I have recently devoted some time to delving into a bit of family history that I have not previously investigated. That has coincided with the 'Black Lives Matter' protests in the US, UK and elsewhere, and the subsequent calls for a reassessment of roles played by historical figures. As statues have been toppled or covered with graffiti, so we have been reminded that some key figures in history had elements in their careers that are little-known today or which were never perhaps fully examined in the past, but which are now viewed as reprehensible.
Thus Winston Churchill, rightly celebrated as Britain’s inspiring leader in the Second World War, had views on Empire that are deeply at variance with today’s political norms. One example was his support, in a War Office Minute of 12th May 1919 cited by historian Sir Martin Gilbert, for the use of poison gas in Mesopotamia (Iraq), when he wrote: “I do not understand this squeamishness about the use of gas… I am strongly in favour of using poisoned gas against uncivilised tribes.” In the event, it was never used.
George Washington, one of the highly-respected Founding Fathers of the US, was a slave-owner, as was his wife, although he gave orders that they should be freed upon his death.
In any modern-day assessment of the contributions both Churchill and Washington made to their countries, it is reasonable, I would suggest, to conclude that the positive outweighs the negative, although there is scope for a better understanding of the negative parts.
The reverse is most definitely true of King Leopold of Belgium who, literally, owned the Congo Free State between 1885 and 1908, presiding over an administration that was one of the greatest scandals of the colonial era. During that period, it is estimated, at least 5 million people, half of the population, died. Belgium’s King Philippe last week expressed his “deepest regrets” to the Democratic Republic of Congo for that stain upon Belgian, and Congolese, history.
In today's 'woke' environment, there would appear to be a belief that historical figures should be singled out for condemnation unless every aspect of their record is acceptable
In delving into my own family’s history, I have sought to look for both the positive and negative.
One of my ancestors, my mother’s grandfather, Daniel Bolt, was deeply engaged in the building of Britain’s overseas empire. For over 30 years, he captained sailing ships that travelled between England and Australia, carrying emigrants seeking to build new lives in the Antipodes.
These magnificent clipper ships carried hundreds of passengers. Not all, though, arrived safely. Conditions on the ships, particularly in steerage – below decks – could be horrendous and passengers often died en route.
One clipper under Captain Bolt’s command, the Earl Russell, left the English port of Plymouth in April 1864, arriving at Moreton Bay in Queensland in early August.
A medical inspection carried out after the ship’s arrival found that “a considerable amount of sickness prevailed among the passengers during the passage”. Four children and two others, probably crewmen, died on the voyage, which was a relatively low number. The death toll on many other ships plying the route was much higher, with disease running rampant through the crowded passenger quarters. On another vessel that arrived at Moreton Bay the next year, there were 32 deaths, four adults and 28 children.
Daniel Bolt appears to have been regarded as one of the better captains, both for his seamanship and for his care for his passengers. He was “well and favourably known in Queensland over a long course of years”, according to one document I have unearthed. Indeed, in around 1870, he was appointed by the Queensland Government office in London as Inspector of Immigrant Ships, charged with ensuring not only that conditions on the ships were satisfactory, but also that a qualified surgeon was on board for each voyage.
I have further research yet to undertake – on evidence presented by him to a Queensland Government committee in 1876 on conditions on emigrant ships, for example, as well as a journal he kept on two later voyages.
That further research might show, of course, he had a well-concealed reputation for onboard brutality. Should that emerge, it would allow me to make a more balanced assessment of his career, both its positive and negative aspects. In the event of such negative elements emerging, however, should I feel that I or my children should personally feel some sense of responsibility for such misdeeds?
That, in my view, would be neither appropriate nor necessary.
It is right that light should be shed on historical figures, whether within one’s own family, or at the level of countries and nations.
In today’s woke environment, there would appear to be a belief that historical figures should be singled out for condemnation unless every single aspect of their record is deemed to be acceptable, indeed praiseworthy, by modern-day standards. Certainly, some such figures have clearly been “whitewashed” and would benefit from more scrutiny. The reputations of some others may now be “blackened” because insufficient attention has been paid to generally positive aspects of their careers.
Perhaps the lesson to be drawn is that history is full of greys and is rarely simply a matter of black and white.
Peter Hellyer is a consultant specialising in the UAE's history and culture
The specs
Engine: 1.6-litre 4-cyl turbo
Power: 217hp at 5,750rpm
Torque: 300Nm at 1,900rpm
Transmission: eight-speed auto
Price: from Dh130,000
On sale: now
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Need to know
When: October 17 until November 10
Cost: Entry is free but some events require prior registration
Where: Various locations including National Theatre (Abu Dhabi), Abu Dhabi Cultural Center, Zayed University Promenade, Beach Rotana (Abu Dhabi), Vox Cinemas at Yas Mall, Sharjah Youth Center
What: The Korea Festival will feature art exhibitions, a B-boy dance show, a mini K-pop concert, traditional dance and music performances, food tastings, a beauty seminar, and more.
For more information: www.koreafestivaluae.com
Sheer grandeur
The Owo building is 14 storeys high, seven of which are below ground, with the 30,000 square feet of amenities located subterranean, including a 16-seat private cinema, seven lounges, a gym, games room, treatment suites and bicycle storage.
A clear distinction between the residences and the Raffles hotel with the amenities operated separately.
Vaccine Progress in the Middle East
Tailors and retailers miss out on back-to-school rush
Tailors and retailers across the city said it was an ominous start to what is usually a busy season for sales.
With many parents opting to continue home learning for their children, the usual rush to buy school uniforms was muted this year.
“So far we have taken about 70 to 80 orders for items like shirts and trousers,” said Vikram Attrai, manager at Stallion Bespoke Tailors in Dubai.
“Last year in the same period we had about 200 orders and lots of demand.
“We custom fit uniform pieces and use materials such as cotton, wool and cashmere.
“Depending on size, a white shirt with logo is priced at about Dh100 to Dh150 and shorts, trousers, skirts and dresses cost between Dh150 to Dh250 a piece.”
A spokesman for Threads, a uniform shop based in Times Square Centre Dubai, said customer footfall had slowed down dramatically over the past few months.
“Now parents have the option to keep children doing online learning they don’t need uniforms so it has quietened down.”
How to watch Ireland v Pakistan in UAE
When: The one-off Test starts on Friday, May 11
What time: Each day’s play is scheduled to start at 2pm UAE time.
TV: The match will be broadcast on OSN Sports Cricket HD. Subscribers to the channel can also stream the action live on OSN Play.
If you go
The flights
There are various ways of getting to the southern Serengeti in Tanzania from the UAE. The exact route and airstrip depends on your overall trip itinerary and which camp you’re staying at.
Flydubai flies direct from Dubai to Kilimanjaro International Airport from Dh1,350 return, including taxes; this can be followed by a short flight from Kilimanjaro to the Serengeti with Coastal Aviation from about US$700 (Dh2,500) return, including taxes. Kenya Airways, Emirates and Etihad offer flights via Nairobi or Dar es Salaam.
The specs
Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo
Power: 201hp at 5,200rpm
Torque: 320Nm at 1,750-4,000rpm
Transmission: 6-speed auto
Fuel consumption: 8.7L/100km
Price: Dh133,900
On sale: now
Fighter profiles
Gabrieli Pessanha (Brazil)
Reigning Abu Dhabi World Pro champion in the 95kg division, virtually unbeatable in her weight class. Known for her pressure game but also dangerous with her back on the mat.
Nathiely de Jesus, 23, (Brazil)
Two-time World Pro champion renowned for her aggressive game. She is tall and most feared by her opponents for both her triangles and arm-bar attacks.
Thamara Ferreira, 24, (Brazil)
Since her brown belt days, Ferreira has been dominating the 70kg, in both the World Pro and the Grand Slams. With a very aggressive game.
Samantha Cook, 32, (Britain)
One of the biggest talents coming out of Europe in recent times. She is known for a highly technical game and bringing her A game to the table as always.
Kendall Reusing, 22, (USA)
Another young gun ready to explode in the big leagues. The Californian resident is a powerhouse in the -95kg division. Her duels with Pessanha have been highlights in the Grand Slams.
Martina Gramenius, 32, (Sweden)
Already a two-time Grand Slam champion in the current season. Gramenius won golds in the 70kg, in both in Moscow and Tokyo, to earn a spot in the inaugural Queen of Mats.
How to apply for a drone permit
- Individuals must register on UAE Drone app or website using their UAE Pass
- Add all their personal details, including name, nationality, passport number, Emiratis ID, email and phone number
- Upload the training certificate from a centre accredited by the GCAA
- Submit their request
What are the regulations?
- Fly it within visual line of sight
- Never over populated areas
- Ensure maximum flying height of 400 feet (122 metres) above ground level is not crossed
- Users must avoid flying over restricted areas listed on the UAE Drone app
- Only fly the drone during the day, and never at night
- Should have a live feed of the drone flight
- Drones must weigh 5 kg or less
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Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club race card
5pm: Abu Dhabi Fillies Classic (PA) Prestige; Dh110,000; 1,400m
5.30pm: Abu Dhabi Colts Classic (PA) Prestige; Dh110,000; 1,400m
6pm: Maiden (PA); Dh80,000; 1,600m
6.30pm: Abu Dhabi Championship (PA) Listed; Dh180,000; 1,600m
7pm: Wathba Stallions Cup (PA) Handicap; Dh70,000; 2,200m
7.30pm: Handicap (PA); Dh100,000; 2,400m
RESULTS
1.30pm Handicap (PA) Dh 50,000 (Dirt) 1,400m
Winner AF Almomayaz, Hugo Lebouc (jockey), Ali Rashid Al Raihe (trainer)
2pm Handicap (TB) Dh 84,000 (D) 1,400m
Winner Karaginsky, Tadhg O’Shea, Satish Seemar.
2.30pm Maiden (TB) Dh 60,000 (D) 1,200m
Winner Sadeedd, Ryan Curatolo, Nicholas Bachalard.
3pm Conditions (TB) Dh 100,000 (D) 1,950m
Winner Blue Sovereign, Clement Lecoeuvre, Erwan Charpy.
3.30pm Handicap (TB) Dh 76,000 (D) 1,800m
Winner Tailor’s Row, Royston Ffrench, Salem bin Ghadayer.
4pm Maiden (TB) Dh 60,000 (D) 1,600m
Winner Bladesmith, Tadhg O’Shea, Satish Seemar.
4.30pm Handicap (TB) Dh 68,000 (D) 1,000m
Winner Shanaghai City, Fabrice Veron, Rashed Bouresly.
SERIE A FIXTURES
Friday Sassuolo v Benevento (Kick-off 11.45pm)
Saturday Crotone v Spezia (6pm), Torino v Udinese (9pm), Lazio v Verona (11.45pm)
Sunday Cagliari v Inter Milan (3.30pm), Atalanta v Fiorentina (6pm), Napoli v Sampdoria (6pm), Bologna v Roma (6pm), Genoa v Juventus (9pm), AC Milan v Parma (11.45pm)
