Manchester Historian Issue 26

WOMEN IN HISTORY WOMEN’S MARCH A BRIEF HISTORY OF AMERICAN WOMEN ABOLITION OF WIDOW IMMOLATION IN INDIA

ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

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Behind every story… There is History

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

What’s Inside HISTORY IN THE HEADLINES Women’s March in January ................................................................ 4 IS Battle: As Iraqi Forces Drive Back the IS Forces ............................... 5 Gerald Kaufman: A Biography ............................................................ 6 The Oscars .......................................................................................... 6 A History of Space Exploration ........................................................... 7

WOMEN IN HISTORY

A Brief History of Modern American Women ......................................8 Abolition of Widow Immolation in India.............................................9 Joan of Arc and the Hundred Years’ War............................................10 Reclaim the Night.............................................................................. 11 Edith Cavell........................................................................................11

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HISTORY YOU SHOULD KNOW

100 Years Since the Russian Revolution............................................12 Cleopatra............................................................................................13 St. Patrick’s Day...................................................................................13 The Spanish Armada...........................................................................14 Film in History ...................................................................................15 Fidel Castro: A Biography....................................................................15 Post-War Japan...................................................................................16 Heroines in Greek Mythology.............................................................17 History of the Māori People................................................................18 Richard III...........................................................................................18

Editors

Araddhna Patel Will Bain

Head of Design

Olivia Mansfield

Head of Copy - Editing

Dan O’Byrne

Genghis Khan and the Largest Empire in History...............................19

Head of Marketing

Tom Denman

Head of Online

Orsolya Plesz

Design Team

Ollie Potter Lauren Dawes Ella Comben Patrick Marshall Natalie Branca

Copy - Editing Team

Shannon Winterbone Holly Hark Megan Cunliffe Tony Scott Caitlin Hughes Ben Ryan Steven Bennett Kate McCoubrey James Blower

HISTORY UPDATES

What’s Going on Around Manchester .............................................. 20 History Society Update ..................................................................... 21 Peer Mentoring Scheme .................................................................. 21 History Netball ................................................................................. 22 History FC .........................................................................................22 Women in Media Conference Review .............................................. 23 Your Careers Update......................................................................... 23

Marketing Team Online Team

Front Cover photo via The Huffington Post

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

A Note from the Editors With only a few weeks to go until the Easter holidays, we’re all trying to keep our heads up and smile through the pain of writing a million essays. The weather should be getting better, even though it isn’t really, but at least it doesn’t get dark at three o’clock in the afternoon! Get a cup of something hot, sit down, and relax whilst enjoying this issue.

Having celebrated International Women’s Day recently, we decided to focus this issue on women throughout history.

Our articles cover periods when significant things happened, such as the abolition of sati, or widow immolation, in India, and the courageous involvement of Joan of Arc in the Hundred Years War. We have also focussed on women in history like Edith Cavell, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Michelle Obama.

Cleopatra, and Richard III to the Russian Revolution, the Spanish Armada, and film in history.

Don’t forget to check out the final pages – we’ve got everything you need to know about the History department for the past few and upcoming months, including a section on the activities happening around Manchester, a History Society update, the latest news about our fabulous netball and football teams, a review of the Women In Media conference, and a peer mentoring and careers update.

When you’re knocked down, get right back up and never listen to anyone who says you can’t or shouldn’t go on.”

– Hillary Clinton

Even though we are only in the third month of 2017, there have already been some great and not-so-great issues going on worldwide. We have a selection on articles on the Women’s March this year, the IS battle, the Oscars, and a history of space exploration.

Our ‘History You Should Know’ section is full to the brim with articles ranging all the way from a history of the Māori people,

We thoroughly hope you enjoy reading these articles as much as we loved editing them. Special thanks must go to our contributors, who repeatedly write interesting and thought-provoking articles. There is only one more issue to go of this academic year, so please try and get involved with it! Like our Facebook page ‘The Manchester Historian’ to stay updated or email us at manchesterhistorian@gmail.com for more information. You can find all of our other social media handles on the back cover.

- Araddhna and Will

Photo via The University of Manchester @TheMcrHistorian

The Manchester Christmas Markets: Image © 2015 latimes.com Credit Manchester Evening News.

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

HISTORY IN THE HEADLINES Women’s March in January In the wake of Donald Trump’s inauguration, thousands of women across America and the UK took up their signs and expressed their desire for change at the Women’s March on Washington. Marching on Washington is not a newly invented tactic for protest, as it was widely exhibited through the Civil Rights Movement in America. The notion was first initiated by Phillip Randolph in 1941, aiming to demand equal working rights in the National Defence for African Americans during the war. More notably, Dr King let America know he had a dream in 1963 during the March on Washington, and this event has been considered the pivotal moment for the Civil Rights Movement in America.

With all this in mind, initiating a March on Washington for a cause implicates its mass significance and urgency. On 20 January 2017, the world watched as Donald Trump was sworn in as the President of the United States. On 21 January 2017, a series of Women’s Marches occurred in colossal numbers to express their disgust for Trump, and their fight for women’s rights against sexual assault, and other issues such as reproductive rights. To many, this asserted one thing; a man whose view on women depended on their aesthetic appearance, and threatens the very basis of social equality for all can still go on to attain one of the most hegemonic positions in the world.

Women have faced adversity throughout their lives. As time goes on, more cracks begin to appear, exposing more issues in which we must tackle with to attain our level position on the podium alongside our male counterpart. The woman’s struggle transcends the history books. The struggle adapts and evolves over time. Trump’s Presidency perhaps feels like two steps backward. Yet Trump’s viewpoint is not rare, even today.

On the 3 March, a Polish MEP proclaimed during a debate on gender pay in the European Parliament, that ‘Since women are ‘smaller, weaker and less intelligent’ than men they rightfully should earn less.’ Trump’s administration condemns abortion, and planned parenthood, adopting a ‘pro-life’ stance. Alongside Trump’s politics, his infamous vulgarity sets a precedent for how American women should be treated, spoken right from the global representative of the US. Sexual assault is an epidemic in the US, and this attitude only propagates outdated views held in certain states of America, such as Oklahoma, who stunned local prosecutors with a declaration in April 2016 that state law doesn’t criminalize oral sex with a victim who is completely unconscious.

This idea is simultaneously insulting and belittling, and deprives women of agency concerning their own bodies. Aside from these demeaning attitudes to women, Trump threatens the very essence of humanity. His attitude towards immigrants is that of ignorance, racism, and a blatant neglect for human life, proving highly contradictory toward his previously stated pro-life

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Kate McCoubrey

stance. What is most worrying about Donald Trump’s ideology is not the presidents maintaining of these views himself, but that 46.7 percent of America agree with him.

Many have compared the current climate to that of Europe in the 1930s to the late 1940s an era which proved harrowing. Whilst we swore it would not happen again, Trump’s America undoubtedly bares an uncomfortable resemblance to a Europe which was dominated by Fascism. Yet while we can draw comparisons, there are also great differences. People are aware of their own strength in numbers, and the platform which social media can provide. The Women’s March on Washington is clear evidence that women are people who do not sit still while injustice prevails. The people have autonomous power.

Many have remarked that marches do not have the influence they once held in Dr King’s era, but they demonstrate community. Daisy Bernard, who attended the Women’s March in London, said ‘despite the fact people were there because of horrible things that had happened, it was a really great day. It was encouraging seeing the sheer number of people there, and how optimistic everyone was. It was really chilled; music was playing and everyone was so friendly too.’ Women gathered not to protest about Trump, but to protest the misogyny he represents. Thousands of women marched adorned with banners to fight for a million different reasons, but they were all fighting for their self-defined feminism. Women long before the Suffrage movements were fighting for their equality. The Women’s March expressed true transnational feminism which women have been striving for since World War One, and will continue to do so long after Donald Trump.

Photo via Pinterest www.manchesterhistorian.com

ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

IS Battle: As Iraqi forces drive back the IS forces

Lucy Wickham

The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) burst onto the international scene in 2014 when they seized large swathes of land in Iraq and Syria. In June 2014, the group formally declared the establishment of a ‘caliphate’ (a state governed in accordance with Islamic law) over the territory it held. It also demanded that Muslims across the world swear allegiance to its leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi and migrate to territory under its control. At the beginning of March 2017, the Iraqi military began an offensive to take back control of the West Bank of Mosul, a city which was once an ISIL stronghold. As you can imagine, this rampaging across territory and the violence that has accompanied it has affected history to a very great degree.

History has been particularly affected in two ways by ISIL. Firstly, the violent impact which the group has had on the people of Iraq and Syria, as well as terror attacks in Western Europe can never been forgotten.

Photo via National Geographic

Secondly, whilst ISIL marched across Iraq and Syria, they captured towns and cities which have incredible historical importance and in many cases looted museums and libraries and destroyed what was left of ancient ruins across the two countries. This has caused irreparable historical and cultural damage to the area.

The roots of ISIL in its current form can be traced back to 2010 when Abu Bakr al Baghdadi became leader of Al Qaeda in Iraq. He began rebuilding the group’s capabilities in Iraq and in 2013 he announced the merger of his forces in Iraq and Syria and the creation of ‘Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant’.

Baghdadi and his forces exploited a political stand-off between the Shia-led government of Iraq and the minority Sunni Arab community in December 2013 to take control of the central city of Fallujah. In June 2014, the group also overran Mosul and began advancing southwards towards Baghdad. At the end of June 2014, after consolidating its fold over dozens of cities and towns, ISIL declared the creation of a ‘caliphate’ and changed its name to Islamic State.

In 2015, they began attacking Western Europe in order to solidify their hold and support among radical jihadists. This began with the Charlie Hebdo attack in January 2015 where 12 people were killed in a lunchtime massacre at the satirical newspaper’s offices in Paris. Later that year, in November, a series of coordinated attacks happened in Paris where 130 victims were killed and hundreds more injured. This was the deadliest assault on French soil since the Second World War. In March 2016, two suicide bombings at Brussels airport and another at a metro station in the city centre killed 32 people and wounded more than 300 victims. On the 14 July 2016, revellers at a Bastille Day celebration were attacked with a lorry in Nice, where 84 people were killed. A series of small attacks occurred in July 2016 throughout Germany which were also attributed to ISIL. There can be no doubt that these attacks have left black marks on the history of Western Europe and have left many people of the opinion that ISIL poses the greatest terror threat in the world today.

As part of their rampage across Iraq and Syria, ISIL have caused irreparable damage to sites of historical and archaeological significance, many of which will never be restored or recovered.

In August 2015, the group released a video which showed the fiery destruction of the Temple of Baalshamin, one of the best-preserved ruins at the Syrian site of Palmyra. United Nations satellite images also show that a large temple dedicated to the ancient god Baal has largely been destroyed. Palmyra was formerly one of Syria’s largest tourist destinations before the area was captured by ISIL in May 2015. In Iraq, reports of looting at Mosul’s libraries and universities began to surface almost as soon as their forces entered the city. The Mosul University library was burned to the ground in December 2014 and in late February 2015, Mosul’s central public library, a landmark built in 1922, was rigged with explosives and turned to rubble.

Along with the destruction of these ancient and cultural sites goes the disappearance of centuries-old manuscripts, archaeological sites and thousands of books. When the war in Iraq and Syria ends, historians and archaeologists will be set back decades by the destruction wrought by ISIL, and this is one of the greatest tragedies of the conflict.

Photo via National Geographic @TheMcrHistorian

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

Gerald Kaufman: A Biography After a long-lasting battle with illness, Sir Gerald Kaufman, father of the House of Commons and the UK’s oldest sitting MP, passed away 26 February 2017. Kaufman, the son of Polish, Jewish immigrants, was born in Leeds in 1930. After attending Leeds Grammar School, he studied philosophy, politics and economics at the University of Oxford- where he became general secretary of the Labour Club.

Kaufman filled an extensive array of positions within politics and the media. Between 1954 and 1955, he was Assistant General Secretary of the Fabian Society. Kaufman wrote for the ‘Daily Mirror’ for nine years, and ‘New Statesman’ between 1964 and 1965. This experience secured him the position of Parliamentary Press Liaison Officer for Labour between 1965 and 1970. After two unsuccessful electoral campaigns in Bromley and Gillingham, he became a writer and contributor to BBC’s satirical comedy programme That Was The Week That Was. Kaufman’s first electoral success came in 1970 when he triumphantly contested the constituency of Manchester Ardwick, which, due to changes in parliamentary boundaries, became Manchester Gorton in 1983. While loyally serving his constituents, normally in accordance with his eccentric style of dress, Kaufman held a wide range of roles within the Labour Party.

Under the 1974 -1979 Labour government, he took on the role of Junior Minister in the Department for the Environment and

The Oscars

Its History and its Controversy

Jack Batley

then in the Department of Industry.

His involvement in Labour continued throughout the 1980s, as he took on roles such as Shadow Home Secretary and Shadow Foreign Secretary. More recently, Kaufman was chair of the Select Committee for Culture, Media and Sport between 1992 and 2005, and was a member of the Parliamentary Committee for Labour from 1980 to 1992. His services to Parliament were eventually rewarded with his knighthood in 2004.

Kaufman was no stranger to controversy. In 2009, he was embroiled in the parliamentary expenses scandal in which it was uncovered that he made numerous claims including a claim of £225 for a rollerball pen. Known for his sharp tongue and strong views, Kaufman, a member of the Jewish Labour Movement, was a vocal critic of the state of Israel. He called for sanctions against the nation and advocated the idea of Palestinian statehood, while also speaking out strongly against domestic issues such as fox hunting.

Since his death, messages of condolences and admiration have been voiced from across the political spectrum. Labour Leader, Jeremy Corbyn, described him as an ‘iconic and irascible figure’, with Conservative MP George Osbourne referring to him as a ‘champion of his Manchester constituents’. In his 86 years, Kaufman has left an impactful legacy on the political landscape of Britain and will be sorely missed by family, friends, colleagues, and the general public.

Amy Leahy

winners was firmly in place after the Los Angeles Times leaked the winners before the ceremony in 1940.

Every January the nominations for the upcoming Academy A report in 2012 showed that 94% of members of the academy Awards are announced, leaving anticipation to build until were white and more than 77% were male. Lack of diversity winners are revealed at the coveted ceremony at the end of such as this was the catalyst for the ‘#Oscarssowhite’ boycott of February. Since its beginning in 1929, the Awards ceremony has the 88th Academy Awards. 2016 was the second consecutive been the subject of both positive and controversial news, most year in which no non-white actor had been nominated for an infamously the ‘#OscarsSoWhite’ 2016 boycott, protesting a lack award. Leading African Americans in the of diversity. field such as Will and Jada-Pinkett Smith The Academy Awards, more commonly boycotted the event in protest. Spike Lee known as the Oscars, recognises excelalso supported the boycott, posting on lence in film by presenting the most Instagram ‘How is it possible for the 2nd prestigious awards available in the consecutive year all 20 contenders under industry. There are 24 statues awarded, the actor category are white? 40 white ranging from best cinematography to the actors in 2 years and no flava at all.’ sought-after best picture accolade. The OsRace is a persistent controversial issue in cars has dramatically developed since its the US and the under representation of beginning in 1929, in the midst of prohiAfrican Americans has proved to be a seribition and months before depression. The ous issue. There has been progress, such first ceremony was held on 16 May 1929 Photo via BBC News as Viola Davis becoming the first African American to have at a private dinner in the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel: three academy awards and to win an Oscar, Emmy and tickets cost just $5 and the ceremony lasted 15 minutes, Tony award following her Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in quite a difference to the televised ceremony that reaches a glob2017. Although race persists to be a controversial issue in both al audience, recording its highest audience in 1998 at 55.299 American film and society, the controversy and media coverage million when Titanic scooped best picture. Broadcast on the of the #Oscarssowhite boycott emphasises the enormity and radio from 1930, the Oscars did not reach the television screen popularity of the Academy Awards. until 1953, where the ‘golden envelope’ routine of announcing

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

A History of Space Exploration Galileo Galilei is credited with taking the first historical landmark in space exploration; his first telescopic observation of the night sky discovered the moons of Jupiter and the phases of Venus. These discoveries and Galilei’s involvement in the scientific revolution of the seventeenth century saw the progress of space exploration catalyse rapidly.

Galilei’s discoveries would influence Isaac Newton’s Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica; a groundbreaking analysis of physical theories that has formulated our principal understandings of gravity, not only here on earth but on the moon also. However, it wasn’t until the early twentieth century that rocketry and the notion that space exploration truly progressed.

The newly established strongest nations of the twentieth century led the space exploration drive. Germany, seemingly impervious to the fallout emerging from their defeat in World War I, made great strides in rocket mechanism during the years of the Weimar Republic. Top European scientists formed the Verein für Raumschiffahrt (‘Society for Space Travel’) in 1929. This society expanded on the work of German physicist Hermann Oberth, whose 1923 publication Die Rakete zu den Planetenräumen ("The Rocket into Planetary Space") had revived an interest in space exploration throughout Europe.

‘In February 2017, Astronomers have detected a record seven planets orbiting Trappist-1’ A lack of funding in astronautics within Germany from 1933 onwards meant that Europe’s leading space researcher fell behind other nations, such as the USSR and the US, as Nazi Germany geared itself for war. Following the events of World War II, two new super-powers emerged; Russia and the US. They dominated the rest of the century in many areas, including space science.

As a sub-story to the Cold War, the US and USSR battled out the infamous ‘Space Race’ to gain supremacy in the battle for spaceflight capability. Originating from the nuclear arms race that followed World War II, the two countries were aided by the capturing of German missile technology. The superiority in such a field was seen as vital for national security and symbolic of ideological superiority, i.e. the capitalist ideology channelled by the U.S. against the principles of communism that had embraced the Soviet Union throughout the twentieth century.

The ‘Space Race’ commenced in August 1955 as the Soviet Union declared their intentions to launch a satellite into space, just as the Americans were doing. The Soviets took many of the initial victories; Sputnik 1 orbited the earth successfully as @TheMcrHistorian

Will Bain

the first artificial satellite and in 1961 the Soviets put the first human, Yuri Gagarin, into space on April 12, 1961.

Nevertheless, in truly combative fashion, President Kennedy almost dismissed the Russian’s achievements, redirecting the race towards the moon. He said ‘I believe that this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the Moon and returning him safely to Earth.’

Photo via Pinterest

Sure enough, while Kennedy would not see out the decade himself, his 1961 speech showed the US and their space program at NASA were driving all their efforts towards putting man on the Moon. In 1969, this dream became a reality as Apollo 11 reached the Moon’s surface.

Neil Armstrong, followed closely by pilot Buzz Aldrin, uttered his famous words on 21 July 1969, before taking his first steps on the Moon that symbolized an American victory. Of course, this proved to be the historic space exploration moment. Yet, while the Apollo spaceflights continued to explore and orbit the moon, the impact of Apollo 11 led leading space programmes to explore greater horizons in our solar system. There were and still are huge questions left to ask.

In recent times, it has been the discovery of Trappist-1, the fashionably named ultra-cool star first discovered in 1999, which has sparked interest amongst physicists in recent times.

Astronomers first discovered three planets, all around the size of earth, orbiting the star that lies 39 light years away from earth.

As recently as February 2017, Astronomers have detected a record seven planets orbiting Trappist-1 with indications that these planets could support liquid water. Only three of these planets are believed to be in the ‘habitable’ zone where life is possible. Through the use of advanced telescopes, astronomers may be able to identify biological life on these planets. Whether revolving around our sun or not, it may seem the likelihood of life out in space is a real possibility.

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

WOMEN

IN

HISTORY

A Brief History of Modern American Women When considering people of historical significance in recent American history, we tend to think of men such as Barack Obama, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Neil Armstrong and, of course, the great Martin Luther King Jr. In a country that has only ever experienced male Presidents and where most leading politicians and activists are male, the actions of American women often go uncelebrated or unrecognised.

Eleanor Roosevelt was the longest serving First Lady of the United States, during President Roosevelt’s four terms in office from 1933 to 1945. In addition to this, she was also a politician, diplomat and activist in her own right. She was the first presidential spouse to hold regular press conferences, and when doing so banned male journalists, opening the door for women in a male-dominated field. Roosevelt wrote regular newspaper columns, and advocated increased rights for women, Africans and Asian Americans.

Rebecca Underwood

workshops that drove the movement, and Vivian Malone Jones was made famous when she was blocked by Governor George Wallace from enrolling at the University of Alabama in 1963, only being permitted to enrol after intervention from President John F. Kennedy, and later becoming the first African-American to graduate from the University. These often forgotten women dramatically shaped the American Civil Rights movement and therefore American society today.

Increasingly relevant in the current political climate are the actions of women’s activist, Margaret Sanger. In 1914, Margaret Sanger began publishing a pamphlet entitled The Woman Rebel, informing readers on contraceptive methods. She was indicted under postal obscenity laws, but in 1916 opened the first birth control clinic in the country, leading to her arrest and sentencing her to 30 days in the workhouse. In 1921, she founded the American Birth Control League, now known as Planned She faced much criticism for Parenthood, as well as opening her bold views and beliefs, a clinic in Harlem with an all Afbut continued regardless, rican-American advisory council. even disagreeing with her Margaret Sanger was influential husband’s policies on public in the shaping of women’s lives, spending, his decision to intern with Planned Parenthood still Japanese-Americans during aiding American women today. the Second World War, and She is widely regarded as a his decision to stop accepting founder of the modern American Eleanor Roosevelt, photo via United for Human Rights refugees fleeing Nazi-occupied Europe. birth control movement, helping not just Eleanor Roosevelt redefined the role of a First Lady, from mere white women, but African-American women too. presidential wife to political activist, allowing other First Ladies to follow in her footsteps. After the death of her husband, RooIf Eleanor Roosevelt revolutionised the role of the First Lady, sevelt continued her trailblazing political career, becoming the Michelle Obama certainly took advantage of this. Obama was first chairperson of the United Nations Commission on Human extremely successful, and during her career earned almost Rights, and as well as this he had an active role in writing the twice as much as her husband – who was then a United States Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Senator. During her husband’s 2008 Presidential campaign, Michelle also turned her attention to politics. She supported her Women’s influence has also been overshadowed by their male husband’s campaigns, and she herself became an advocate for counterparts in the popular memory of the American Civil poverty awareness, physical activity and healthy eating, leading Rights Movement. The main actors that come to mind when her own ‘Let’s Move!’ initiative in 2010. Michelle Obama has thinking of the movement are Martin Luther King Jr., Malcom X, become a widely accepted role model and inspiration for young and Andrew Goodman, with Rosa Parks often being the only fewomen and women of colour, having spoken out against sexism male we remember after her Montgomery Bus Boycott. Known and racism throughout her career. as ‘the first lady of civil rights’ or ‘the mother of the freedom The achievements of women in American history may frequently movement,’ we are reminded constantly of Parks’ femininity, be subordinated to those of men, but women have been indisrather than focussing on her political impact. Many women in pensable in the shaping of America. Given the achievements the Civil Rights Movement remain completely forgotten. Ella of First Ladies such as Eleanor Roosevelt and Michelle Obama, Baker was an organiser in the NAACP, and mentored activists the question today is what will be the legacy, if any, of Melania such as Rosa Parks and Bob Moses; Septima Poinsette Clark Trump, as wife of the leader of the ‘Free World’? was responsible for developing the literacy and citizenship

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

Abolition of Widow Immolation Araddhna Patel in India Sati is a Hindu funerary custom where a widow immolates herself on her husband’s funeral pyre or commits suicide in another manner shortly after her husband’s death. The now-obsolete act first dates back to the fourth century BCE and is considered to have originated within the Kshatriya (warrior) caste in India.

The practice was prevalent among Hindu communities and observed by Sikh aristocrats, but has also been evidenced outside South Asia, such as in Indonesia. Once sati had permeated the other castes in India, the act became increasingly common.

A crude depiction of sati, photo via Ranker

The reason for practicing sati was that a wife who burned herself on the pyre, whether willingly or unwillingly, created honour for her family. Along with her flesh, the sins committed by her husband would be burned away too. Widows often believed the life that awaited them should they not commit sati would be worse than death; she would essentially become a ‘non-person,’ dishonouring her family, unable to attend any religious rituals, and having to shave her head in shame. In this time, wives could be of any age – even a five-year-old child would have to practice sati. Moreover, many women who did not commit suicide would move out and live on the streets, as they did not want to live in humiliation with their husband’s family.

life is God-given and so can only be taken by God. Moreover, the practice of sati had no Vedic standing. According to Hindu scripture, there is no mention of sati whatsoever in Vedic literature. The earliest scholarly discussion of sati is found in Sanskrit literature from the tenth to twelfth century. Medhatithi of Kashmir gives commentary on sati by arguing it is a form of suicide, which is prohibited by Vedic tradition.

Swaminarayan advocated heavily for female rights with the goal of effecting positive social reforms as well as removing suffering by opposing sati and other practices like dudh-piti, a method of female infanticide by drowning newborns in milk. His endeavours were supported by Sir John Malcolm, Governor of the Bombay Presidency, and helped lead to the Sati Abolition Act in 1829. Its enactment was accompanied by fear of protest from the orthodoxy; many were apprehensive of a defensive reaction from Hindus that would only worsen the problem. Whilst there was some protest, mainly by orthodox Hindus in Calcutta, the ban was not lifted. The campaign against the abolition led to an amendment to the Indian Penal Code ten years later, which distinguished between ‘voluntary’ and ‘forceful’ sati; the former was permitted. Queen Victoria later issued a general ban throughout India in 1861, with laws enacted by government authorities.

When India came under British rule, the practice was tolerated at first. In fact, a colonial government official in the province of Bengal increased the prestige value of sati. However, campaigns against the practice by Christian missionaries like William Carey and Hindus such as Swaminarayan and Ram Mohan Roy led to its abolition.

Swaminarayan, a religious pioneer of a reformed and purified Hinduism in the 1800s, is the founder of the Swaminarayan Hindu tradition. He was strongly opposed to the practice of sati, and actively worked to educate the masses against such abhorrent, misguided, and groundless social customs. Swaminarayan preached that all life is equally sacred, whether male or female;

The Alumni Athletic Club in 1910, Alexander Watson Hutton top centre, Wikimedia Commons @TheMcrHistorian

Swaminarayan opposing sati, photo via BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha

More recently, there have been 28 cases of sati or attempted sati between 1943 and 1987 in India. One of the most well documented cases was that of Roop Kanwar, an 18-year-old from Rajasthan, India. In response to this incident, additional legislation was passed nationwide by the central government of India.

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

Joan of Arc With International Women’s Day having just passed, it seems appropriate to pay homage to one of the most famous heroines in history, Joan of Arc. The Maid of Orléans, as she became known after her courageous involvement in the Hundred Years’ War, will forever be one of the most revered female figures to walk European soil.

Born into a peasant family in Domrémy in northeast France, this nineteen-year-old girl won one of the most decisive battles of the Lancastrian phase of the Hundred Years’ War. It is said that she received divine visions instructing her to lead the French army against the English. In 1429, she lifted the Siege of Orléans after only nine days, putting an end to a period of stalemate and low French morale since destruction at the hands of the English at Agincourt in 1415.

This victory was quickly followed by several others which paved the way for an eventual victory for the French with the coronation of Charles VII at Reims. Captured soon after at Compiegne by the Burgundian faction, who were fighting on the side of the English, Joan was put on trial for having spoken to the devil.

Not being able to prove this, the English found her guilty instead of cross-dressing as a man and burnt her alive at the stake.

James Blower This nationalist rhetoric however seems more relevant today than it has ever been, as we are witnessing the rise of rightwing parties all over Europe. The upcoming French election has brought Joan of Arc’s name once more into the spotlight, as she is appropriated by one of the leading parties, the xenophobic National Front, as a symbol of nationalism. Their message: “return France to the French people again.”

While it may seem that Marine Le Pen’s populist party have taken Joan’s fighting talk out of context, it is not just modern political parties who have used her as a symbol. After the French revolution of 1789 and during the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte, she was declared a national symbol. Joan continued to be appropriated by the numerous Republics that governed France throughout the nineteenth century as a symbol of resistance to the foreign influence that threatened French borders. The Vichy government even employed her image to encourage resistance to German occupation during World War II. It is not unusual that a female figure has been used so commonly to incite nationalist sentiment and encourage unity in the face of exterior threats.

Nationalism is a gendered concept. Female figures have been used throughout time to symbolise it; Delacroix’s La Liberté Guidant la Peuple depicts a woman leading male revolutionaries towards a future of freedom and equality; and Mother India and Mother Russia were the mythical images behind which their respective mass movements rallied.

“Return France to the French people again.”

In 1456, Pope Callixtus III re-examined the trial and found her innocent, in so declaring her a martyr and a symbol of religious purity. Due to the courage she showed fighting for national unity, she remained a widely respected figure in France throughout the medieval ages.

In 1920 she was canonised as a Roman Catholic saint and is to this day one of nine secondary patron saints of France.

Although she died very young, Joan of Arc’s legacy has lived on. Historians today believe that Joan invented the concept of nationalism. Although the word ‘nation’ derives from Latin, up to this point people belonged to their kingdom; they were Norman or Alsatian. In other words, there was no such idea as being ‘French’. Joan gave birth to this idea of ‘Frenchness’ by portraying the English as an ‘Other’. She won popular support by propagating the message: “they are in our land and we must get them out.”

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For many, Joan of Arc is an emblem of feminism, of women’s struggle and courage in a world dominated by men. While the aura surrounding Joan of Arc should be one of strength, patriotism and fighting spirit, for many today her image has been tarnished by its close association with the far-right National Front. Taken out of its medieval context, her symbol has come to be associated with the anti-EU and anti-immigration rhetoric that has swept over Europe in the last few years.

However she is perceived in France, it will be possible to ignore Joan of Arc’s symbolism over the next two months as parties go head to head in what is sure to be the most exciting presidential election in a long, long time.

Photo above via Wikicommons

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

Reclaim the Night The empowerment of standing shoulder to shoulder with individuals who passionately stand against sexual crimes against women, rape culture and victim blaming is immeasurable. In late February of this year, around 2500 members of the Manchester community marched to reclaim women’s right to walk the streets without fear of being attacked or victimised as a result of their gender. This march took its inspiration from the 1977 Leeds demonstration which challenged the public’s response to their rape crisis and the police’s failure to act. Their victim blaming rhetoric has been consistent since then.

After a series of sexual assaults on students in Manchester, the police just told women ‘to take precautions and try and protect themselves from similar incidents in the future.’ This march represents a response to the public and police’s blasé attitude towards women’s safety.

Unfortunately, 40 years have passed since Leeds first raised this issue and we still see bigoted, ignorant responses even by our own students. A recent article in The Mancunion stated ‘we do not live in a rape culture.’ Despite claiming he is a proponent of equality, this young male challenges the definition of rape and apparently proves his claim with outdated statistics. His patronising and unfounded claim disregards the current public

Edith Cavell

An Insight into the Nurse Executed by the Germans 2017 will mark the 102nd anniversary of Edith Louisa Cavell’s death. Born on the 4 December 1872 in a small Norfolk town, Cavell began training to become a nurse at the age of 21 and finally qualified in 1896. After moving to Belgium, her career went from strength to strength; she became matron of The Berkendael Medical Institute and even launched a professional journal, L’infirmiére. Cavell’s life is celebrated for her work saving the lives of soldiers from both sides during the First World War. In 1915, Cavell stated, ‘I realise patriotism is not enough.

I must have no hatred or bitterness towards anyone’; a quality which led to her own demise.

In August 1915, Cavell was arrested by the German authorities for treason when she was charged with helping British and French soldiers escape Belgium for neutral Holland, sheltering many of them in her own home. Cavell was held in Saint-Gilles prison for ten weeks, with two spent in solitary confinement.

Cavell subsequently pleaded guilty to the offences with which she had been charged and was sentenced to death. Although many of her admirers had suggested that she wear her official uniform to help her case, Cavell chose to wear civilian clothing for she did not want to dishonour the nurses’ uniform. Despite pleas to commute her sentence from the neutral governments

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Molly Tillett feeling towards sexual assault and the realities of sexual victimisation of individuals. The disturbing sentiment of the public is particularly evident in light of legal cases of Ched Evans and Adam Johnson. The first case was dismissed due to lack of evidence, not lack of guilt. But the reaction against the women on social media who were brave enough to challenge these privileged men through a system which inherently blames victims, was disgusting. Social media gave men a platform to state these women should be raped for lying in court and ruining the men’s careers. This demonstrates the desensitisation of rape in our society and sexual related threats continue to oppress women further. Rape culture in Britain undeniably exists.

Ignorant responses by our peers continue to shock, as these may be the people we would trust with our safety. Accusing Reclaim the Night of not representing male victims sums up the ignorance surrounding the topic. Reclaim the Night is against any form of sexual assault. However, women on a daily basis face the struggle against the patriarchy and rape culture which consistently blames them for the crimes made against them whilst also amindlessly threatening further It is vital to Pele during game against Malmö FF in 1960, assault.

Brazil won 7-1.

Wikimedia continue Commons marches such as Reclaim the Night and support charities helping victims to challenge views such as this, until the rape culture is quashed and women are truly equal to men.

From an illustration by David Lloyd

Grace Young of the United States and Spain, Cavell was executed by a German firing squad on 12 October, 1915.

Cavell’s death became notorious; she was celebrated as a martyr and treated as a heroine across the world, but most notably in the British media. Her death cemented her as an iconic character in propaganda campaigns for military recruitment and helped to increase auspicious attitudes towards the Allies in the United States. The British media publicised her death and execution, presenting her as valiant figure in the face of German barbarism and moral depravity. Britain used Cavell’s story to fuel enthusiasm and heighten morale, both of which were integral factors to the war effort.

However Cavell’s biographer Diana Souhami argued that the media portrayed her as an innocent victim and distorted her image. Souhami was keen for Cavell to be remembered for her work rescuing soldiers, her great courage and her career as a hospital matron; the biography thereby moved away from the patronising views that were projected onto her by British wartime media. Today, Edith Cavell is commemorated all around the globe and she has become the most renowned female casualty of the First World War.

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

HISTORY YOU SHOULD KNOW 100 Years Since the Russian Revolution Tegan Hillberry

Photo via Royal Academy of Arts

2017 marks the centenary of the tumultuous year that brought an end to Tsarism in Russia, unfolding into seventy years of Communist rule, and the rise and fall of the Soviet Union. In fact, 1917 featured two revolutions: the February Revolution, which succeeded in ending over 300 years of rule by the Romanov Dynasty, followed by the October Revolution, where Lenin and the Bolsheviks seized control.

Failed economic policies, food shortages, and the growing dis-enchantment towards Tsarist authority, meant that by 1917, Russia was in a highly fragile political state. There was deep unrest amongst the Russian population, with desire for change coming from almost all sections of society. The February Revolution arose from a series of industrial strikes in the capital, which developed into mass demonstrations calling for an end to the Tsarist regime. Tsar Nicholas II called upon the army to control the crowds. However, the soldiers identified with the discontent of the protesters, turning against the Tsar and taking the side of the revolution. Consequently, the Tsar had lost all control over his people, and was forced to abdicate.

Whilst there were high hopes for a democratic future, as it was oppressed peasants and workers forcing change in the country, the revolution ultimately brought about an unstable situation.

Although the workers were the architects of the revolution, they handed over political power to a ‘Provisional Government’, comprising of former members of the Tsarist legislative assembly, creating a system of dual authority with the ‘Petrograd Soviet’ who claimed represented the interests of peasants and workers.

This dual power arrangement created a complex system of authority which failed to function effectively. This new form of government pre-occupied itself with trying to win World War One, neglecting the country’s economic and social problems.

With the Provisional Government failing to meet the aims of

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the country, Lenin and the Bolsheviks were able to gain support through promising an end to the war, land for peasants, and ‘All power to the Soviets.’ This allowed for the Bolsheviks to gain a majority in the Petrograd Soviet. Thus, with the belief that they had popular support, the Bolsheviks staged a coup, capturing government buildings and the Winter Palace in Petrograd.

Although this is classified as the October ‘Revolution’, there was no storming of the palace, nor any fierce fighting. In fact, it was a bloodless affair that took place in the middle of the night, without the Russian population being aware that they would wake up to a new system of authority. It was predominately carried out by a small number of Bolshevik insurgents who faced virtually no opposition, practically being able to walk into the building and take over. With Lenin now in power, the history of Communism and totalitarian rule in Russia began, and would continue for over seventy years.

The new regime and its ideology saw the birth of the Soviet Union, the removal of private property, and vast levels of censorship and propaganda intrinsically linking every aspect of personal life and cultural output with politics. Although this new regime proved to be at least as repressive, if not more, than the one it replaced, it caused a substantial change for the direction of Russia. However, the Revolutions of 1917 not only dramatically reshaped the course of history for Russia, but fundamentally altered the path of European and World History throughout the twentieth Century.

Ultimately, the world became divided into two diametrically opposed power blocs: the Soviet Union’s Communist bloc, and the Capitalist bloc of the West. Communist policies set the Soviet Union on a collision course with the rest of the World.

The tensions this created eventually unfolded into the Cold War. Furthermore, World War II could have ended very differently had Stalin not been in power. It is almost impossible to imagine how these major world events would have played out without the consequences of 1917. Thus, it could be argued that the revolutions of 1917 were the most transformative events of the twentieth Century.

This year is the centenary of the Russian Revolutions, yet it is difficult to know how to mark arguably the most radical turning points in Russian History. The year of 1917 not only drastically shook Russia, but fundamentally changed the course of a number of significant events in world history. The world we live in today would be virtually unthinkable without the political climate and events that unfolded as a result of the Russian Revolutions of 1917. www.manchesterhistorian.com

ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

Cleopatra: The Most Notable Egyptian in Imogen Major History Cleopatra is one of the most well-known Egyptian historical figures of all time, but why is she so iconic? She was born in Alexandria in 69 BCE into the Ptolemaic dynasty. From birth until the time of her suicide in 30 BCE, Cleopatra’s life consisted of incredible drama, incest, murder, mystery and undeniable scandal.

Cleopatra is notable not only since she was the last pharaoh of the Ptolemaic dynasty, but also due to the methods she employed to achieve this feat. Our sources tell us that in 51 BCE she became joint ruler of Egypt with her ten-year old brother and husband Ptolemy XIII. After being forced into exile in 48 BCE, she supposedly took advantage of tense relations between her brother and Roman general Julius Caesar to start a civil war in which her brother was killed. This allowed her to regain power.

She was also allegedly behind the deaths of her other younger brother Ptolemy XIV and sister Arsinoe, for they were considered potential rivals. These depictions present Cleopatra as a murderous and scheming individual who was prepared to do anything in order to gain power, therefore, leaving a lasting impression on history. Cleopatra is also famous for her scandalous romances and supposed corruption of Roman generals Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.

St. Patrick’s Day We’ve all heard of Saint Patrick’s Day. Every year on 17 March people all over the world celebrate this occasion and all things Irish by dressing up in green and consuming copious amounts of alcohol. Yet most people know little about who Saint Patrick actually was and why this day is so widely celebrated.

Despite his Irish identity, Saint Patrick was believed to havebeen born in Dumbarton, Scotland in 385 CE. When he was 16, he was captured by pirates and sold into slavery in Ireland. Here, he became a devout Christian – even claiming to see visions from God. After escaping captivity, he returned to Ireland as a Christian missionary, helping baptise, establish churches and convert many to Christianity Patrick died around 461 CE. His widely-known position in Ireland cemented his position as the patron saint of the country, and a feast day declared in the seventeenth century on his alleged death date – 17 March.

The origins of the festival we know today began in 1737 in Boston, when the Charitable Irish Society of Boston celebrated the culture of the arriving Irish immigrants with a feast and religious service. This yearly tradition spread, and the first parade was held in New York in 1762. It was started by soldiers, hence the military theme in many modern parades. @TheMcrHistorian

According to our sources such as Plutarch and Cassius Dio, in 48 BCE she seduced Caesar with her striking beauty in an elaborate plot to dispose of her brother. When she and their child joined him in Rome in 46 BCE, it enraged the conservative republican Roman state. Then, in 41 BCE; after Caesar’s assassination, Cleopatra met Mark Antony. They became lovers and had three children. Mark Antony’s rival Octavian saw this as an opportunity portray him as a traitor, and so persuaded the senate to declare war on Egypt. Antony and Cleopatra led their own naval armies against Rome, however, they were defeated at the battle of Actium in 31 BCE Cleopatra then followed Antony in committing suicide in 30 BCE. These striking stories of her romantic involvement and corruption of prominent Roman men have resulted in Cleopatra remaining a prominent figure in historical thought. These stories also present her as a strong and independent female leader, unusual for this time period.

Overall, Cleopatra has been depicted in our sources as a powerful, vindictive and enticing villain who murdered her own siblings and corrupted powerful Roman men in order to secure her own position. This has led to her being considered a great and strong female figure in Ancient history, thus leading to her becoming one of the best known Egyptians.

Luke Maguire Since the colonial era, it is now celebrated in more countries than any other national festival, and is a national holiday in both Northern and the Republic of Ireland.

Saint Patrick’s Day falls during Lent, but restrictions are lifted on the day, meaning a tradition of excessive alcohol drinking has emerged. The colour green has long been associated with Ireland, due to it being known as the “Emerald isle’ and as this day is a celebration of all things Irish, many people adorn themselves in green clothing. The shamrock is also closely associated with Saint Patrick’s Day. This is because he is said to have used the Shamrock as a metaphor for explaining the Holy Trinity to the pagan Irish: the shamrock has 3 leaves which represent the father, the son and the Holy Spirit.

Today, Saint Patrick’s Day has become more about an expression of Irish culture rather than about the Saint himself. It was once heralded as religious holiday but it has evolved into more of a secular holiday. Its development into global popularity does not have an obvious explanation but the modern Saint Patrick’s Day has been criticised for being too commercial, and by some of propagating negative Irish stereotypes. Nevertheless it remains a time of year to celebrate and rejoice with friends and family, where all are invited to take part, Irish and non-Irish alike.

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

The Spanish Armada Let’s take a step back into the sixteenth century, into a world where religious tensions between Catholic and Protestant nations are at the forefront of European life. The relationship between Elizabeth I and Philip II of Spain was cordial for the A early years of their respective reigns, but by the late 1570s that cordiality began to fade into distant memory, and war reared its ugly head. The Spanish Armada was seen as the answer to the growing hostilities between the Catholic and Protestant kingdoms, so let’s explore its journey, its failure, and what happened after its defeat.

Philip II’s decision to invade England was not a sudden one, it was a result of years of tensions between the two countries. The English were consistently raiding Spanish trade routes, assisting Dutch rebels in the Spanish held territories of the Netherlands, and were loyal to a Protestant queen. Pope Pius V also issued a papal bull titled ‘Regnans in Exclesis’ (reigning on high) in which Elizabeth I was excommunicated, shunning her from the Catholic flock.

In 1587, Philip’s patience ended, as too did the life of Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots, executed by the English in yet another display of defiance against Catholic authority in Europe. In July of the following year, the grand armada of 132 ships, 18,000 soldiers, 7,000 sailors and 3,165 cannons gathered for one of the largest naval attacks in recorded history. On route to England, this vast force was to be bolstered by an additional 17,000 veteran fighters at Calais under the command of the Duke of Parma. They prepared for this noble and righteous ‘crusade’ against the English Protestants, and numbers alone made this army seem almost invincible. The restoration of Roman Catholicism as the single dominant religion in Europe was not to be, however, as the forces of Philip II were soon to discover.

By winter of 1588, only 67 Spanish ships returned back to their homeland. We went from having an ‘invincible’ force to one where only half of the ships returned, so what happened? It turns out everything that could go wrong did go wrong. The Spanish underestimated the leadership of strategically adept commanders, such as Sir Francis Drake and Sir John Hawkins,

but they also failed to properly communicate and strategize with their own forces. There were some skirmishes with the English, but the Spanish were intent on meeting up with the forces of the Duke of Parma. We have thousands of soldiers and sailors who were ready to assault England now waiting at Calais to rendezvous with Parma’s army. The English seized this opportunity of vulnerability and sent in smaller and more manoeuvrable fire ships to scatter the Spanish navy in a surprise attack.

Following this, Alonso Pérez de Guzmán, Duke of Medina Sidonia and commander of the armada, tried to reorganise his forces whilst waiting for the arrival of the Duke at a small port in the Spanish-Netherlands called Gravelines. The English again pushed their advantage with hit and run attacks against the slower Spanish navy and successfully damaged the broadsides of many ships.

The idea of being reinforced by Parma was abandoned and panic began to set in. With their route to Spain cut off, the remnants of the armada had to instead travel further north through the treacherous seas around Scotland and Ireland.

This sealed Spain’s defeat, as wild storms and unruly seas tore apart hull after hull, dooming many to the depths of the ice cold ocean. Fewer than 10,000 men returned to Spain, signalling the end of any aspiration for Catholic domination over England.

Spurred on by the failure of Spain, and wanting to achieve naval superiority, Elizabeth I sanctioned a counter-armada (also known as the Drake-Norris Expedition) under the leadership of Sir Francis Drake. Most of the Spanish ships lost in their failed ‘crusade’ had been repurposed merchant ships, with many of the heavy hitting galleons surviving the journey home. Spain was not completely vulnerable to attack as the English had hoped, and Drake’s initial surprise advantage soon began to disappear. Spain reorganised and the English began to suffer, losing 40 ships to battle and bad weather as well as many more men to disease eating away at the navy.

The English expedition failed just as the Spanish one did, but Spain still retained its place as the dominant naval power. After this, the conflict began to slowly wind down and a formal peace treaty was signed in 1604 ending the hostilities.

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Jamie Sinnott-Davies

Photo above via Wikicommons; Photo to right via BBC News

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

Film in History

Films Which Best Recreate the Setting of the Historical Landscape They are Trying to Replicate The big screen has had a love affair with history since technological advancement enabled the production of historical epics. From 1927’s Napoléon vu par Abel Gance, an impressive five hour silent epic to 2016’s WW2 thriller Hacksaw Ridge.

The events of history offer screenwriters the potential to create more encapsulating, heart-breaking and thought provoking stories than could scarcely be imagined in the realms of fiction.

History will never stop providing the film industry with potential masterpieces, or indeed critical and commercial failures, but what defines a successful historical film and is there a common denominator to success?

As the factors that define success are varied to the tastes of audience, the focus of this article will be upon which historical films best recreate the setting of the historical landscape they are trying to replicate. The multitude of genre and setting is vast with epics, thrillers and dramas, exploring war, love, deception and personal redemption in backgrounds as diverse as Ancient Greece and Rome to modern Europe. Schindler’s List is just one among many that could have fit the bill for this article, but I believe it stands out for differing reasons and is true to the times and events that it portrays.

Schindler’s List is a Steven Spielberg period drama of 1993 fo-

Fidel Castro: A Biography On 16 October, 1953, Fidel Castro gave an impassioned speech while on trial for his role in the Moncada Barracks attack. The speech was entitled, ‘History will absolve me.’ Having studied law at Havana University, Castro represented himself at the trial, and being a skilled propagandist, used this platform to spread his message of revolution against the capitalist dictatorship of Fulgencio Batista, the then president of Cuba.

The speech’s title demonstrates that Castro fervently believed in his role as a shaper of history; a role defined by his focus on the bigger picture and his constant struggle to bring global revolution, even at the expense of lives and liberty. It was this bigger picture that came to define Castro’s legacy. A legacy of being remembered as a thorn in the USA’s side, as the Red Devil on their doorstep, but also as a champion of Marxist Leninism, of socialism and equality. His supporters saw him as David fighting the Goliaths of the USA and imperialism.

As a defining player in the Cuban missile crisis of 1962, it was his invitation to the Russian Premier, Nikita Khrushchev, to house nuclear warheads in Cuba (thus giving the USSR the capacity to launch a nuclear strike upon the Western Hemisphere) that brought the world to the brink of nuclear annihilation. His aggressive attitude towards these missiles eventually

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Steven Bennett

cussing on the German businessman Oskar Schindler. Schindler (Liam Neeson) saved the lives of more than a thousand Polish refugees from the holocaust in WW2. The bleak and sorrowful environment of Poland in the 1940s is imagined simply by the film being shot in black and white. Scenes of Polish Jews being displaced to the Krakow ghettos, only to be later carted to concentration camps on packed out trains are solemn and foreboding. The film gains momentum as Schindler goes from exploiting the Jews to devoting himself to saving them once he realises the horror of the Nazi regime.

When watching the film one cannot help but feel the desperation of the time, such is the quality of Spielberg’s direction. The one colour scene of the film creates a vivid impact of the sheer ruthlessness of the atrocities. As Schindler watches a small girl in a red coat hide away during the emptying of the ghetto he believes her to be safe, only to reencounter the small girl in her red coat weeks later, this time dead and being carried to a landfill to be burnt. In Schindler’s List the historical environment of WW2 is created perfectly in all its sadness, with no big battle or action scenes, just the horrors of the time encapsulated in the story of one man and one community.

Harry Prestwich frightened Khrushchev into reconsidering.

Castro’s supporters will point out that this is but one of his many sides. Alternatively, Castro offered unwavering commitment to ending colonialism in Africa and Latin America. Nelson Mandela acknowledged the debt that South Africa owed to Cuba for helping to end Apartheid through the deployment of Cuban troops in the Angolan Civil War. His harshest critics are quick to point out his human rights record in Cuba: arrests and executions without trial, no free elections, and a population all too familiar with poverty and hunger.

However, in light of crippling US sanctions and the US objective of toppling Castro’s regime, is he solely to blame? Indeed, it is his relationship with the US that is most documented; a relationship defined by failed CIA assassination attempts and conflict.

Upon Castro’s death, the question of Castro’s legacy has again been raised. Was he a brutal dictator who desolated Cuba, or a revolutionary fighting a corrupt capitalist system? The verdict is still out, but Oliver Stone, the producer of Castro’s biographical film Commandante, says this about Castro’s legacy, ‘Fidel knows he won. They didn’t intimidate him. He never backed down.

He fought and died on his feet and not on his knees’. Though whether history will absolve Castro remains to be seen.

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

Post-War Japan

How did Japan, under occupation by the Allied forces, in 1945-1952 transform into one of the world’s most developed countires?

Sarah Daly

When looking at the images of devastation caused by the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki on the 6 and 9 August 1945 by the USA, it is hard to imagine that Japan would become one of the most developed nations in the 21st century, yet this is exactly what happened.

In total, around 500,000 Japanese civilians were killed in the bombing of Japan throughout the Second World War. The use of atomic bombs by the Americans caused total destruction, effectively ending Japan’s ability to carry on fighting in the war. When Japan finally surrendered on 15 August 1945, six days after the bombing of Nagasaki and the Soviet Union had declared war on Japan, it was the first time in Japanese history that the population heard the Emperor speak. The Japan that was left following the Second World War was a shadow of its pre-war Empire, brought to its knees by a new, violent, terrifying weapon.

Following Japan’s surrender, the country underwent a period of occupation from 1945 to 1952 by the Allied Forces, led by the Americans. General Douglas MacArthur directed the occupation and began military, political, economic and social reforms. The first years after the war were characterised by grim poverty for many Japanese people, who were left in desolation and unemployment. Returning soldiers faced hostility by many, as they were blamed for Japanese failure and faced shame as reports of war time atrocities committed by them came to light. The direness of the situation was demonstrated by the action of the USA to import emergency supplies in 1945 and 1946 to avoid mass starvation in the country.

The reconstruction of Japan centred on MacArthur’s plan to punish and reform, while improving its economy to make it a viable, yet non-threatening state. Part of this was done through the demilitarisation of Japan, which focused on the dismantling of the empire and the repatriation of Japanese civilians from overseas possessions. The country was also democratised through the transfer of power from the Emperor to the Japanese people, followed by the first democratic election on 10 April 1946 in which Japan had its first modern prime minister, Shigeru Yoshida. As part of decentralisation, the concentrations of wealth in Japanese society were removed.

Integral to the success of reform was the receptiveness of the Japanese people. After being devastated by the war, they looked for opportunities of change and used such occasions, such as voting in elections, to demonstrate this. Yet, the question remains, how did Japan become the successful country we recognise it as today? The term ‘economic miracle’ has been coined to explain the economic boom that occurred during the 1950’s and 1960’s.

Economic plans instigated by the Americans, such as the ‘Dodge Line’ plan, created government austerity to prevent hyperinflation.

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Photo via Wikicommons

The Korean War was also a huge turning point, as Japan became the supplier of textiles, paper and steel for the armed forces.

One of the first symbols of Japan becoming the nation we know it as today is in the Tokyo Olympics of 1964, a celebration of recovery from defeat. During this decade, the economy expanded at a rate of ten percent a year and many people who had witnessed the difficult post-war years were now seeing a different future.

This high speed economic growth led to urbanisation, and many left jobs in rural areas to work in cities in manufacturing. Generally, the standard of living rose across society, in rural as well as urban areas and this increase contributes to the fact that Japan has one of the greatest life expectancies in developed world. In 1961, universal healthcare was introduced into Japan, which included mass health screening of the population. Although, it was not an easy road, problems surfaced in the 1990’s when the economic bubble burst. Yet, Japan is now a leading figure in the international community, especially within Asia.

Japan’s rise to power has been a surprise success story and since the country regained independence in 1952, it has succeeded in its own right. The consequences of the war were used by the Japanese people to embrace changes initiated by the Allied Forces, and this is represented in its modern ethos of equality and hard work. The images of Hiroshima and Nagasaki will resonate with the Japanese people forever, but they now also represent their ability to progress and rebuild as a country. www.manchesterhistorian.com

ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

Heroines in Greek Mythology Greek mythology is filled with wonderfully bizarre tales of bravery, redemption and sex. The purpose of these myths was to explain the customs and history of the Ancient Greeks. The majority of myths revolved around their gods and heroes, all stemming from the ruler of Mount Olympus, Zeus. Greek mythology placed as much emphasis on male gods and heroes as their female counterparts.

Hera, Demeter and Hestia are all sisters of Zeus and the daughters of Rhea and Cronus. It was predicted that Cronus was to be overthrown by one of his children. To prevent this, he swallowed his entire new-borns whole. Rhea tricked Cronus into swallowing a stone instead of their youngest child, Zeus.

Brogen Campbell

out of Zeus’ forehead fully grown. Athena appears prominently throughout Greek mythology, being portrayed as a companion to heroes, which leads her to be the patron goddess of heroic endeavour. The city Athens was named in honour after the goddess, who gave the citizens the first domesticated olive tree.

In comparison to Aphrodite, who was seen as easily offended and ill tempered, Athena is revered for her calm temperament and involvement in only just wars. Athena never had any lovers and remained a virgin, being known as Athena Parthenos. One of the most famous temples dedicated to the goddess resides in Athens and is called the Parthenon, after her virgin status.

Zeus was then able to trick Cronus into regurgitating his siblings and then led an uprising against him. Hera married Zeus and holds the titled of the Queen of Heaven. This event shows the transition from the rule of the titans to the rule of the Greek gods and goddesses.

Aphrodite is the goddess of beauty, love desire and pleasure.

Aphrodite is one of the most well-known goddesses in Greek mythology. According to Homer’s account, she is perceived to be the daughter of Zeus and Dione.

In a more interesting account, Aphrodite was born due to the consequences of Uranus. Uranus’ genitals were severed by his own son Cronus (one of the first generation of the titans) who then threw them into the sea. The foam from his genitals gave rise to Aphrodite, who floated ashore on a scallop shell.

Aphrodite is honoured for her undeniable beauty, often being depicted entirely naked or semi-nude. However, this was conceived as a problem due to the jealously it was sure to attract from females and the rivalry it would create from males. That is why Zeus forced Aphrodite to marry the physically deformed god Hephaestus, who is besotted with her like all males.

However, like many gods and goddesses, Aphrodite is not faithful in her marriage and had numerous affairs and other lovers, most prominently with Ares. Aphrodite’s promise to make Helen fall in love with Paris was the catalyst in starting the Trojan War. This goddess is herald for her beauty and is still referenced in contemporary society in discussions concerning desirability and love.

Another notable goddess is Athena, goddess of wisdom, craft and war. Her origin story, like the majority of Greek mythology, was formed through Zeus’ infidelity. Zeus lay with Metis, but swallowed her once it was prophesised that Metis would bear children who would be more powerful then Zeus.

However, this did not prevent the birth of Athena, who emerged @TheMcrHistorian

Greek mythology wasn’t exclusively about the actions of gods and goddesses but also told the story of mortals. Pandora was the first human women to be created by the gods, who each attributed her with a specific gift.

Specifically, Zeus instructed Athena and Hephaestus to create Pandora. However, similarly to how it was Eve in Christianity who caused suffering to emerge in the world, it was Pandora who released all the evils of humanity.

Pandora’s Box relates to the myth that Pandora innocently opened a large jar, which released many evils into the world, including death. Pandora hurried to close the jar, but the only aspect she was able to keep trapped was hope. The fact it was a women who released these evils, no matter how oblivious Pandora was to her actions, reflects the patriarchal narrative which was prominent throughout Greek mythology.

Women featured prominently throughout Greek mythology, but their roles were used to enforce the Greek patriarchal society. All females are concerned with beauty and discussed in reference to their sexuality, either as desirable temptresses or virgins. They have had a distinct influence in history, frequently appearing in popular culture, and their legacy is maintained through statues and art work.

Photo above via Wikicommons

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

A History of the Māori People

Indigenous Arrivals Between 1250 — 1300 and Settlement in New Zealand The Māori are the native Polynesian people of New Zealand. The ancestors of the Māori originated from south-east Asia. Some historians trace these early settlers as migrating from today’s China. However, more commonly, the indigenous Māori are believed to have come from Haiwaiki, an island or group of islands in Polynesia in the South Pacific Ocean. Thor Heyerdahl, a Norwegian ethnographer and adventurer, noticed that the kumara, or the sweet potato, originated in central South America.

This was the staple cultivated food crop of the Māori. Along with the very distinct similarities between the Māori language and the culture and those of Polynesia, such as the Cook Islands, Hawaii, and Tahiti, scholars were led to believe that the Māori came from Haiwaiki. It is not possible to locate Haiwaiki on a modern-day map, however.

According to tradition, the first explorer to arrive in Aotearoa, the Māori name for New Zealand, was Kupe. This mythical Polynesian navigator used the stars and ocean currents as his directional guides, and ventured across the Pacific on his voyaging canoe or waka hourua. Ethnologists estimate he arrived in Aotearoa around 925 CE. The first mass arrival of Polynesian settlers, known as the Great Fleet, brought the Māori to Aotearoa in several waves. Modern scholars estimate this happened between 1250 and 1300.

Richard III:

Who killed the princes in the tower?

In 2012, the Richard III Society commissioned an archaeological excavation on a city council park in Leicester. After identification of the skeleton by the University of Leicester research team, the discovery became a huge historical landmark. Despite this significant and almost bizarre discovery, there will still be one main discussion that divides historians and casts a question mark upon the name of the fifteenth century king.

In the late fifteenth century, the control of the throne of England had seen The War of the Roses break out. From 1455, the Houses of York and Lancaster conflicted as an aftermath to the troubles that had resulted from the impact of the Hundred Years’ War. The initial failings and demise of Henry VI and the House of Lancaster saw the House of York spark an interest in the English monarchy. Edward reclaimed the throne he had held once before and attempted the consolidation of power from the House of York in 1471.

Richard’s ascension to the throne was rife with controversy. After the sudden death of Edward IV in April 1483, the throne was bequeathed to Edward’s oldest son, the 12 year-old Edward V. Edward IV’s death meant Richard became the protector of the realm for the incumbent King Edward V and escorted him to the capital to lodge in the tower of London. Days before his expected coronation, Edward V and his nine-year-old brother Richard of Shrewsbury went missing. On 26 June 1483, Richard III took to the throne of

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Araddhna Patel

After living over several centuries in isolation, the Polynesian settlers established a new culture known as the “Māori,” with their own language, mythology, and arts and crafts. The Māori were expert hunters and fishermen, so their most notable crafts include making stone adzes (cutting tools), weaving fishing nets from flax, and carving fishhooks from stone and bone. Tribal groups were also formed based on Polynesian social customs.

Warfare between these tribes was also common. Māori warriors were fierce and fearless – they built numerous weapons from stone and bone to be used in hand-to-hand combat. Training occurred from a young age to prepare children for future conflict, which was usually over territory.

It is when the Europeans arrived in New Zealand from the seventeenth century that enormous change was brought to the Māori way of life; they began adopting aspects of Western society and implementing them into their own lives. At the beginning, relations between the Māori and the Europeans were solid – the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, allowing both cultures to live alongside each other amicably in a British colony. Tensions began to rise over disputed land sales some two decades later, which led to major conflict. It was only by the twentieth century that the Māori began to recover.

Will Bain England. The absence of defining evidence to explain the disappearance of the two princes has resulted in multiple theories being put forward. The most widely supported view is that Richard murdered the two boys, their bodies hidden to hide any evidence.

Certainly, Richard’s insecure hold on the monarchy meant there was a Yorkist backlash against him. Many believed Edward V to be the true successor to the throne and the princes, while alive, remained a threat. Richard never proved that the Edward IV’s sons were still alive by having them seen in public; meaning rumours of their death in late 1483 were strongly supported. However, while never totally proven, the case for other suspects remains opened.

Historians like A.J. Pollard have suggested that the only other plausible suspect comes in the form of Henry VII. Henry was also believed to attempt to spite Elizabeth Woodville, the princes’ mother, after Woodville allegedly knew rumours that Richard had murdered the princes were false. However, as Henry was out of the country during the reign of Richard, his only opportunity to murder the princes would have been after his ascension. Seemingly, Richard had more to gain.

Perhaps the mystery of the princes will never be truly revealed.

Richard’s death in the Battle of Bosworth in 1485 catalysed the Tudor years under Henry VII. To this day, the story of the princes remains unknown; it is simply down to a matter of opinion when identifying the guilty party. www.manchesterhistorian.com

ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

Genghis Khan and the Largest Empire in History The Mongol Empire was one of the largest empires in the history of the world, covering a massive nine million square miles at its greatest extent; approximately a quarter of the world’s population were under Mongol rule. One man in particular is credited with this awesome feat of conquest: Genghis Khan.

Born Temujin in around 1162 as the heir of a relatively weak tribe of the Mongol Steppe, his prospects would have not been all that good. Although, Mongol legend has it that the great man was born with his fist closed tightly around a blood-clot. A local shaman told Temujin’s mother, Hoelun, that her son would go on to conquer the world.

Photo via Pinterest

Genghis’ early life was fraught with danger and hardship, something which may have had a role in forging one of history’s most formidable and terrifying characters. Returning from a successful betrothal (to his future wife, Borte), Temujin’s father was poisoned by a group of Tatars (historic nomadic enemies of the Mongols). Instead of standing by their rightful heir the tribe abandoned Temujin. The future Khan spent the formative years of his life in poverty and in constant fear of death at the hands of his father’s old allies. Despite the difficulties he faced, Temujin managed to battle against the odds and engineer a rise to power through diplomatic marriage, political strategy and outstanding military acumen.

Showcasing his characteristic tenacity and resourcefulness, Temujin made a tactical alliance with the powerful Jin dynasty of northern China, enabling Genghis to unite the unruly Mongolian peoples. He was a brilliant general, but also crucially he appointed men based on merit, rather than birth. This meant that he not only attracted men of great ability to his cause, but also that his armies were led by men who had proved themselves in battle. Jamukha, Genghis’ greatest domestic enemy, was finally toppled and executed and Temujin was proclaimed Chingis Khan, or ‘universal ruler,’ by the Mongol Hordes. For the first time, the formidable Mongol horsemen of the steppe were united. Not a man to be satisfied with his lot, Genghis planned one of the most ambitious invasions in the history of the world: he sent his armies around the Great Wall of China and into the heartlands of his old benefactors, the Jin dynasty and also the Western Xia dynasty. The invasion was the first of many. @TheMcrHistorian

Dan O’Byrne

Over the next twenty-one years, Genghis and his generals conquered modern day northern China, the whole of Central Asia, Persia, Russia and even Hungary. In that time empire after great empire fell to the Mongol horde. The Mongol troops and their leaders were famed for their frightening mobility, savagery and ingenuity. Mongol armies were made up exclusively of cavalry; horse archers were particularly effective. In battle, the enemy would be surrounded and pounded down into submission with hail after hail arrows. The Mongols were also remarkably adaptable. They became masters of siege-warfare, and Genghis’ greatest general, Subutai, is credited with being the first commander history to use artillery in battle, rather than during a siege. The un-matched horsemanship of the Mongol troops coupled with savage fear tactics (namely massacring anyone who opposed them) was the principle reason for this nomadic people’s meteoric rise to prominence.

It is remarkable that Genghis was able to keep the empire together, considering how vast it was. It is testament to his imposing personality and ability to strike fear in his enemies and subjects that his conquests were all successful and no successful rebellions every occurred.

To this day Genghis Khan is remembered as one of the most awesome but terrible characters in history. The Mongol campaigns are believed to have caused the deaths of up to five percent of the world’s population between 1205 and 1227, an absolutely staggering statistic. The Mongols under Genghis were undoubtedly one of the most destructive forces ever to have existed. However, they also have a positive legacy. The unification of the famous silk road enabled unprecedented trade across the whole of Asia and into eastern Europe and the Mongols were remarkably tolerant of other cultures and religions.

Genghis is still revered in his homeland of Mongolia to this day, and a massive statue stand in the capital of Ulaanbaatar.

After the great man died, his empire was split amongst his sons. The successor states expanded the empire even further.

The Mongol legacy is remarkable and Genghis Khan is the man principally responsible for creating it.

Photo via Pinterest

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

What’s Going on Around Manchester?

PICK OF THE GIGS Cloud Nothings – Saturday 18th March – Deaf Institute Glass Animals – Saturday 18th March – Albert Hall Temples – Tuesday 28th March – Academy 2 G Run the Jewels – Friday 31st March – Albert Hall Soulwax – Sunday 9th April – O2 Ritz

OTHER EVENTS ON IN MANCHESTER Andy Warhol Exhibit – The Whitworth Art Gallery – Ends 16th April Andy Warhol shows the sharp critical opinions of an artist known to many primarily as art salesman, purveyor of product and celebrant of capitalism. Supported by Arts Council, Art Fund and Creative Scotland, the exhibition is drawn from ARTIST ROOMS, a collection of international modern and contemporary art owned by National Galleries of Scotland and Tate on behalf of H public. the Focusing on themes of death, politics and identity it presents audiences with Warhol’s reading of the American Dream at a time when the country is under scrutiny following the 2016 US Presidential election. The Warhol exhibition has been based at the Whitworth since November and runs until 16th April so catch it before it’s too late!

If you wish to write reviews for films or events in Manchester please email: manchesterhistorian@gmail.com

Grease at the Palace Theatre – Ends 25th March

It’s the original high-school musical, featuring all the unforgettable songs from the hit movie including You’re The One That I Want, Grease Is The Word, Summer Nights, Hopelessly Devoted To You, Sandy, Greased Lightnin’ and many more.

It’s one of the biggest musicals around, so be quick to catch it in Manchester before 25th March!

Photos above and to right via The University of Manchester

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www.manchesterhistorian.com

ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

HISTORY SOCIETIES History at UoM Happy Spring, everyone! Here’s hoping for some slightly drier and less cold weather to get us through until the start of summer. The upcoming few weeks are going to be a busy time for the History Society, and we’ve got lots of events for you to come along to and get involved with!

History Student Awards - Nominations are now open! If you can think of anyone who has made an outstanding contribution to student life, department culture, welfare, sports or shown great social responsibility, nominate them for a glittering award.

Please email Eloise Moss (eloise.moss@manchester.ac.uk) with your candidate and reasons before Friday, April 28.

Student vs. Staff Charity Football Match - To raise some money for Manchester Mind, the good sports – pun intended -

Muneera Lula in the lecturing staff and History FC are going to play each other in a match that promises to be hilarious on Monday, March 27.

Come cheer on either side and bring your change for a great cause. Cakes and snacks will also be available to buy.

Summer Ball - This one is fairly self-explanatory. This year we’ve teamed up with the Politics Society to bring you an amazing Summer Ball at the Midland Hotel. Tickets are on sale via the HistSoc Facebook group. Grab them early because they do sell out quickly! Dust off that suit and buy a new dress – let’s get all fancied-up for an evening.

Hope everyone is having a great semester so far and has a restful Easter break. Sending good vibes to second and final years for long essays and dissertations.

Peer Mentoring Scheme

Araddhna Patel

As the second term is well underway, Peer Support is now recruiting for mentors for the next academic year. The Peer Mentor scheme offers first years support and advice from students who have been in the same position as them. Freshers are assigned a mentor who is there to help them settle into university life and is available as a point of contact throughout the year.

The History peer mentors will organising a movie night before the end of term, so keep an eye out for more information that will be given to you via Facebook! If you still haven’t joined the Facebook group, just search ‘University of Manchester History Society.’ You are also welcome to join if you’re a joint-honours student or are just a History fanatic like me.

Becoming a mentor is a great way to get more involved in the department, and is incredibly rewarding – it looks good on your CV too. If you are interested, please email Hanna (hanna.matt@ student.manchester.ac.uk) with your name, student ID, course, and year of study by Saturday, March 25. Please direct any questions you have about the training session you will need to attend to Hanna too. Existing mentors need not attend another training session, but please email if you would like to continue in your role.

On another note, a special shout-out must go out to the brilliant Classics and Ancient History team who have made it to the Peer Support University Challenge final. During probably the closest challenge to date, Classics overtook Civil Engineering on the tiebreaker question. The final scores were 115 to Classics and 110 to Civil. We wish them the best of luck for the final!

@TheMcrHistorian

And, finally, the annual Peer Support celebration will be held on Thursday, May 4 – so save the date!

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

History Netball The History Netball squad are continuing their success with their most recent matches seeing an exceptional 25 – 4 win against Medics and a 25 – 17 win against MSUOTC. These victories show that despite a break in training due to availability of the Armitage Centre, the girls are continuing to bring triumph to the History department.

Unfortunately it’s the last year for some girls on the team, including the captain, Charlotte Peacock, who will graduate this summer. However, she is determined to finish on a high. She tells the Manchester Historian: ‘Half way through semester two and the netball girls are on fire! Training is proving really successful from our recent match performances - last week was our greatest win, scoring 25-4 against the medics! I feel like the team is closer than ever this year. I am truly honoured to have had the opportunity to be captain of such a lovely and hardworking team. With only two more matches and a tournament to go, I hope we can push even higher up in the league!’

As many members of the team are third year and will be leaving

History FC After a tumultuous season of highs and lows, the mighty boys in blue march on down the final straight towards what is set to be a nail-biting season finale. Having enjoyed a first half of the season battling for the top spot, losing only two games and conceding seven goals, the men in sky blue looked set to finish for the Christmas break, as our European counterparts insist upon, in the clouds. Settling back into our slick football was never going to be easy after a festive intake of stuffing, pigs in blankets and Lynx Africa.

The team reunited carrying an extra stone or two for their first test of 2017, no not January exams but the Germans. Having lost versatile winger Ollie Brown, remember the name, to some post-Christmas blues, the team continued their winning ways with a convincing 5-1 victory over Deutsche

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Caitlin Hughes this summer, the squad will be looking for new recruits come September. However, they’re not only looking to recruit new first years, any year and ability is welcome, as long as they’re prepared to work hard to win. Not only is netball a good form of exercise, but the girls have enjoyed the social side, having found it a great way to make friends when you study an arguably unsociable course.

If you’re thinking of joining the squad in September, then keep checking your inbox as emails will be sent round in Freshers Week. There are no trials, just an expectation of hard work, a positive attitude and a desire to win! The squad next play MUGS on Wednesday, March 15 so watch this space for more team news!

Scott Doherty

Gesellschaft. However, after a slight dip in form, the liquid football of History seems to have evaporated as the title race heats up. Losing our last two games has hit our confidence, it’ll take the work of an incredible and charismatic captain to guide History back onto the path of success, until then they’ll have to settle for your humble reporter. With six games remaining it’s all to play for.

With the Premier League all but wrapped up by Chelsea, come and watch the real men in blue play the game down in Wythenshawe. If you don’t fancy the X41 bus, why not come and watch History FC take on the History Department at the Armitage on March 27th; I can’t promise you sunshine, but can promise you a fun night on a Monday at 6pm. We will also be raising money for Mind, the charity - so bring cash!

Photo at top via Caitlin Hughes; Photo at bottom via Pinterest

www.manchesterhistorian.com

ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

Women in Media Conference Review On the March 4 - 5, the weekend preceding International Women’s Day, a group of twelve students from the Manchester Media Group hosted the Women in Media Conference 2017, the second annual conference celebrating the successes of women across the media and inspiring the next generation of female journalists, producers, and media professionals.

The conference was founded in 2016 when we noticed that there was a lack of female involvement in student media at the University of Manchester, and we sought to change that by empowering women of all ages from across Manchester and the UK to come and hear from an exciting array of amazing women working in the media.

This year, the conference was supported by Amnesty International UK and the NUS, and it all kicked off with a ‘Journalism Under Threat’ panel featuring Sue Turton, one of the Al Jazeera journalists convicted of treason in Egypt. We had sports journalism talks, documentary workshops, radio presenting sessions, and a YouTube panel featuring Grace Victory and Lucy Moon, as well as panels on BAME representation in the media, LGBTQI+ women and their media careers, and an inspiring session with Julie Hesmondhalgh, Katie Thistleton and Anna Youssef, ‘Our Manchester Women’.

The highlights for many were two incredible keynotes: the first was from BBC Breakfast’s Steph McGovern, who discussed her hugely successful career move from engineering to business journalism, her North-East accent and its role in her work at the BBC, oh, and that time she interviewed Donald Trump, all with non-stop laughter from the enraptured audience. Harriet Minter, founder and former editor of The Guardian’s Women in Leadership section, and advocate for women in the media and beyond, roused the crowd with her inspirational stories of never giving up and pushing for what she believed in, and may left feeling particularly inspired to go out into the world of the media and make a name for themselves.

It was a hugely successful weekend and one that will go down in history at the Manchester Media Group, having raised hundreds of pounds for MASH (Manchester Action on Street Health) and created incredible opportunities for learning, networking, and being inspired, all right here in Manchester.

Your Careers Update!

The countdown to Easter is now officially on, which is great news for all those stressed-out students. It’s really important to be thinking about careers now, especially if you are a final year and haven’t spent much time researching this. Worry not, however; we have tons of information from The Careers Service to give to you all. They are always happy to meet students individually as well, so feel free to go to the Atrium (first floor of University Place) to book an appointment or get more advice. Check out CareersLink and the History Society Facebook group for more information. Below are some of the highlights: Meet the History Grads - Meet the History Grads is back on Thursday, March 16! This was a really popular event last year and is a great opportunity to see where people that once studied history degrees at Manchester have ended up. It’s the perfect excuse for networking and there will be lots of free food and wine too. What’s not to love?

Gemma Sowerby

Araddhna Patel Working Abroad in Summer - Are you interested in spending your summer working in a different country? This is a great way to push yourself out of your comfort zone, build your CV and get in a bit of travelling. What’s more, you would be earning cash (and simultaneously getting your parents off your back about being productive in the holidays!) Check out the UoM Careers website for more information.

Dimensions Presents: The Networking Event - On Thursday, April 27 from 4-6pm, Dimensions will be hosting a networking event at the University of Manchester. The event will involve guest speakers discussing grad schemes with a Q&A session and breakout workshops afterwards involving CV work and interview skills. This will allow students of the university to network with senior managers. Admission is free, so get your tickets now to secure a place!

Whether you are interested in these events or not, keep going with your own research! If you are really struggling, speak to your academic advisor, and if you don’t know where to start, join one of the appropriate Facebook groups – just search First/ Second/Final Years Careers - UoM Humanities.

Good luck in your Careers search!

Photo above via Women In Media Conference on Facebook; Photo to left via The University of Manchester Careers Service on Facebook

@TheMcrHistorian

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ISSUE 26 | MARCH 2017

MANCHESTER HISTORIAN MANCHESTER HISTORIAN is changing READ IT, WRITE IT

The Manchester Historian is a newspaper run for students by students.

Anyone currently attending the University of Manchester is able to write for it. You can write an article, do an interview with a staff member, or review a historical, book or play.

View all of our previous issues at http://issuu.com/manchesterhistorian No experience is necessary; we are simply looking for an interested and enthusiastic team of contributors. We welcome article suggestions too, so whether you’d like to write it or not, please contact our editors Araddhna and Will at any time during the year with ideas.

GET IN TOUCH:

f: facebook.com/TheManchesterHistorian t: @TheMcrHistorian w: www.manchesterhistorian.com e: manchesterhistorian@gmail.com i: @manchesterhistorian Photo below via University of Manchester History Society on Facebook

Behind every story‌ There is History

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