the radar—a company that makes something like a chip that all of those other companies need to carry on their business. Then something is embedded in that chip, without those companies knowing, that exercises mind control over anyone who deals with any of them.
I’m hoping that this is strictly a sci-fi fantasy.
Thanks for the background on the East India Company. It’s Fascinating! As for a company as a villain, I’m thinking that a Social Media Company like Facebook, Twitter, and others with the the bots and cookies they use to follow our shopping trends, and all the personal information we willingly enter daily can be gathered and used against us. Think about if they really actually tried to corrupt an election? How many people actually fact check something that reads like it was written by a knowledgeable person who has him/herself weighed the facts he/she writes about, but is really feeding us his/her own agenda, for purposes unknown to us. The other scenario that concerns me is our children programming themselves to think in 140 characters. What will happen to our language, ability to read, and express ourselves without emojis? The future could be quite frightening. Like Lil above mentioned, I hope will remain only in the realm of Science Fiction, while the author in me says, “Hmm…This could end up in the dystopian noir file.”
Thanks for the background on the East India Company. It’s Fascinating! As for a company as a villain, I’m thinking that a Social Media Company like Facebook, Twitter, and others with the the bots and cookies they use to follow our shopping trends, and all the personal information we willingly enter daily can be gathered and used against us. Think about if they really actually tried to corrupt an election? How many people actually fact check something that reads like it was written by a knowledgeable person who has him/herself weighed the facts he/she writes about, but is really feeding us his/her own agenda, for purposes unknown to us. The other scenario that concerns me is our children programming themselves to think in 140 characters. What will happen to our language, ability to read, and express ourselves without emojis? The future could be quite frightening. Like Lil above mentioned, I hope will remain only in the realm of Science Fiction, while the author in me says, “Hmm…This could end up in the dystopian noir file.”
Thanks for the background on the East India Company. It’s Fascinating! As for a company as a villain, I’m thinking that a Social Media Company like Facebook, Twitter, and others with the the bots and cookies they use to follow our shopping trends, and all the personal information we willingly enter daily can be gathered and used against us. Think about if they really actually tried to corrupt an election? How many people actually fact check something that reads like it was written by a knowledgeable person who has him/herself weighed the facts he/she writes about, but is really feeding us his/her own agenda, for purposes unknown to us. The other scenario that concerns me is our children programming themselves to think in 140 characters. What will happen to our language, ability to read, and express ourselves without emojis? The future could be quite frightening. Like Lil above mentioned, I hope will remain only in the realm of Science Fiction, while the author in me says, “Hmm…This could end up in the dystopian noir file.”
Thanks for the background on the East India Company. It’s Fascinating! As for a company as a villain, I’m thinking that a Social Media Company like Facebook, Twitter, and others with the the bots and cookies they use to follow our shopping trends, and all the personal information we willingly enter daily can be gathered and used against us. Think about if they really actually tried to corrupt an election? How many people actually fact check something that reads like it was written by a knowledgeable person who has him/herself weighed the facts he/she writes about, but is really feeding us his/her own agenda, for purposes unknown to us. The other scenario that concerns me is our children programming themselves to think in 140 characters. What will happen to our language, ability to read, and express ourselves without emojis? The future could be quite frightening. Like Lil above mentioned, I hope will remain only in the realm of Science Fiction, while the author in me says, “Hmm…This could end up in the dystopian noir file.”
Thanks for the background on the East India Company. It’s Fascinating! As for a company as a villain, I’m thinking that a Social Media Company like Facebook, Twitter, and others with the the bots and cookies they use to follow our shopping trends, and all the personal information we willingly enter daily can be gathered and used against us. Think about if they really actually tried to corrupt an election? How many people actually fact check something that reads like it was written by a knowledgeable person who has him/herself weighed the facts he/she writes about, but is really feeding us his/her own agenda, for purposes unknown to us. The other scenario that concerns me is our children programming themselves to think in 140 characters. What will happen to our language, ability to read, and express ourselves without emojis? The future could be quite frightening. Like Lil above mentioned, I hope will remain only in the realm of Science Fiction, while the author in me says, “Hmm…This could end up in the dystopian noir file.”
I did commonwealth and empire history at school and focused on Robert Clive. It was interesting to be reminded of my ancestors activities in the EIC … looking forward to learning about some of the financial misdeeds which I don’t think were covered in my school text!
The growth of the FANGs is a bit worrying as they achieve near monopoly status …. when I buy online its nearly always with Amazon, though what really annoys me is the way that Sky TV captures many of the top sporting events pricing the poor old BBC out of the market. BBC coverage is far superior to the commercial coverage in my opinion but soccer coverage has been largely reduced to a ‘match of the day’ round up, though we do still get the Wimbledon tennis coverage … but for how much longer!
Fascinating post Andrea.
I did commonwealth and empire history at school and focused on Robert Clive. It was interesting to be reminded of my ancestors activities in the EIC … looking forward to learning about some of the financial misdeeds which I don’t think were covered in my school text!
The growth of the FANGs is a bit worrying as they achieve near monopoly status …. when I buy online its nearly always with Amazon, though what really annoys me is the way that Sky TV captures many of the top sporting events pricing the poor old BBC out of the market. BBC coverage is far superior to the commercial coverage in my opinion but soccer coverage has been largely reduced to a ‘match of the day’ round up, though we do still get the Wimbledon tennis coverage … but for how much longer!
Fascinating post Andrea.
I did commonwealth and empire history at school and focused on Robert Clive. It was interesting to be reminded of my ancestors activities in the EIC … looking forward to learning about some of the financial misdeeds which I don’t think were covered in my school text!
The growth of the FANGs is a bit worrying as they achieve near monopoly status …. when I buy online its nearly always with Amazon, though what really annoys me is the way that Sky TV captures many of the top sporting events pricing the poor old BBC out of the market. BBC coverage is far superior to the commercial coverage in my opinion but soccer coverage has been largely reduced to a ‘match of the day’ round up, though we do still get the Wimbledon tennis coverage … but for how much longer!
Fascinating post Andrea.
I did commonwealth and empire history at school and focused on Robert Clive. It was interesting to be reminded of my ancestors activities in the EIC … looking forward to learning about some of the financial misdeeds which I don’t think were covered in my school text!
The growth of the FANGs is a bit worrying as they achieve near monopoly status …. when I buy online its nearly always with Amazon, though what really annoys me is the way that Sky TV captures many of the top sporting events pricing the poor old BBC out of the market. BBC coverage is far superior to the commercial coverage in my opinion but soccer coverage has been largely reduced to a ‘match of the day’ round up, though we do still get the Wimbledon tennis coverage … but for how much longer!
Fascinating post Andrea.
I did commonwealth and empire history at school and focused on Robert Clive. It was interesting to be reminded of my ancestors activities in the EIC … looking forward to learning about some of the financial misdeeds which I don’t think were covered in my school text!
The growth of the FANGs is a bit worrying as they achieve near monopoly status …. when I buy online its nearly always with Amazon, though what really annoys me is the way that Sky TV captures many of the top sporting events pricing the poor old BBC out of the market. BBC coverage is far superior to the commercial coverage in my opinion but soccer coverage has been largely reduced to a ‘match of the day’ round up, though we do still get the Wimbledon tennis coverage … but for how much longer!
Fascinating post Andrea.
Wow, that’s a really good answer, Lil—and one worthy of a mystery novel! I try to make my villains a little unexpected . . .and it’s susually the hiddden ones who are most dangerous, so I share your fear.
Alas, I worry that nothing too sci-fi for this brave new world. Though I hope I’m wrong.
Wow, that’s a really good answer, Lil—and one worthy of a mystery novel! I try to make my villains a little unexpected . . .and it’s susually the hiddden ones who are most dangerous, so I share your fear.
Alas, I worry that nothing too sci-fi for this brave new world. Though I hope I’m wrong.
Wow, that’s a really good answer, Lil—and one worthy of a mystery novel! I try to make my villains a little unexpected . . .and it’s susually the hiddden ones who are most dangerous, so I share your fear.
Alas, I worry that nothing too sci-fi for this brave new world. Though I hope I’m wrong.
Wow, that’s a really good answer, Lil—and one worthy of a mystery novel! I try to make my villains a little unexpected . . .and it’s susually the hiddden ones who are most dangerous, so I share your fear.
Alas, I worry that nothing too sci-fi for this brave new world. Though I hope I’m wrong.
Wow, that’s a really good answer, Lil—and one worthy of a mystery novel! I try to make my villains a little unexpected . . .and it’s susually the hiddden ones who are most dangerous, so I share your fear.
Alas, I worry that nothing too sci-fi for this brave new world. Though I hope I’m wrong.
Pamela, I share your concerns about social media. Quite frankly, I think it’s one of the worst developments in recent times. As you point out, the misinformation, the invasion of privacy . . .it’s all very scary.
Sigh. Unfortunately, it’s hard to shut Pandora’s Box. I just hope we learn how to control the apps before they control us.
Pamela, I share your concerns about social media. Quite frankly, I think it’s one of the worst developments in recent times. As you point out, the misinformation, the invasion of privacy . . .it’s all very scary.
Sigh. Unfortunately, it’s hard to shut Pandora’s Box. I just hope we learn how to control the apps before they control us.
Pamela, I share your concerns about social media. Quite frankly, I think it’s one of the worst developments in recent times. As you point out, the misinformation, the invasion of privacy . . .it’s all very scary.
Sigh. Unfortunately, it’s hard to shut Pandora’s Box. I just hope we learn how to control the apps before they control us.
Pamela, I share your concerns about social media. Quite frankly, I think it’s one of the worst developments in recent times. As you point out, the misinformation, the invasion of privacy . . .it’s all very scary.
Sigh. Unfortunately, it’s hard to shut Pandora’s Box. I just hope we learn how to control the apps before they control us.
Pamela, I share your concerns about social media. Quite frankly, I think it’s one of the worst developments in recent times. As you point out, the misinformation, the invasion of privacy . . .it’s all very scary.
Sigh. Unfortunately, it’s hard to shut Pandora’s Box. I just hope we learn how to control the apps before they control us.
Oh, Quantum, I didn’t have room in the blog to mention Robert Clive, but he’s quite a larger than life character, isn’t e?
I agree with you about monopolies. I use Amazon for so many things too, as they make it so easy. It’s seductive . . .and I’m sure we’ll pay for it later.
That’s interesting about the sports coverage. I much prefer understated commentary rather than the sportscasters who think they are the stars. I love the BBC coverage of Wimbledon! it’s as quietly soothing as the traditional clothing required of the players!
Oh, Quantum, I didn’t have room in the blog to mention Robert Clive, but he’s quite a larger than life character, isn’t e?
I agree with you about monopolies. I use Amazon for so many things too, as they make it so easy. It’s seductive . . .and I’m sure we’ll pay for it later.
That’s interesting about the sports coverage. I much prefer understated commentary rather than the sportscasters who think they are the stars. I love the BBC coverage of Wimbledon! it’s as quietly soothing as the traditional clothing required of the players!
Oh, Quantum, I didn’t have room in the blog to mention Robert Clive, but he’s quite a larger than life character, isn’t e?
I agree with you about monopolies. I use Amazon for so many things too, as they make it so easy. It’s seductive . . .and I’m sure we’ll pay for it later.
That’s interesting about the sports coverage. I much prefer understated commentary rather than the sportscasters who think they are the stars. I love the BBC coverage of Wimbledon! it’s as quietly soothing as the traditional clothing required of the players!
Oh, Quantum, I didn’t have room in the blog to mention Robert Clive, but he’s quite a larger than life character, isn’t e?
I agree with you about monopolies. I use Amazon for so many things too, as they make it so easy. It’s seductive . . .and I’m sure we’ll pay for it later.
That’s interesting about the sports coverage. I much prefer understated commentary rather than the sportscasters who think they are the stars. I love the BBC coverage of Wimbledon! it’s as quietly soothing as the traditional clothing required of the players!
Oh, Quantum, I didn’t have room in the blog to mention Robert Clive, but he’s quite a larger than life character, isn’t e?
I agree with you about monopolies. I use Amazon for so many things too, as they make it so easy. It’s seductive . . .and I’m sure we’ll pay for it later.
That’s interesting about the sports coverage. I much prefer understated commentary rather than the sportscasters who think they are the stars. I love the BBC coverage of Wimbledon! it’s as quietly soothing as the traditional clothing required of the players!
I’m concerned about technology “spying” on us and that information being accessible for anyone smart enough to retrieve it. Nanny cams, Alexa, Ring door cameras, built-in GPS in cars. Cameras in our iphones and laptops. I’m not paranoid but I’m definitely leery about the potential for misuse in today’s technology.
I’m concerned about technology “spying” on us and that information being accessible for anyone smart enough to retrieve it. Nanny cams, Alexa, Ring door cameras, built-in GPS in cars. Cameras in our iphones and laptops. I’m not paranoid but I’m definitely leery about the potential for misuse in today’s technology.
I’m concerned about technology “spying” on us and that information being accessible for anyone smart enough to retrieve it. Nanny cams, Alexa, Ring door cameras, built-in GPS in cars. Cameras in our iphones and laptops. I’m not paranoid but I’m definitely leery about the potential for misuse in today’s technology.
I’m concerned about technology “spying” on us and that information being accessible for anyone smart enough to retrieve it. Nanny cams, Alexa, Ring door cameras, built-in GPS in cars. Cameras in our iphones and laptops. I’m not paranoid but I’m definitely leery about the potential for misuse in today’s technology.
I’m concerned about technology “spying” on us and that information being accessible for anyone smart enough to retrieve it. Nanny cams, Alexa, Ring door cameras, built-in GPS in cars. Cameras in our iphones and laptops. I’m not paranoid but I’m definitely leery about the potential for misuse in today’s technology.
I would say Amazon, especially in the U.S. – not so much in the rest of the world. Amazon influences what and how people purchase all goods from books to vacuum cleaners. I almost never buy from Amazon – and if I do it’s only ebooks that I can’t get from any other online retailer. Personally, I prefer to buy goods from local retailers to support our local economy, and were possible I buy things that are made in my country for the same reason.
I would say Amazon, especially in the U.S. – not so much in the rest of the world. Amazon influences what and how people purchase all goods from books to vacuum cleaners. I almost never buy from Amazon – and if I do it’s only ebooks that I can’t get from any other online retailer. Personally, I prefer to buy goods from local retailers to support our local economy, and were possible I buy things that are made in my country for the same reason.
I would say Amazon, especially in the U.S. – not so much in the rest of the world. Amazon influences what and how people purchase all goods from books to vacuum cleaners. I almost never buy from Amazon – and if I do it’s only ebooks that I can’t get from any other online retailer. Personally, I prefer to buy goods from local retailers to support our local economy, and were possible I buy things that are made in my country for the same reason.
I would say Amazon, especially in the U.S. – not so much in the rest of the world. Amazon influences what and how people purchase all goods from books to vacuum cleaners. I almost never buy from Amazon – and if I do it’s only ebooks that I can’t get from any other online retailer. Personally, I prefer to buy goods from local retailers to support our local economy, and were possible I buy things that are made in my country for the same reason.
I would say Amazon, especially in the U.S. – not so much in the rest of the world. Amazon influences what and how people purchase all goods from books to vacuum cleaners. I almost never buy from Amazon – and if I do it’s only ebooks that I can’t get from any other online retailer. Personally, I prefer to buy goods from local retailers to support our local economy, and were possible I buy things that are made in my country for the same reason.
I’m with you on that, Pat. I don’t have Alexa (thank you, but I can look up the weather or turn on my lights myself!) or any of the surveillance stuff you mention. I find the home stuff really creepy . . .and the GPS tracking a little unsettling, too. It’s a more “convenient” world, but a scarier one, too.
I’m with you on that, Pat. I don’t have Alexa (thank you, but I can look up the weather or turn on my lights myself!) or any of the surveillance stuff you mention. I find the home stuff really creepy . . .and the GPS tracking a little unsettling, too. It’s a more “convenient” world, but a scarier one, too.
I’m with you on that, Pat. I don’t have Alexa (thank you, but I can look up the weather or turn on my lights myself!) or any of the surveillance stuff you mention. I find the home stuff really creepy . . .and the GPS tracking a little unsettling, too. It’s a more “convenient” world, but a scarier one, too.
I’m with you on that, Pat. I don’t have Alexa (thank you, but I can look up the weather or turn on my lights myself!) or any of the surveillance stuff you mention. I find the home stuff really creepy . . .and the GPS tracking a little unsettling, too. It’s a more “convenient” world, but a scarier one, too.
I’m with you on that, Pat. I don’t have Alexa (thank you, but I can look up the weather or turn on my lights myself!) or any of the surveillance stuff you mention. I find the home stuff really creepy . . .and the GPS tracking a little unsettling, too. It’s a more “convenient” world, but a scarier one, too.
Jan, perhaps the pandemic has encouraged more people to think like you and realize that supporting local businesses is crucial to maintaining communities. I worry that the trend to living online is really affecting people’s ability to interact, and their empathy for “real” people and situations. A lot of things are scary these days.
Jan, perhaps the pandemic has encouraged more people to think like you and realize that supporting local businesses is crucial to maintaining communities. I worry that the trend to living online is really affecting people’s ability to interact, and their empathy for “real” people and situations. A lot of things are scary these days.
Jan, perhaps the pandemic has encouraged more people to think like you and realize that supporting local businesses is crucial to maintaining communities. I worry that the trend to living online is really affecting people’s ability to interact, and their empathy for “real” people and situations. A lot of things are scary these days.
Jan, perhaps the pandemic has encouraged more people to think like you and realize that supporting local businesses is crucial to maintaining communities. I worry that the trend to living online is really affecting people’s ability to interact, and their empathy for “real” people and situations. A lot of things are scary these days.
Jan, perhaps the pandemic has encouraged more people to think like you and realize that supporting local businesses is crucial to maintaining communities. I worry that the trend to living online is really affecting people’s ability to interact, and their empathy for “real” people and situations. A lot of things are scary these days.
We do buy from Amazon, but as little as possible. Besides the eBooks Jan mentioned, we buy otc medicines that we cannot find at home, but very little else. And like those above iti’s because the near monopoly scares me.
And I am on Facbook — again because of the near monopoly, but if any of you follow my general posts there I fight them all the time. Facebook does’t give a tiker’s dam about the people; only about their profit, including the information they gather and sell to others.
We do buy from Amazon, but as little as possible. Besides the eBooks Jan mentioned, we buy otc medicines that we cannot find at home, but very little else. And like those above iti’s because the near monopoly scares me.
And I am on Facbook — again because of the near monopoly, but if any of you follow my general posts there I fight them all the time. Facebook does’t give a tiker’s dam about the people; only about their profit, including the information they gather and sell to others.
We do buy from Amazon, but as little as possible. Besides the eBooks Jan mentioned, we buy otc medicines that we cannot find at home, but very little else. And like those above iti’s because the near monopoly scares me.
And I am on Facbook — again because of the near monopoly, but if any of you follow my general posts there I fight them all the time. Facebook does’t give a tiker’s dam about the people; only about their profit, including the information they gather and sell to others.
We do buy from Amazon, but as little as possible. Besides the eBooks Jan mentioned, we buy otc medicines that we cannot find at home, but very little else. And like those above iti’s because the near monopoly scares me.
And I am on Facbook — again because of the near monopoly, but if any of you follow my general posts there I fight them all the time. Facebook does’t give a tiker’s dam about the people; only about their profit, including the information they gather and sell to others.
We do buy from Amazon, but as little as possible. Besides the eBooks Jan mentioned, we buy otc medicines that we cannot find at home, but very little else. And like those above iti’s because the near monopoly scares me.
And I am on Facbook — again because of the near monopoly, but if any of you follow my general posts there I fight them all the time. Facebook does’t give a tiker’s dam about the people; only about their profit, including the information they gather and sell to others.
I am concerned about Facebook. I think the young folks have mostly left it, it’s just us old-timers there! But it bothers me when people who are know are educated and intelligent will still thoughtlessly share things without checking if they’re true.
I don’t like Amazon’s monopoly either. I buy very little from them except books. Lots and lots of e-books. It’s just so easy to get everything from one place, so you can recreate your library even if you lose your reading device.
Very interesting post about the East India Company, I had not realized the extent of their power. The only time
I am concerned about Facebook. I think the young folks have mostly left it, it’s just us old-timers there! But it bothers me when people who are know are educated and intelligent will still thoughtlessly share things without checking if they’re true.
I don’t like Amazon’s monopoly either. I buy very little from them except books. Lots and lots of e-books. It’s just so easy to get everything from one place, so you can recreate your library even if you lose your reading device.
Very interesting post about the East India Company, I had not realized the extent of their power. The only time
I am concerned about Facebook. I think the young folks have mostly left it, it’s just us old-timers there! But it bothers me when people who are know are educated and intelligent will still thoughtlessly share things without checking if they’re true.
I don’t like Amazon’s monopoly either. I buy very little from them except books. Lots and lots of e-books. It’s just so easy to get everything from one place, so you can recreate your library even if you lose your reading device.
Very interesting post about the East India Company, I had not realized the extent of their power. The only time
I am concerned about Facebook. I think the young folks have mostly left it, it’s just us old-timers there! But it bothers me when people who are know are educated and intelligent will still thoughtlessly share things without checking if they’re true.
I don’t like Amazon’s monopoly either. I buy very little from them except books. Lots and lots of e-books. It’s just so easy to get everything from one place, so you can recreate your library even if you lose your reading device.
Very interesting post about the East India Company, I had not realized the extent of their power. The only time
I am concerned about Facebook. I think the young folks have mostly left it, it’s just us old-timers there! But it bothers me when people who are know are educated and intelligent will still thoughtlessly share things without checking if they’re true.
I don’t like Amazon’s monopoly either. I buy very little from them except books. Lots and lots of e-books. It’s just so easy to get everything from one place, so you can recreate your library even if you lose your reading device.
Very interesting post about the East India Company, I had not realized the extent of their power. The only time
Sue, I buy more than I should on Amazon_I’m aware they make it seductive. Which is why it’s dangerous. I know it strangles local businesses, which in bad for our communities. I’m making a conscious effort to do more local shopping.
And I hear on social media. I’m really unhappy with their their practices—especially Facebook. I feel I have to have an author presence, but I’m very careful in how I interact.
Sue, I buy more than I should on Amazon_I’m aware they make it seductive. Which is why it’s dangerous. I know it strangles local businesses, which in bad for our communities. I’m making a conscious effort to do more local shopping.
And I hear on social media. I’m really unhappy with their their practices—especially Facebook. I feel I have to have an author presence, but I’m very careful in how I interact.
Sue, I buy more than I should on Amazon_I’m aware they make it seductive. Which is why it’s dangerous. I know it strangles local businesses, which in bad for our communities. I’m making a conscious effort to do more local shopping.
And I hear on social media. I’m really unhappy with their their practices—especially Facebook. I feel I have to have an author presence, but I’m very careful in how I interact.
Sue, I buy more than I should on Amazon_I’m aware they make it seductive. Which is why it’s dangerous. I know it strangles local businesses, which in bad for our communities. I’m making a conscious effort to do more local shopping.
And I hear on social media. I’m really unhappy with their their practices—especially Facebook. I feel I have to have an author presence, but I’m very careful in how I interact.
Sue, I buy more than I should on Amazon_I’m aware they make it seductive. Which is why it’s dangerous. I know it strangles local businesses, which in bad for our communities. I’m making a conscious effort to do more local shopping.
And I hear on social media. I’m really unhappy with their their practices—especially Facebook. I feel I have to have an author presence, but I’m very careful in how I interact.
Karin, the EIC was the scary behemoth of their day. Very powerful, and had huge influence in politics because of their economic might.
Yes, facebook is horrible about spreading untruths and crazy conspiracy theories. To me, it’s very dangerous.. And I think you’re right—the young people have other ways of communicating with each other.
Karin, the EIC was the scary behemoth of their day. Very powerful, and had huge influence in politics because of their economic might.
Yes, facebook is horrible about spreading untruths and crazy conspiracy theories. To me, it’s very dangerous.. And I think you’re right—the young people have other ways of communicating with each other.
Karin, the EIC was the scary behemoth of their day. Very powerful, and had huge influence in politics because of their economic might.
Yes, facebook is horrible about spreading untruths and crazy conspiracy theories. To me, it’s very dangerous.. And I think you’re right—the young people have other ways of communicating with each other.
Karin, the EIC was the scary behemoth of their day. Very powerful, and had huge influence in politics because of their economic might.
Yes, facebook is horrible about spreading untruths and crazy conspiracy theories. To me, it’s very dangerous.. And I think you’re right—the young people have other ways of communicating with each other.
Karin, the EIC was the scary behemoth of their day. Very powerful, and had huge influence in politics because of their economic might.
Yes, facebook is horrible about spreading untruths and crazy conspiracy theories. To me, it’s very dangerous.. And I think you’re right—the young people have other ways of communicating with each other.
What a terrific post, and I thank you.
For me, it is a dead heat between Facebook, Amazon and Google.
Just as others have expressed, we seem to be losing the ability to learn on our own. Why bother when there are so many places that are willing to tell me what to think?
I shop on Amazon, for books and over the counter meds for me and my dog. I use DuckDuckGo to search. And after I began getting messages on Facebook that were supposed to be from my relatives who were trapped in Europe, I gave up Facebook. (None of my relatives were trapped anywhere, except maybe in front of the TV watching baseball).
What is really frightening about that — over 10 years after I was no longer using Facebook, and had closed my account, I was getting messages telling me people on Facebook were trying to be my friend.
And I don’t even watch zombie films.
I hope everyone is taking care and staying well.
What a terrific post, and I thank you.
For me, it is a dead heat between Facebook, Amazon and Google.
Just as others have expressed, we seem to be losing the ability to learn on our own. Why bother when there are so many places that are willing to tell me what to think?
I shop on Amazon, for books and over the counter meds for me and my dog. I use DuckDuckGo to search. And after I began getting messages on Facebook that were supposed to be from my relatives who were trapped in Europe, I gave up Facebook. (None of my relatives were trapped anywhere, except maybe in front of the TV watching baseball).
What is really frightening about that — over 10 years after I was no longer using Facebook, and had closed my account, I was getting messages telling me people on Facebook were trying to be my friend.
And I don’t even watch zombie films.
I hope everyone is taking care and staying well.
What a terrific post, and I thank you.
For me, it is a dead heat between Facebook, Amazon and Google.
Just as others have expressed, we seem to be losing the ability to learn on our own. Why bother when there are so many places that are willing to tell me what to think?
I shop on Amazon, for books and over the counter meds for me and my dog. I use DuckDuckGo to search. And after I began getting messages on Facebook that were supposed to be from my relatives who were trapped in Europe, I gave up Facebook. (None of my relatives were trapped anywhere, except maybe in front of the TV watching baseball).
What is really frightening about that — over 10 years after I was no longer using Facebook, and had closed my account, I was getting messages telling me people on Facebook were trying to be my friend.
And I don’t even watch zombie films.
I hope everyone is taking care and staying well.
What a terrific post, and I thank you.
For me, it is a dead heat between Facebook, Amazon and Google.
Just as others have expressed, we seem to be losing the ability to learn on our own. Why bother when there are so many places that are willing to tell me what to think?
I shop on Amazon, for books and over the counter meds for me and my dog. I use DuckDuckGo to search. And after I began getting messages on Facebook that were supposed to be from my relatives who were trapped in Europe, I gave up Facebook. (None of my relatives were trapped anywhere, except maybe in front of the TV watching baseball).
What is really frightening about that — over 10 years after I was no longer using Facebook, and had closed my account, I was getting messages telling me people on Facebook were trying to be my friend.
And I don’t even watch zombie films.
I hope everyone is taking care and staying well.
What a terrific post, and I thank you.
For me, it is a dead heat between Facebook, Amazon and Google.
Just as others have expressed, we seem to be losing the ability to learn on our own. Why bother when there are so many places that are willing to tell me what to think?
I shop on Amazon, for books and over the counter meds for me and my dog. I use DuckDuckGo to search. And after I began getting messages on Facebook that were supposed to be from my relatives who were trapped in Europe, I gave up Facebook. (None of my relatives were trapped anywhere, except maybe in front of the TV watching baseball).
What is really frightening about that — over 10 years after I was no longer using Facebook, and had closed my account, I was getting messages telling me people on Facebook were trying to be my friend.
And I don’t even watch zombie films.
I hope everyone is taking care and staying well.
What a fascinating post, Andrea! I’m another who had no idea of the power that EIC wielded.
There are several companies that concern me, so I won’t name one. It’s not quite what you are asking, but …. While I love the internet and it’s ability to allow me, for example, to chat in real-time with my daughter in Seoul, I lament the way it allows people to prey on others via scams and the way it provides a place for some to foment hate.
What a fascinating post, Andrea! I’m another who had no idea of the power that EIC wielded.
There are several companies that concern me, so I won’t name one. It’s not quite what you are asking, but …. While I love the internet and it’s ability to allow me, for example, to chat in real-time with my daughter in Seoul, I lament the way it allows people to prey on others via scams and the way it provides a place for some to foment hate.
What a fascinating post, Andrea! I’m another who had no idea of the power that EIC wielded.
There are several companies that concern me, so I won’t name one. It’s not quite what you are asking, but …. While I love the internet and it’s ability to allow me, for example, to chat in real-time with my daughter in Seoul, I lament the way it allows people to prey on others via scams and the way it provides a place for some to foment hate.
What a fascinating post, Andrea! I’m another who had no idea of the power that EIC wielded.
There are several companies that concern me, so I won’t name one. It’s not quite what you are asking, but …. While I love the internet and it’s ability to allow me, for example, to chat in real-time with my daughter in Seoul, I lament the way it allows people to prey on others via scams and the way it provides a place for some to foment hate.
What a fascinating post, Andrea! I’m another who had no idea of the power that EIC wielded.
There are several companies that concern me, so I won’t name one. It’s not quite what you are asking, but …. While I love the internet and it’s ability to allow me, for example, to chat in real-time with my daughter in Seoul, I lament the way it allows people to prey on others via scams and the way it provides a place for some to foment hate.
Annette, You make a very goood point about people thinking for themselves. One reason I refuse to get involved in social media is it’s such a passive activity to sit there and look at what strangers are thinking and doing. I mean, —do you REALLY care someone is eating for breakfast! Too much information—and boring, useless information at that. Sigh.
(love the trapped in front of the TV watching baseball! Ha, ha, ha!)
Annette, You make a very goood point about people thinking for themselves. One reason I refuse to get involved in social media is it’s such a passive activity to sit there and look at what strangers are thinking and doing. I mean, —do you REALLY care someone is eating for breakfast! Too much information—and boring, useless information at that. Sigh.
(love the trapped in front of the TV watching baseball! Ha, ha, ha!)
Annette, You make a very goood point about people thinking for themselves. One reason I refuse to get involved in social media is it’s such a passive activity to sit there and look at what strangers are thinking and doing. I mean, —do you REALLY care someone is eating for breakfast! Too much information—and boring, useless information at that. Sigh.
(love the trapped in front of the TV watching baseball! Ha, ha, ha!)
Annette, You make a very goood point about people thinking for themselves. One reason I refuse to get involved in social media is it’s such a passive activity to sit there and look at what strangers are thinking and doing. I mean, —do you REALLY care someone is eating for breakfast! Too much information—and boring, useless information at that. Sigh.
(love the trapped in front of the TV watching baseball! Ha, ha, ha!)
Annette, You make a very goood point about people thinking for themselves. One reason I refuse to get involved in social media is it’s such a passive activity to sit there and look at what strangers are thinking and doing. I mean, —do you REALLY care someone is eating for breakfast! Too much information—and boring, useless information at that. Sigh.
(love the trapped in front of the TV watching baseball! Ha, ha, ha!)
Glad you enjoyed the post, Kareni. Yes, the EIC was a very formidable global power. Frighteningly powerful!
There’s much good to the internet. I’ve loved my zoom get-togethers with good friends during the pandemic, I get to research in fabulous museums around the world. But the scams, the deliberate agitation and hate mongering is so dangerous. At some point, the world is going to have to reckon with it.
Glad you enjoyed the post, Kareni. Yes, the EIC was a very formidable global power. Frighteningly powerful!
There’s much good to the internet. I’ve loved my zoom get-togethers with good friends during the pandemic, I get to research in fabulous museums around the world. But the scams, the deliberate agitation and hate mongering is so dangerous. At some point, the world is going to have to reckon with it.
Glad you enjoyed the post, Kareni. Yes, the EIC was a very formidable global power. Frighteningly powerful!
There’s much good to the internet. I’ve loved my zoom get-togethers with good friends during the pandemic, I get to research in fabulous museums around the world. But the scams, the deliberate agitation and hate mongering is so dangerous. At some point, the world is going to have to reckon with it.
Glad you enjoyed the post, Kareni. Yes, the EIC was a very formidable global power. Frighteningly powerful!
There’s much good to the internet. I’ve loved my zoom get-togethers with good friends during the pandemic, I get to research in fabulous museums around the world. But the scams, the deliberate agitation and hate mongering is so dangerous. At some point, the world is going to have to reckon with it.
Glad you enjoyed the post, Kareni. Yes, the EIC was a very formidable global power. Frighteningly powerful!
There’s much good to the internet. I’ve loved my zoom get-togethers with good friends during the pandemic, I get to research in fabulous museums around the world. But the scams, the deliberate agitation and hate mongering is so dangerous. At some point, the world is going to have to reckon with it.
Loved the information on the East India Company – I knew that they had way too much power. The comments are all great!
I have been trying to pre-order the book; it shows on Amazon but says it is not currently available. There is nothing on Kobo which is where I would like to purchase it. Will Murder at Queen’s Landing be available on Kobo?
Loved the information on the East India Company – I knew that they had way too much power. The comments are all great!
I have been trying to pre-order the book; it shows on Amazon but says it is not currently available. There is nothing on Kobo which is where I would like to purchase it. Will Murder at Queen’s Landing be available on Kobo?
Loved the information on the East India Company – I knew that they had way too much power. The comments are all great!
I have been trying to pre-order the book; it shows on Amazon but says it is not currently available. There is nothing on Kobo which is where I would like to purchase it. Will Murder at Queen’s Landing be available on Kobo?
Loved the information on the East India Company – I knew that they had way too much power. The comments are all great!
I have been trying to pre-order the book; it shows on Amazon but says it is not currently available. There is nothing on Kobo which is where I would like to purchase it. Will Murder at Queen’s Landing be available on Kobo?
Loved the information on the East India Company – I knew that they had way too much power. The comments are all great!
I have been trying to pre-order the book; it shows on Amazon but says it is not currently available. There is nothing on Kobo which is where I would like to purchase it. Will Murder at Queen’s Landing be available on Kobo?
I had to look up FANGs so I’m posting it here in case others hadn’t heard the term before: In finance, the acronym “FANG” refers to the stocks of four prominent American technology companies: Facebook (F), Amazon (A), Netflix (N), and Google (G). In 2017, the company Apple (A) was also added, causing the acronym to be rewritten as “FAANG.”
Fascinating post indeed, Andrea and I’m enjoying the discussion in the comment stream as well. Quantum, one of the subjects I studied at uni was “Decolonisation and Development” and it was fascinating as well. The more things change . . .
When I was a teenager and started reading science fiction I remember one series (might be Dune, but that might be quite wrong) that made me understand the process of taking control of another country (or planet), and setting up puppet rulers, etc. It was fascinating, and then when I started learning more history, I could see the parallels.
I had to look up FANGs so I’m posting it here in case others hadn’t heard the term before: In finance, the acronym “FANG” refers to the stocks of four prominent American technology companies: Facebook (F), Amazon (A), Netflix (N), and Google (G). In 2017, the company Apple (A) was also added, causing the acronym to be rewritten as “FAANG.”
Fascinating post indeed, Andrea and I’m enjoying the discussion in the comment stream as well. Quantum, one of the subjects I studied at uni was “Decolonisation and Development” and it was fascinating as well. The more things change . . .
When I was a teenager and started reading science fiction I remember one series (might be Dune, but that might be quite wrong) that made me understand the process of taking control of another country (or planet), and setting up puppet rulers, etc. It was fascinating, and then when I started learning more history, I could see the parallels.
I had to look up FANGs so I’m posting it here in case others hadn’t heard the term before: In finance, the acronym “FANG” refers to the stocks of four prominent American technology companies: Facebook (F), Amazon (A), Netflix (N), and Google (G). In 2017, the company Apple (A) was also added, causing the acronym to be rewritten as “FAANG.”
Fascinating post indeed, Andrea and I’m enjoying the discussion in the comment stream as well. Quantum, one of the subjects I studied at uni was “Decolonisation and Development” and it was fascinating as well. The more things change . . .
When I was a teenager and started reading science fiction I remember one series (might be Dune, but that might be quite wrong) that made me understand the process of taking control of another country (or planet), and setting up puppet rulers, etc. It was fascinating, and then when I started learning more history, I could see the parallels.
I had to look up FANGs so I’m posting it here in case others hadn’t heard the term before: In finance, the acronym “FANG” refers to the stocks of four prominent American technology companies: Facebook (F), Amazon (A), Netflix (N), and Google (G). In 2017, the company Apple (A) was also added, causing the acronym to be rewritten as “FAANG.”
Fascinating post indeed, Andrea and I’m enjoying the discussion in the comment stream as well. Quantum, one of the subjects I studied at uni was “Decolonisation and Development” and it was fascinating as well. The more things change . . .
When I was a teenager and started reading science fiction I remember one series (might be Dune, but that might be quite wrong) that made me understand the process of taking control of another country (or planet), and setting up puppet rulers, etc. It was fascinating, and then when I started learning more history, I could see the parallels.
I had to look up FANGs so I’m posting it here in case others hadn’t heard the term before: In finance, the acronym “FANG” refers to the stocks of four prominent American technology companies: Facebook (F), Amazon (A), Netflix (N), and Google (G). In 2017, the company Apple (A) was also added, causing the acronym to be rewritten as “FAANG.”
Fascinating post indeed, Andrea and I’m enjoying the discussion in the comment stream as well. Quantum, one of the subjects I studied at uni was “Decolonisation and Development” and it was fascinating as well. The more things change . . .
When I was a teenager and started reading science fiction I remember one series (might be Dune, but that might be quite wrong) that made me understand the process of taking control of another country (or planet), and setting up puppet rulers, etc. It was fascinating, and then when I started learning more history, I could see the parallels.
Great post, Andrea – I love reading about the EIC! It was a fascinating organisation and so powerful. It must have seemed like a fantastic opportunity for young men who were allowed to join, but at the same time surviving in India and elsewhere wasn’t easy for Europeans. One of my ancestors fought in the same battles as Sharpe (shame he’s not real LOL), I’ve seen the muster rolls from Srirangapatnam and Trichinopoly. And I love Regency novels with “nabobs” – men who became incredibly rich in India. They always seem to have a wonderful disregard for the conventions, which spices up those stories!
Great post, Andrea – I love reading about the EIC! It was a fascinating organisation and so powerful. It must have seemed like a fantastic opportunity for young men who were allowed to join, but at the same time surviving in India and elsewhere wasn’t easy for Europeans. One of my ancestors fought in the same battles as Sharpe (shame he’s not real LOL), I’ve seen the muster rolls from Srirangapatnam and Trichinopoly. And I love Regency novels with “nabobs” – men who became incredibly rich in India. They always seem to have a wonderful disregard for the conventions, which spices up those stories!
Great post, Andrea – I love reading about the EIC! It was a fascinating organisation and so powerful. It must have seemed like a fantastic opportunity for young men who were allowed to join, but at the same time surviving in India and elsewhere wasn’t easy for Europeans. One of my ancestors fought in the same battles as Sharpe (shame he’s not real LOL), I’ve seen the muster rolls from Srirangapatnam and Trichinopoly. And I love Regency novels with “nabobs” – men who became incredibly rich in India. They always seem to have a wonderful disregard for the conventions, which spices up those stories!
Great post, Andrea – I love reading about the EIC! It was a fascinating organisation and so powerful. It must have seemed like a fantastic opportunity for young men who were allowed to join, but at the same time surviving in India and elsewhere wasn’t easy for Europeans. One of my ancestors fought in the same battles as Sharpe (shame he’s not real LOL), I’ve seen the muster rolls from Srirangapatnam and Trichinopoly. And I love Regency novels with “nabobs” – men who became incredibly rich in India. They always seem to have a wonderful disregard for the conventions, which spices up those stories!
Great post, Andrea – I love reading about the EIC! It was a fascinating organisation and so powerful. It must have seemed like a fantastic opportunity for young men who were allowed to join, but at the same time surviving in India and elsewhere wasn’t easy for Europeans. One of my ancestors fought in the same battles as Sharpe (shame he’s not real LOL), I’ve seen the muster rolls from Srirangapatnam and Trichinopoly. And I love Regency novels with “nabobs” – men who became incredibly rich in India. They always seem to have a wonderful disregard for the conventions, which spices up those stories!
Jenny, I’m really enjoying the comments, too!
I’m so sorry you’re having trouble with pre-ordering Murder on Queen’s Landing. It’s definitely showing up as available on both Amazon and Kobo when I check. Are you outside the U. S. Maybe release dates are a little different in other territories? Alas, I have absolutely no control on how my publisher sets the release schedule. Hopefully you were just experiencing a temporary glitch.
Jenny, I’m really enjoying the comments, too!
I’m so sorry you’re having trouble with pre-ordering Murder on Queen’s Landing. It’s definitely showing up as available on both Amazon and Kobo when I check. Are you outside the U. S. Maybe release dates are a little different in other territories? Alas, I have absolutely no control on how my publisher sets the release schedule. Hopefully you were just experiencing a temporary glitch.
Jenny, I’m really enjoying the comments, too!
I’m so sorry you’re having trouble with pre-ordering Murder on Queen’s Landing. It’s definitely showing up as available on both Amazon and Kobo when I check. Are you outside the U. S. Maybe release dates are a little different in other territories? Alas, I have absolutely no control on how my publisher sets the release schedule. Hopefully you were just experiencing a temporary glitch.
Jenny, I’m really enjoying the comments, too!
I’m so sorry you’re having trouble with pre-ordering Murder on Queen’s Landing. It’s definitely showing up as available on both Amazon and Kobo when I check. Are you outside the U. S. Maybe release dates are a little different in other territories? Alas, I have absolutely no control on how my publisher sets the release schedule. Hopefully you were just experiencing a temporary glitch.
Jenny, I’m really enjoying the comments, too!
I’m so sorry you’re having trouble with pre-ordering Murder on Queen’s Landing. It’s definitely showing up as available on both Amazon and Kobo when I check. Are you outside the U. S. Maybe release dates are a little different in other territories? Alas, I have absolutely no control on how my publisher sets the release schedule. Hopefully you were just experiencing a temporary glitch.
Christina, how fascinating that you had an ancestor over there—though it must have been a very difficult existence. As you say, it was a challenging place for Europeans, what with the very different culture, the brutal heat and new diseases.
I find the “nabobs” very interesting too. The more I read, the more it became apparent that an ambitious, clever young man of modest birth could become very successful, since it was more of a “Wild West” ( Wild East!) atmosphere. Definitely not for the faint of heart!
Christina, how fascinating that you had an ancestor over there—though it must have been a very difficult existence. As you say, it was a challenging place for Europeans, what with the very different culture, the brutal heat and new diseases.
I find the “nabobs” very interesting too. The more I read, the more it became apparent that an ambitious, clever young man of modest birth could become very successful, since it was more of a “Wild West” ( Wild East!) atmosphere. Definitely not for the faint of heart!
Christina, how fascinating that you had an ancestor over there—though it must have been a very difficult existence. As you say, it was a challenging place for Europeans, what with the very different culture, the brutal heat and new diseases.
I find the “nabobs” very interesting too. The more I read, the more it became apparent that an ambitious, clever young man of modest birth could become very successful, since it was more of a “Wild West” ( Wild East!) atmosphere. Definitely not for the faint of heart!
Christina, how fascinating that you had an ancestor over there—though it must have been a very difficult existence. As you say, it was a challenging place for Europeans, what with the very different culture, the brutal heat and new diseases.
I find the “nabobs” very interesting too. The more I read, the more it became apparent that an ambitious, clever young man of modest birth could become very successful, since it was more of a “Wild West” ( Wild East!) atmosphere. Definitely not for the faint of heart!
Christina, how fascinating that you had an ancestor over there—though it must have been a very difficult existence. As you say, it was a challenging place for Europeans, what with the very different culture, the brutal heat and new diseases.
I find the “nabobs” very interesting too. The more I read, the more it became apparent that an ambitious, clever young man of modest birth could become very successful, since it was more of a “Wild West” ( Wild East!) atmosphere. Definitely not for the faint of heart!
Isn’t that a great acronym, Anne! Ouch!
I’m loving the comments, too. As I read more and more about the EIC, the parallel to Amazon, et. al. really struck me. because of their economic clout, they were a huge force in all aspects of life, including politics. Most Americans probably don’t realize that the EIC monopoly on the tea trade, and the taxes Britain put on tea to help recoup costs of the Seven Years War, was a cause of the Boston Tea Party, and our American Revolution!
It also made me think of how history does repeat itself. We sometimes tend to think the challenges we face are unique. But most of them have been around before, just dressed in different guises.
Isn’t that a great acronym, Anne! Ouch!
I’m loving the comments, too. As I read more and more about the EIC, the parallel to Amazon, et. al. really struck me. because of their economic clout, they were a huge force in all aspects of life, including politics. Most Americans probably don’t realize that the EIC monopoly on the tea trade, and the taxes Britain put on tea to help recoup costs of the Seven Years War, was a cause of the Boston Tea Party, and our American Revolution!
It also made me think of how history does repeat itself. We sometimes tend to think the challenges we face are unique. But most of them have been around before, just dressed in different guises.
Isn’t that a great acronym, Anne! Ouch!
I’m loving the comments, too. As I read more and more about the EIC, the parallel to Amazon, et. al. really struck me. because of their economic clout, they were a huge force in all aspects of life, including politics. Most Americans probably don’t realize that the EIC monopoly on the tea trade, and the taxes Britain put on tea to help recoup costs of the Seven Years War, was a cause of the Boston Tea Party, and our American Revolution!
It also made me think of how history does repeat itself. We sometimes tend to think the challenges we face are unique. But most of them have been around before, just dressed in different guises.
Isn’t that a great acronym, Anne! Ouch!
I’m loving the comments, too. As I read more and more about the EIC, the parallel to Amazon, et. al. really struck me. because of their economic clout, they were a huge force in all aspects of life, including politics. Most Americans probably don’t realize that the EIC monopoly on the tea trade, and the taxes Britain put on tea to help recoup costs of the Seven Years War, was a cause of the Boston Tea Party, and our American Revolution!
It also made me think of how history does repeat itself. We sometimes tend to think the challenges we face are unique. But most of them have been around before, just dressed in different guises.
Isn’t that a great acronym, Anne! Ouch!
I’m loving the comments, too. As I read more and more about the EIC, the parallel to Amazon, et. al. really struck me. because of their economic clout, they were a huge force in all aspects of life, including politics. Most Americans probably don’t realize that the EIC monopoly on the tea trade, and the taxes Britain put on tea to help recoup costs of the Seven Years War, was a cause of the Boston Tea Party, and our American Revolution!
It also made me think of how history does repeat itself. We sometimes tend to think the challenges we face are unique. But most of them have been around before, just dressed in different guises.