Stonehenge was built by black Britons, children’s history book claims
Telegraph
23-09-18 22:40
A new children's history book called Brilliant Black British History claims that Stonehenge was built by black Britons. The book, written by Atinuke and published by Bloomsbury, states that "the very first Britons were black" and that Britain was a "black country" for more than 7,000 years before white people arrived. The claims have been criticised by historians who argue that the book contains misinformation. Recent genetic analysis has shown that the inhabitants of Britain during the period when Stonehenge was built were pale-skinned farmers whose ancestors came from Anatolia.
Brazil's Lula pitches his nation - and himself - as fresh leader for Global South
The Toronto Star
23-09-19 04:40
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will address the United Nations General Assembly for the first time since 2009. Lula has been working to reposition Brazil on the international stage and cast himself as a leader of the Global South. He has visited 21 countries in recent months, seeking to boost Brazil's credibility and advocate for global governance that gives greater power to the Global South. Lula has refused to side with the US or China and has called for a club of nations to mediate peace talks in Ukraine. His comments and actions have raised eyebrows in Washington and drawn criticism. Lula is expected to give a strong speech in defense of the Global South, a multipolar order, and the need for wealthy countries to pay their fair share on climate issues. Lula's address will reflect Brazil's longstanding demands, including a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, and his efforts to reposition Brazil on the international stage.
Brazil's Lula pitches his nation — and himself — as fresh leader for Global South
The Independent
23-09-19 04:39
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will address the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, marking his return to the international stage since taking office earlier this year. Lula has been on a whirlwind tour of the world, visiting 21 countries and seeking to boost Brazil's international reputation. He has advocated for global governance that gives greater weight to the Global South and has called for a reduction in the dominance of the US dollar in international trade. Lula has refused to take sides in conflicts between major powers and has called for a club of nations to mediate peace talks in Ukraine and review Brazil's membership in the International Criminal Court. He has also criticized US policy towards Cuba and Venezuela. Lula's speech at the UN is expected to focus on defending the Global South and advocating for a multipolar world order. He is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with US President Joe Biden on Wednesday.
Brazil’s Lula pitches his nation — and himself — as fresh leader for Global South
Associated Press
23-09-19 04:39
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is set to address the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, marking his return to the global stage after his re-election victory last year. Lula has been on a whirlwind international tour in recent months, visiting 21 countries and seeking to boost Brazil's reputation as a leader of the Global South. During his travels, Lula has pushed for global governance that gives greater influence to developing countries, advocated for diminishing the dollar's dominance in trade, and called for peace talks in Ukraine to be mediated by a club of nations rather than the US and Western Europe. His comments on these issues have already raised eyebrows in Washington, and it is expected that he will use his speech at the UN to champion the causes of the Global South and call on wealthy countries to pay their fair share on climate issues. Lula is also scheduled to meet with US President Joe Biden on Wednesday, and it is anticipated that they will discuss their shared agenda for Venezuela.
Long-secret Canadian intelligence sealed Avro Arrow's cancellation, new paper says
The Toronto Star
23-09-19 08:00
The Canadian government's decision to cancel the Avro Arrow in 1959 was influenced by intelligence that suggested a diminishing need for the interceptor aircraft in the evolving Cold War. The intelligence highlighted the Soviet Union's shift away from manned bombers to long-range ballistic missiles, indicating that interceptors like the Arrow would play a smaller role in the defense of North America. This research paper sheds new light on the episode and challenges the myths that have grown up around the Arrow's demise. The paper's author, Alan Barnes, used classified records obtained through the Access to Information Act to provide a more complete picture of the decisions surrounding the Arrow. He argues that the cancellation of the Arrow was influenced by a combination of factors, including the changing strategic threat, the escalating cost of the program, and political considerations.
The queen of wine still making fine vintages at the age of 98
Telegraph
23-09-19 12:59
May-Eliane de Lencquesaing, the former proprietor of Bordeaux château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, has discussed her decision to establish a vineyard and make great wines in South Africa at the age of 78. Now 98 years old, de Lencquesaing oversees Glenelly estate from her home in Switzerland and is known for her meticulous attention to detail. She still takes regular calls from the viticulture manager and winemaker and has an opinion on every aspect of the winery and vineyard. De Lencquesaing's goal was to produce a world-class wine in South Africa, and critics believe she has succeeded with her top red, Lady May.
De Lencquesaing’s journey in the wine industry began when she took over the running of Château Pichon Comtesse following a legal battle with her siblings. She initially did not want to take on the responsibility but went on to transform the estate’s fortunes through her tireless stewardship. In the late 1980s, de Lencquesaing visited South Africa and fell in love with the country and its wines. She noticed that South African wines were winning awards for their quality and decided to invest in the region. In 2003, she bought land in Stellenbosch and established Glenelly estate.
In 2006, de Lencquesaing made the difficult decision to sell a majority interest in Pichon Comtesse to the owners of Louis Roederer Champagne. Her children were not interested in winemaking, and she believed that running a winery required a hands-on approach. She wanted Glenelly to be independent, so she made the decision to move to South Africa. Critics believe that she has achieved her goal of producing world-class wines, with her top red, Lady May, receiving praise for its quality and attention to detail.
Long-secret Canadian intelligence sealed Avro Arrow’s cancellation, new paper says
The Globe and Mail
23-09-19 12:08
New research claims that Canadian intelligence played a significant role in the decision to cancel the Avro Arrow in 1959. The research highlights that intelligence reports indicated a diminishing need for the expensive interceptor aircraft in the evolving Cold War. The reports showed that the Soviet Union was shifting away from manned bombers to long-range ballistic missiles, which suggested that interceptors like the Arrow would play a smaller role in the defence of North America. The research argues that these strategic intelligence assessments, which were long overlooked in the debate over the Arrow’s demise, now provide a fuller understanding of the decision-making process.
Michael Caine interview: ‘Everybody’s going to die – at least I’ve lived to f---ing 90’
Telegraph
23-09-19 18:00
Actor Michael Caine has revealed that he has written a thriller novel, which will be published in November. The book, titled 'Deadly Game', was inspired by a newspaper story Caine read about rubbish collectors finding pieces of plutonium in their dust cart. The story has been turned into a cat-and-mouse tale with a cast of characters including a London detective, a Russian oligarch, a dodgy art dealer, and a Colombian drug cartel. Caine, who is 90, says that the best thing about being 90 is that people do things for you. The worst thing, he says, is that so much disappears from your life.
Men in ‘frightening’ Nazi uniforms clash with locals at 1940s festival
Telegraph
23-09-19 16:39
A group of men dressed in Nazi uniforms sparked a brawl at a Second World War-themed festival in Sheringham, Norfolk. The group of around 10 men were confronted by onlookers who shouted that they were not welcome. Police were called and the men were escorted away. The men were part of a re-enactment group called the Eastern Front Living History Group, which raises money for military veterans. The incident has led to calls for Nazi uniforms to be banned from future events.
Canada’s deepest lake feeling immediate effects of climate change, new research finds
The Globe and Mail
23-09-19 23:00
Researchers investigating Great Slave Lake in Canada have discovered that its species of plankton, which form the basis of the lake’s food chain, have been replaced. The study, the first of its kind since the 1990s, found “almost complete shifts” in diatom species, single-celled algae that provide a primary food source, in sediment cores analysed from the lake bed. The research shows that the lake has changed considerably in the past 25 years, with “profound” implications for the entire ecosystem. The Great Slave Lake is the largest body of freshwater in the country and one of the largest in the world.
Rise of the Nazis: the Manhunt, review: why we must never forget the horrors of the Holocaust
Telegraph
23-09-19 22:01
The BBC Two documentary series "Rise of the Nazis: Manhunt" examines the events surrounding the capture and trial of Nazi war criminals after the end of World War II. The series includes footage from the Nuremberg trials and reconstructs key moments such as the Mossad operation to capture Adolf Eichmann. It also highlights the moral ambiguities of the post-war era, including the recruitment of Klaus Barbie by US intelligence and the assistance of the Catholic clergy in helping war criminals escape. The series serves as a reminder of the importance of continuing to make programmes about the Holocaust.
Open House: Seized HK Mansion Listed for $112 Million Traces Fall of Evergrande Tycoon
Bloomberg
23-09-21 23:00
A mansion in Hong Kong that was seized from China Evergrande Group's chairman, Hui Ka Yan, is now up for sale. The 5,000-square-foot property, located in a wealthy Hong Kong neighborhood, was one of three houses that Hui bought in 2009 and formed his main residence when he was in Hong Kong. Hui's personal fortune swelled to $42 billion at its peak in 2017, but the collapse of Evergrande and President Xi Jinping's crackdown on excessive leverage in the real estate industry has caused his wealth to plummet. The house is on sale for HK$880 million ($112 million).
Zelensky makes passionate plea to US lawmakers in Washington
The Independent
23-09-22 06:40
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made an impassioned plea to American lawmakers for further aid in the face of the ongoing conflict with Russia. Zelensky warned that without aid, Ukraine would lose the war. He held private talks with both Republican and Democratic leaders and discussed Ukraine's war plan, stating that they believe they are making slow but steady progress. Zelensky's visit to Washington came to an end with the announcement of a $325m aid package from the Biden administration. The administration has also requested an additional $24bn for Ukraine's military and humanitarian needs, but resistance to the request could lead to delays or reductions.
Twelve music books out this fall, including new releases from Barbra Streisand and Britney Spears
The Globe and Mail
23-09-22 11:00
A number of music-related books are set to be released this fall, including memoirs from Britney Spears, Barbra Streisand, and Sly Stone, as well as biographies and works of scholarship on other musicians. Britney Spears's autobiography, titled "The Woman in Me," reportedly went through a bidding war among publishers and was sold for as much as $15 million. Barbra Streisand's memoir, "My Name Is Barbra," has already become a No. 1 bestseller based on pre-sales. Other books include "Elvis and the Colonel," which focuses on the strange show-business partnership between Elvis Presley and his manager Colonel Tom Parker, and "Living the Beatles Legend: The Untold Story of Mal Evans," which tells the story of the Beatles' road manager and confidant. The books cover a wide range of genres and themes, from pop music to classical compositions, and provide insights into the lives and careers of some of the world's most famous musicians.
Thomas Walkom: Grocery price controls are the next step in fighting inflation
The Toronto Star
23-09-22 10:00
The Canadian government is looking to tackle inflation by focusing on price controls rather than interest rates. The government has invited the country's largest food companies to discuss how to lower the growth in the price of groceries. Critics argue that price controls would be quickly overwhelmed by free market forces, but the government hopes the policy will set a precedent for future intervention in food prices.
Ben Stokes on how hair loss affects men’s lives: ‘I thought this is getting worse and worse’
Telegraph
23-09-22 13:03
England cricket captain Ben Stokes has revealed that he draws inspiration from Brad Pitt's character in the film "Fury" when it comes to leadership. Stokes sees himself as a ruthless but respected leader, just like Pitt's character in the war film. Stokes wants his players to respect him rather than fear him, and believes that respect comes from leading by example and demonstrating his commitment to the team.
Stokes has also opened up about his struggles with mental health and his decision to have a hair transplant. He admits that he used to put on a show and pretend to be someone he wasn’t, but now he is just happy being himself. Stokes believes that everyone needs something that takes them away from their troubles, and for him it is playing golf and video games.
Stokes has had a successful career so far, but he still feels like there is more to achieve. He hopes to continue as captain until the next home Ashes in 2027 and even after he retires, he can’t see himself not being involved in cricket in some way. Cricket is in his blood and he wants to be a part of it for as long as possible.
As autumn approaches and people spend more time indoors, The Telegraph has recommended 27 TV series to binge-watch during the season. The selection includes a mix of genres, from cozy mysteries to period dramas and workplace comedies. Some of the recommended shows include "Only Murders in the Building," a comedy about a group of neighbours investigating a suspicious death in their apartment building, and "Foyle's War," a period police drama set during World War II. Other notable recommendations include "Gilmore Girls," a heartwarming mother-and-daughter drama set in a small town, and "Pachinko," a multi-generational drama set in occupied Korea and Japan.
The article highlights the appeal of these shows for autumn viewing, describing them as “soothing” and “comforting.” The cozy and nostalgic atmosphere of many of the shows is well-suited to the season, offering viewers a chance to escape into fictional worlds and indulge in some feel-good entertainment. The selection covers a range of themes and settings, from murder mysteries and historical dramas to workplace comedies and family sagas, ensuring there is something for everyone’s taste.
With the ongoing pandemic and the return of colder weather, many people are likely to spend more time indoors in the coming months. Binge-watching TV shows has become a popular way to pass the time and find entertainment during lockdowns and periods of social distancing. The Telegraph’s recommendations provide viewers with a curated list of shows that are perfect for autumn viewing, offering a mix of escapism, entertainment, and emotional resonance.
How Roger Moore and Miss Moneypenny helped to ‘win the peace’ in Germany
Telegraph
23-09-22 18:00
A new book by historian Daniel Cowling, called Don’t Let’s Be Beastly to the Germans, explores the challenges, successes and failings of the British occupation of Germany after World War II. Cowling argues that the occupation was not Britain’s finest hour, with excessive alcohol consumption amongst the British occupiers resulting in assault, sexual harassment and vandalism. However, there were also successes, such as the rebuilding of the free press and the rebirth of the Volkswagen factory.
The political class has betrayed Brexit by turning Britain into a European country
Telegraph
23-09-22 17:24
Former Governor of the Bank of England, Mark Carney, has been criticised for claiming that the UK is becoming "Argentina on the Channel" due to its economic policies. Carney made the comments during a speech in Canada, criticising the UK government's approach to reducing taxes and government spending. However, the article argues that Carney's own tenure as Governor saw sluggish economic growth, and that the UK has actually become more aligned with European tax and spend policies. The article also criticises Labour leader Keir Starmer for suggesting that the UK should not diverge from EU rules, arguing that the country has not taken full advantage of its newfound freedoms outside the bloc. It also criticises the government's handling of public spending, arguing that debt has not constrained spending, but tax cuts are still considered difficult due to high debt interest payments. The article concludes that Carney, Starmer, and the current high-tax, high-spend government offer no ambition for the UK and that Brexiteers should not be blamed for wanting a different future.
Couple leaves property donation worth more than $200-million in B.C.
The Globe and Mail
23-09-22 22:05
Henry and Mary Rempel, who died in 2016 and 2014 respectively, have left a portfolio of properties in British Columbia worth $229.6m to the Mennonite Central Committee British Columbia. The couple, who didn't have children, began buying rental properties in the 1980s. They used savings to purchase two apartment buildings in Prince George, before using those properties as collateral to purchase others. They were supported by their lawyer and friend, Bill Battison, who says they "were truly self-made people". When Mary died in 2014, Henry kept the property businesses going. Their donation to the charity will be used to generate income, with MCC BC calling the portfolio an "endowment". The couple had always intended to give the properties to charity, as they had both fled persecution in Europe.
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