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On The Bricks

March 27, 2020

          According to The Book of Bizarre Truth an error in arithmetic contributed to history’s perception of Napoleon as a small man. The only known measurement of Bonaparte came from his autopsy, which reported a height of 5’2”. But it was not taken into account that this measurement was calculated in French units. Translating to slightly more than 168 centimeters, his height was actually 5’6” by the English Imperial system. This was above average for a 19th century Frenchman.

          Another possible reason for this misconception is the fact that Napoleon kpt himself surrounded by a group of relatively tall guardsmen. Napoleon was never seen in public without his guard. These soldiers averaged six feet in height and would have towered over Napoleon.

          Napoleon wasn’t short, according to the Bizarre book, but his temper was. Over time, the notion that the general’s irascible, aggressive personality stemmed from his small size has been applied to any small – statured man who uses his temper to compensate for his height. This is referred to as a “Napoleon Complex,” and it also proves to be a myth. In 2007, researchers at the University of Central Lancashire studied the effect of height on aggression in men. Using heart monitors to gauge reactions, scientists found that taller men were more likely to respond to provocation with aggressive behavior.

          As Napoleon himself said, “History is the version of past events that people have decided to agree upon.” It turns out that history cut Napoleon about four inches short.

          That’s what the book said. But I was at one of Napoleon’s main palaces in 1977 and the bed, which was said to be his bed, was really short.

          Basically, I don’t think it really matters. But we can argue over it, if you want.

Famous Okie information: Oklahoma has produced more astronauts than any other state.

Keep Going on Your New Years Resolutions: Here’s one to try on a day you’re home from work. Spend time with your family or friends and go all day without checking your email.

Sage advice: The way to happiness: Keep your heart free from hate, your mind from worry. Live simply, expect little, give much. Scatter sunshine, forget self, think of others. Try this for a week and you will be surprised. ~Norman Vincent Peale

Made me laugh: Only in America do people leave cars worth thousands of dollars in the driveway and put our useless junk in the garage.

          See you on the bricks soon!