Simply Colchester Issue 98 by Simplycolchester

Issue 98

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Year of Celebration: November events The huge Year of Celebration events programme continues throughout November and December, as Colchester continues to celebrate its first year as a modern city with a programme of events, activities and milestones. A fantastic programme of events taking place across the city centre and surrounding towns and villages. From world class exhibitions at museums and galleries to incredible art, performance and live music events all celebrating this historic year in Colchester's history.

1. 4 November: Colchester Castle Park Fireworks

To celebrate Colchester's city status, historic charters dating back to the reign of King Edward III in 1364 are online to view.

2. 15 November: Colchester Christmas Light Switch On

6. Now, until 1 December 2023: Under Siege exhibition at Colchester Castle

3. 17-19 November, Wivenhoe Art Trail

7. Now, until 18 January 2024: The Colchester Globes, various locations

The events coming up in November are:

4. 25 November – 24 December: The Magic of Christmas at Colchester Zoo 5. Now, until 31 December 2023: Online Exhibition: City Celebration

Jack Whitehall to bring live comedy tour to Colchester next month

8. Now, until 14 January 2024: Gladiators, A Day at the Roman Games, Colchester Castle

9. 10 November: Gladiators: ‘Those Who Are About To Quiz Salute You’, Colchester Castle 10. 25 November – 14 January 2024: Sleeping Beauty, Mercury Theatre Join the extra-special programme of celebratory events marking this historic year for Colchester: www.visitcolchester.com/ yearofcelebration and keep checking back as more will be added.

on Word Search Answers page 8

at Charter Hall’s 1200-seat venue to sell out in March 2023. Colchester audiences who enjoyed the rare opportunity to see Jack test drive his new material will now get the chance to come back and see his highly anticipated new live show. Colchester Events is delighted to announce that international comedy superstar, Jack Whitehall, is to bring his brand new live comedy show ‘Settle Down’ to Colchester’s Charter Hall on 7 November 2023. Following three complete sell-out arena tours, Jack is eager to get back on the road doing what he does best – delighting audiences! Jack says: “This is my most personal show yet, with plenty of material about the big changes that have happened in my life. It’s about my struggle to settle down gracefully. I’ve got a long-term partner, a ridiculous dog and am now hurtling towards middle aged without a clue. It’s about a foppish man-child’s cack-handed attempt at adulting!” It took just 40 minutes for tickets to Jack Whitehall's ‘Warming Up’ show

Jack made humorous reference to his appearance at Charter Hall on national TV earlier this year when he appeared on the Jonathan Ross Show: Jack Whitehall Talks Clifford The Big Red Dog | The Jonathan Ross Show YouTube “If you’re going to do arena comedy, this is how to do it” – THE TIMES “May well be the most spectacular arena stand-up show ever” – EVENING STANDARD “Jack Whitehall's refusal to grow up is just what we need right now” – THE TELEGRAPH Tickets to ‘Settle Down’ go on general sale from 10am on Monday, 9 October 2023 For more information visit: www.colchester-events.co.uk/event/ jack-whitehall-settle-down

Antechinus Blobfish Box jellyfish Cassowary Crocodile Dingo

Echidna Emu Kangaroo Koala Kookaburra Lyrebird

Numbat Perth Platypus Possum Quokka Rakali

River turtle Stonefish Taipan Wallaby Wombat Woylie

Issue 97

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Simply Magazine assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The information contained about each individual, event or organization has been provided by such individual, event organizers or organization without verification by us. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Simply Magazine. Therefore, Simply Magazine carries no responsibility for the opinion expressed thereon. Any form of reproduction of any content without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. For information on advertising or submitting a article please email David Cook at: Simplycolchester@gmail.com or call 01206 233717 / 07734 171985

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A Good Read other in the aftermath, where society grapples with the consequences. Maughan's prose is both evocative and insightful, capturing the tension and unease of a world suddenly thrust into chaos. Through a cast of compelling characters, he explores how our reliance on technology shapes our identities, relationships, and perceptions.

Infinite Detail by Tim Maughan Maughan’s debut novel is a mesmerizing and thought-provoking exploration of a future world shattered by the sudden collapse of the internet. Set in a nearfuture dystopia, Maughan skilfully navigates the intricacies of a society that has lost its digital connectivity and the profound impact it has on both individuals and the collective consciousness. The novel weaves together two narrative threads: one set in the days leading up to the 'Zero Day' event, when the internet vanishes, and the

Maughan's vision of a postinternet world is hauntingly vivid, painting a picture of a society in disarray, where once-thriving cities become desolate and communities fragment. As characters navigate this new reality, the author delves into themes of power, surveillance, and the blurred lines between the virtual and the real. The novel's exploration of the human condition amidst technological collapse is deeply resonant, inviting readers to contemplate their own relationship with the digital realm. It’s a cautionary tale; a portrait of the fragility of our current status quo, and it is as thought-provoking as it is terrifying; you won’t ever take your Wi-Fi for granted again.

Time Travelling with a Hamster by Ross Welford This is a delightful and heartwarming novel aimed at young readers aged 8-12. It masterfully combines the complexities of time travel with a touching exploration of family bonds and personal growth. The story follows Al Chaudhury, a twelveyear-old boy who stumbles upon a time machine built by his late father. Filled with a mix of curiosity and determination, Al embarks on a mission to change the past and save his father's life. Welford's writing is imbued with a genuine sense of wonder and a keen understanding of a young person’s perspective. Al goes on a rollercoaster adventure through time, navigating paradoxes and unforeseen consequences with pluck and humour. Al's interactions with his pet hamster, a hilarious and unlikely companion in his journey, add a nice touch of whimsy to the story. This is a beautiful novel about the emotional complexity of loss, and the lengths one is willing to go to mend a fractured family. Al's

relationship with his late father, the mystery surrounding his last words, and the bond he shares with his unconventional grandfather all contribute to the novel's emotional depth. Through the intricacies of time travel, the author explores the idea that every action has a ripple effect, highlighting the importance of accepting the past while embracing the present. Time Travelling with a Hamster captures the essence of childhood curiosity, resilience, and the power of love. It effortlessly weaves together science fiction elements with relatable coming-of-age experiences, making it a captivating read for young readers and adults alike. Tash Donovan

Boost Your Immune System

Time to bolster your natural immunity to this season’s bugs and viruses. Here are our top tips. Get outside – There are many benefits to being out in nature. Fresh air makes us feel better and exposure to sunlight boosts vitamin D levels. Research suggests this helps prevent chronic illness, improves bone health, and can even ease depression. When you’re at home, open a window or two and let the air in your home circulate. Rebreathing the same stale air can increase our chances of getting sick and leave us feeling less than invigorated. Have an early night - Sleep might be the single most important factor in regulating our immune function. Studies show that people who are sleep deprived are more likely to get sick after being exposed to a virus. The science says that sleep is important for our systems to ‘remember’ how to fight off infections. Reduce stress – Stressed bodies are in fight-or-flight mode. This part of our nervous system was designed to help us escape from predators. Unfortunately, it also suppresses the immune response, leaving us more

Crossword

prone to illness and infection. Rest, practicing mindfulness, and taking time out just for us will improve our mental health and decrease stress levels, allowing our immune system to recover. Eat well – Healthy food can help improve our sleep hygiene, our concentration, and our energy levels. Citrus fruits are packed full of vitamin C, as are red peppers; ginger and turmeric are anti-inflammatory; nuts and seeds contain vitamin E; garlic is high in sulphur making it an effective antiviral agent; dark berries are packed full of ani-oxidants; shellfish are a good source of zinc, and carrots and sweet potatoes are high in betacarotene. Exercise - Physical activity doesn’t just boost the immune system it moderates it. Regular exercise helps prevent the immune response from becoming overactive. It also lowers cholesterol, blood pressure, and the risk of heart disease and helps us sleep better. These five tips should have you bouncing through November and into the festive season.

Across

Down

chaos, uproar (6)

congratulations, adoration (6) 2

anticipates with horror (6)

clippers (6)

assemble, collect (6)

fashionable, stylish (6)

heaved, puffed (6)

administer, distribute (4)

hopeless and downtrodden (6)

small flat metal ring (6)

without pips or kernels (8)

stippled (6)

bill of fare (4)

acclaimed, recognised (6)

semi-aquatic snake (8)

alcove (6)

harbinger, portent (4)

at that time (4)

offer a higher price (6)

type of straw hat (6)

band (6)

request, summon (6)

careless (6)

seat for riding (6)

begrudges, yearns (6)

as night falls (6)

mute (6)

allot, grant (6)

By Sarah Davey

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St. Andrew's Day - Nov 30th The Enduring Relevance of How did St Andrew (who never set foot War Poets - Remembrance in Scotland) become its patron Saint? Sunday – November 12th Many of us studied the War Poets at school. Our children may be studying them now. Have you ever asked yourself why? War poets, as a collective, have been instrumental in capturing the essence of conflict, the human costs of warfare, and the profound emotional experiences of soldiers and civilians alike. These poets, primarily from World War I and II, painted vivid pictures of the battlefield, the trenches, and the emotional toll of war, creating lasting impressions that would shape our understanding of conflict for generations.

Born in Bethsaida on the Sea of Galilee, Andrew was the brother of Peter. Before following Jesus, both brothers were fishermen. In Christian tradition, St. Andrew was known for his strong faith and fervent devotion, and he is credited with being the first apostle and introducing his brother to Jesus. His missionary journeys are believed to have included areas like Greece, Turkey, and possibly parts of modern-day Russia and Poland. However, what ties St. Andrew to Scotland is not his life but the manner of his martyrdom and subsequent legends. After Jesus died, Andrew continued to preach about Jesus and his teachings. The Roman rulers took exception to this and martyred Andrew for his beliefs. Andrew was crucified on an X-Shaped cross, called “Crux Decussata”, more commonly known as the Saltire, or St. Andrew’s Cross. The story goes that Andrew chose to be crucified this way because he deemed himself unworthy to be crucified on the same type of cross

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as had been used for Jesus. This symbol was ultimately adopted for the national flag of Scotland. The connection with Scotland deepened with legends suggesting that some of St. Andrew's relics were brought to Scotland by St. Regulus. He was said to be guided by a divine vision to take these relics to the "ends of the earth" for safekeeping. His journey led him to the east coast of Scotland, to a place now known as St. Andrews, which made the town a major pilgrimage site in medieval times. St Andrew has been celebrated in Scotland for over one thousand years, with feasts being held in his honour as far back as the year 1000 AD. However, it wasn't until 1320, when Scotland's independence was declared with the signing of The Declaration of Arbroath, that he officially became Scotland's patron saint. By Sarah Davey

During World War I, poets like Wilfred Owen, Siegfried Sassoon, and Rupert Brooke detailed the grim realities of life on the front lines. Unlike the romanticized versions of war often portrayed in the media, these poets presented war for what it was: bloody, brutal, and often senseless. Owen's Dulce et Decorum est is a poignant example, decrying the false glory of dying for one's country and highlighting the horrors faced by soldiers. Sassoon, on the other hand, critiqued the military establishment and the war's futility, creating an enduring legacy of anti-war literature. The significance of war poetry, especially from the early 20th century, lies in its capacity to humanize statistics. Millions perished during the World Wars, but numbers alone cannot communicate the suffering of individuals, nor the grieving of families left behind. The war poets gave voice to this pain, ensuring that the personal experiences of those affected by conflict would not be forgotten. Their works serve as a stark reminder of the costs of war, urging caution and diplomacy over aggression and conflict. While World War I poets are perhaps the most renowned, poets from subsequent conflicts have continued the tradition.

World War II poets, including Keith Douglas and Alun Lewis, grappled with the vast scale of the conflict and the devastation wrought by the atom bomb and concentration camps. Today, the legacy of war poetry is more relevant than ever. As the world grapples with new forms of conflict, including cyber warfare, drone strikes, and ideological battles, the need for voices to humanize and critique these events remains important. Brian Turner, who served in Iraq, tackles issues of PTSD, the civilian cost in modern warfare, and the mental turmoil soldiers experience when reintegrating into civilian life. Turner's Here, Bullet is a raw, visceral look into the Iraq war, encapsulating the tension and unpredictability that modern soldiers face. Poets like Dunya Mikhail, an Iraqi expatriate, write of the effects of war on the homeland, and bridge the gap between soldier and civilian experiences. Today, warfare and its aftermath can be relayed around the world instantly. Poetry offers a space for reflection, allowing readers to consider the personal experiences behind the headlines. Through evocative imagery and emotional depth, war poetry humanizes the dehumanized, reminding us of the shared humanity that binds us, even in times of conflict. War poets, hold a mirror to society, forcing us to confront the realities of conflict and the profound impact it has on individuals and communities. Their works serve as both a cautionary tale and a call to compassion, urging current and future generations to seek paths of peace and understanding. As global conflicts continue to evolve, the voices of war poets remain an essential tool in making sense of the chaos. By Brian Allen

Pear and Chocolate Pudding Cake A light and luscious cake using in-season pears.

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 40 minutes

Serves: 8

Ingredients 85g butter, plus 1 tbsp extra for tin

85g hazelnuts or almonds, toasted and ground in a food processor.

85g golden caster sugar, plus extra for tin 85g gluten-free dark chocolate, broken into pieces.

4 very ripe pears, peeled, halved, and cored. Icing sugar, for dusting

1 tbsp brandy 3 eggs, separated.

Method Grease the sides of a 25cm loosebottomed cake tin and line the base with baking parchment. Sprinkle in 2 tbsp caster sugar and swirl it around to coat the base and sides, then tip out any excess. Preheat the oven to 180C/fan 160C/ gas 4. Melt the chocolate and butter in

a bowl over a pan of hot water, remove from the heat, stir in the brandy and leave to cool. Whisk the egg yolks with the caster sugar in a large bowl until pale and thick; then fold into the cooled chocolate along with the ground hazelnuts or almonds.

In a separate bowl, with a clean whisk, beat the whites until they reach a soft peak (don't over beat). Stir a spoonful of the whites into the chocolate mix, then carefully fold in the rest of them in. Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin. Level it off, then arrange the pears over the mixture, cut side

down. Bake for about 40 mins until the pears are soft and the cake is cooked all the way through. Leave to cool in the tin for five minutes before releasing it, then place on a rack to cool completely. Dust with icing sugar and serve with crème fraîche.

absorbing and storing carbon dioxide, they mitigate the greenhouse effect, helping to cool our warming planet. Forests worldwide store more than 296 gigatons of carbon, acting as crucial carbon sinks. Forests, rich with trees of all kinds, are hotspots of biodiversity. They provide habitat, food, and protection to countless species, from the tallest giraffes nibbling on treetop leaves in Africa, to the smallest beetles burrowing in the bark of rainforest trees. Without trees, many of these habitats would be lost, leading to massive declines in biodiversity.

Garden View Trees: heroes of nature Trees have graced our planet for over 370 million years, offering a range of benefits that render them indispensable to life as we know it. National Tree Week (25th November3rd December) celebrates the many reasons why trees are the champions of the natural world and why we should all plant a tree today.

carbon dioxide reduction. Through photosynthesis they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, a vital element for most organisms on Earth. A mature leafy tree can produce as much oxygen in a season as 10 people inhale in a year. By cleansing the air, trees essentially act as the lungs of our planet.

Every school student learns that trees play a pivotal role in the process of

Trees are formidable warriors in the battle against climate change. By

Trees play an essential role in maintaining the health and integrity of our soil. Their root systems anchor the soil, preventing erosion, particularly in areas susceptible to landslides or during heavy rainfall. Furthermore, fallen leaves decompose and enrich the soil with nutrients, promoting a healthy ground ecosystem. Trees significantly influence the water cycle. They absorb rainfall and produce water vapour through transpiration, which is then released into the atmosphere. This process not only aids in cloud formation but also

ensures that water is recycled back into our environment through rain, maintaining a balanced ecosystem. In urban environments, trees act as natural air conditioners. Their shade cools down streets and cities, reducing the need for air conditioning in nearby buildings and lowering energy costs. Moreover, trees absorb and block sunlight, reducing the heat island effect common in urban areas. Recent studies have highlighted the health benefits associated with trees. Proximity to green spaces with trees, has been linked to reduced stress, lower depression rates, and increased physical activity. Furthermore, trees filter out pollutants, providing cleaner air and reducing the rates of respiratory illnesses. The multifaceted roles trees play in sustaining life on Earth means that we should be protecting them and planting more. In a rapidly changing world they are the stewards of our world and it is our duty to recognize their value, protect them, and ensure they continue to thrive for generations to come. Happy gardening. By Rachael Leverton

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An Eggs-ellent LunchIn praise of the omelette Eggs are always a satisfying and easy lunch choice, and the omelette is the King of the egg dishes. Eggs are packed with essential nutrients. They're a natural source of high-quality proteins, essential amino acids, and crucial vitamins like B12 and D. Additionally, the yolk contains choline, an essential nutrient that supports brain health. By munching a lunchtime omelette, you're nourishing your body with vital nutrients to keep you energized throughout the afternoon. The beauty of the omelette is its adaptability. Whether you crave a simple cheese and herb mix or an exotic blend of veggies, meats, and spices, the omelette can be customized to suit every palate. This

means it's nearly impossible to get bored with omelettes. In this fast-paced world spending hours in the kitchen at lunchtime isn't feasible. Omelettes are quick to prepare and cook. All you need is a hot pan, a few ingredients, and a delicious omelette can be yours in mere minutes. Regardless of your dietary preferences or restrictions (unless you’re allergic to eggs in which case I am deeply sorry for writing about omelettes!) there is an omelette for you. From low-carb and keto to vegetarian or low calorie, the omelette can be tailored to align with your needs.

This means you can enjoy a gourmetstandard meal without a high-end price tag.

And omelettes are easy on the wallet. Eggs are affordable, and the fillings don't require large quantities.

With their combination of nutrition, versatility, convenience, and affordability omelettes are a standout

choice for lunch. So, the next time you're pondering over what to eat for your mid-day meal, consider the humble yet delicious omelette. By Louise Addison

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Bullying from Both Sides What if your child is bullied? What if your child is the bully?

iscovering that your child is being bullied can be heartwrenching. Acting decisively and compassionately is key. Here are some vital steps to support your child and address the situation:

themselves without resorting to violence or aggression. Encourage Social Skills: Enrol your child in clubs or groups where they can make friends outside of school and boost their confidence.

Listen Actively: Create a safe space where your child can express their feelings without fear of judgment. Let them share the entire story, assuring them that their feelings are valid.

Monitor Online Activity: Cyberbullying is a growing concern. Regularly check your child's online interactions and ensure they're aware of online safety.

Document Everything: Make a record of each bullying incident, including dates, times, locations, and individuals involved. This can be crucial if interventions are necessary.

Finally, consider professional counselling if your child continues to show signs of emotional distress. Addressing bullying is a collective effort, and being proactive can make all the difference.

Communicate with the School: Schedule a meeting with your child's teacher or school counsellor to discuss the situation. Share your concerns and the information you've documented. Not all schools are receptive so document everything in case you need to take things further.

The flip side to having a bullied child is discovering your child is bullying others. It’s a tough pill to swallow but it’s crucial to address the behaviour and guide them towards positive change.

Empower Your Child: Teach your child effective communication skills, emphasising the importance of standing up for

Stay Calm and Objective: Reacting emotionally might shut down any open communication. Approach your child with a desire to understand their actions and feelings.

Initiate a Dialogue: Ask open-ended questions to get to the root of their behaviour. Is it peer pressure, feelings of inadequacy, or a cry for attention? Set Clear Boundaries: Make it abundantly clear that bullying is unacceptable. Discuss consequences for continued negative behaviour. Foster Empathy: Encourage activities that promote understanding and empathy, such as reading books or watching movies that touch on the subject. Engage the School: Work with teachers and counsellors to monitor your child's behaviour and

ensure they're receiving consistent messages about respect and kindness. Seek Professional Help: Consider counselling if the behaviour persists. A professional can provide tools and strategies to address underlying issues. Be a Role Model: Children often emulate adult behaviour. Ensure that you're modelling kindness, respect, and understanding in your interactions. Addressing bullying requires commitment, patience, and support. By confronting the issue and guiding your child, you can instigate real, positive change. By Tracey Anderson

Sudoku

How to play Sudoku Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.

You don’t need to be a genius. These puzzles use logic alone. Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.

As our fireworks took off, they all went in different directions before they went BANG! Can you work out which firework made which pattern?

W S K S R A W O D H R E W I F I U U G S P R X P R S K F U H S O L A P U M B Y E U A R N P O O L S E V L G N M L L J Q A F F Q E N F Q R V F S Z I O S F B C V K Z M L R K Q Q A T H O E R I Q Q O S R N S X W T M M C D J G R S L E O K L A R S P

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Mixed-Up Fireworks Answers 1-E 2-D 3-C 4-A 5-B

Word Search Answers 14

How Secure is Your Wi-Fi? How much thought do you give to your home Wi-Fi security? Probably not enough. An insecure home Wi-Fi network means that outsiders can easily access it, and as well as using your internet for free, they can exploit it for malicious activities. They could access data on devices connected to that network, including passwords, financial data, personal photos, and confidential documents. Someone could even use your network to engage in illegal activities online which could be traced back to you. Even if unauthorized users aren't engaging in malicious activity, the added traffic can lead to network congestion, resulting in reduced performance for legitimate users. Wi-Fi security might seem daunting, but it’s more about taking the right steps than it is about technical complexity. Here are areas where people often slip up: Setup: Adjusting router settings feels like a chore, but investing a little time now can prevent problems later. Make it a point to familiarize yourself with your router’s control panel. Aging Routers: Don’t mistake a working router for a secure one. Old routers might not receive crucial

security updates, making them potential targets. Consider upgrading if your router is out of date. Neglecting Firmware Updates: Regular updates not only provide security patches but also improve router performance. Ensure automatic updates are enabled. Weak Passwords: Opt for a robust Wi-Fi password. Avoid easily guessable passwords like "password" or "12345678", or your surname! Default Admin Passwords: Replace the generic passwords e.g., ‘admin’, that your router came with to prevent unauthorized access. Using Outmoded Security Protocols: Move beyond outdated encryption like WEP or even WPA. WPA3 is the newest standard, so look for routers that support it.

Ignoring Guest Networks: Use the guest network feature for visitors to keep them separate from your primary network. This limits their access to sensitive files and devices. Smart Devices on Main Network: Assign smart home gadgets to a guest network. This prevents potential security lapses from affecting your main devices.

Enabled Vulnerable Services: Disable insecure features like Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) and Universal Plug and Play (UPnP), which can be easily exploited.

NOTE Hiding your Wi-Fi network means disabling the "SSID broadcast" feature on your router, making the network name (SSID) invisible to most users. While it might seem like a smart security measure, there are several problems associated with it:

Unnecessary Remote Access: Unless essential, turn off remote access to your router to prevent external threats.

It can give you a false sense of security, because hiding your SSID doesn't make your network invisible to everyone. People with the right tools

or software can still detect hidden networks and their SSIDs. Also, every time you want to add a new device to your network, you'll need to manually input the SSID and password since the network won't appear in the list of available Wi-Fi connections. This can be inconvenient and troublesome, especially for less tech-savvy individuals. Most importantly hiding your SSID is not a substitute for implementing robust security measures, such as strong encryption (like WPA3) and a solid password. Hopefully I’ve helped you understand a little better how to protect your home Wi-Fi so that you can stream and surf safely. By Tom Hancock

What’s the story behind America’s Iconic Celebration? Every year, on the fourth Thursday of November, Americans gather with friends and family to indulge in a turkey feast. Thanksgiving is one of the most iconic and cherished American holidays. But how did it come to exist? Thanksgiving can be traced back to 1620 when a group of English settlers, known as the Pilgrims, arrived on the shores of present-day Massachusetts aboard the Mayflower. Fleeing religious persecution from the Church of England, they sought to start a life in the New World. But their first winter in America was brutal and nearly half of the 102 settlers died. The romanticised history goes that Pilgrims encountered an Englishspeaking Native American named Squanto. He and members of the Wampanoag tribe taught the settlers how to fish, cultivate corn, and extract maple from trees. With these skills, the settlers were able to sustain themselves, and in the autumn of 1621, they experienced a bountiful harvest. To express their gratitude and celebrate, the Pilgrims organized a three-day festivity and invited the Wampanoag tribe, including their leader, Chief Massasoit. The feast included dishes made from the

harvested crops, though the meat was probably deer rather than turkey. In reality, much bloodshed took place both before and after that first feast, and it was Massasoit who negotiated a treaty between the settlers and the Wampanoag tribe, which included an agreement that no member of either group would harm anyone from the other, and that they would leave their weapons at home when trading. This lasted for a decade, with the pilgrims trading English goods for Wampanoag land, access to natural resources and other assets. But tensions began to simmer as 25,000 more European colonizers arrived, claiming rights to land, and bringing with them diseases which decimated the native population. Mistrust between the two groups grew and the Native Americans were viewed as the enemy of the pilgrims, with horrifying consequences. Although the 1621 feast is recognized as the first Thanksgiving, the practice of celebrating the harvest did not immediately become an annual tradition. Days of Thanksgiving were held, but they were sporadic and varied in nature: some were religious, others more like parties.

By the 19th century Thanksgiving began to resemble the modern national holiday. Sarah Josepha Hale, the author of the nursery rhyme “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” played a pivotal role. She embarked on a 20-year campaign to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday, lobbying politicians, presidents, and other influential figures. In 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln declared the last Thursday of November as a National Day of Thanksgiving. He hoped the holiday would help unify a nation torn apart by conflict.

Over the years, the traditions and meanings behind Thanksgiving have evolved and diversified. Today, Thanksgiving is a time for reflection, gratitude, and spending time with loved ones, (though it’s important to acknowledge that mistreatment of Native Americans still goes on). It’s also a time for parades, football, and Black Friday sales. Yet despite its transformation over the centuries, the core values of ‘giving thanks’ remain unchanged and it remains a significant part of American culture. By Kate McCarthy

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