.The Invention of Money
The Invention of Money
By John Lanchester July 29, 2019
When the system buckles, how do we know what money is really worth?
In three centuries, the heresies of two bankers became the basis of our modern economy.
When the Venetian merchant Marco Polo got to China, in the latter part of the thirteenth century, he saw many wonders—gunpowder and coal and eyeglasses and porcelain.
One of the things that astonished him most, however, was a new invention, implemented by Kublai Khan, a grandson of the great conqueror Genghis. It was paper money, introduced by Kublai in 1260. Polo could hardly believe his eyes when he saw what the Khan was doing:
He makes his money after this fashion. He makes them take of the bark of a certain tree, in fact of the mulberry tree, the leaves of which are the food of the silkworms, these trees being so numerous that whole districts are full of them.
What they take is a certain fine white bast or skin which lies between the wood of the tree and the thick outer bark, and this they make into something resembling sheets of paper, but black. When these sheets have been prepared they are cut up into pieces of different sizes.
All these pieces of paper are issued with as much solemnity and authority as if they were of pure gold or silver; and on every piece a variety of officials, whose duty it is, have to write their names, and to put their seals.
And when all is prepared duly, the chief officer deputed by the Khan smears the seal entrusted to him with vermilion, and impresses it on the paper, so that the form of the seal remains imprinted upon it in red; the money is then authentic. Anyone forging it would be punished with death.
That last point was deeply relevant. The problem with many new forms of money is that people are reluctant to adopt them. Genghis Khan’s grandson didn’t have that difficulty.
He took measures to insure the authenticity of his currency, and if you didn’t use it—if you wouldn’t accept it in payment, or preferred to use gold or silver or copper or iron bars or pearls or salt or coins or any of the older forms of payment prevalent in China—he would have you killed. This solved the question of uptake.
Marco Polo was right to be amazed. The instruments of trade and finance are inventions, in the same way that creations of art and discoveries of science are inventions—products of the human imagination. Paper money, backed by the authority of the state, was an astonishing innovation, one that reshaped the world.
To continue reading, please go to the original article at
https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2019/08/05/the-invention-of-money
TNT:
Mot: Christmas 1881
Pa never had much compassion for the lazy or those who squandered their means and then never had enough for the necessities. But for those who were genuinely in need, his heart was as big as all outdoors.
It was from him that I learned the greatest joy in life comes from giving, not from receiving.
It was Christmas Eve, 1881. I was fifteen years old and feeling like the world had caved in on me because there just hadn't been enough money to buy me the rifle that I'd wanted for Christmas.
TNT:
Tishwash: The old man sat in his gas station on a cold Christmas Eve
A beautiful read during this magical season
The old man sat in his gas station on a cold Christmas Eve. He hadn't been anywhere in years since his wife had passed away. It was just another day to him. He didn't hate Christmas, just couldn't find a reason to celebrate.
He was sitting there looking at the snow that had been falling for the last hour and wondering what it was all about when the door opened and a homeless man stepped through.
TNT:
Mot: One of the most famous Christmas scenes in movie history was filmed in secret
One of the most famous Christmas scenes in movie history was filmed in secret, right in front of thousands of New Yorkers who didn’t know what was going on.
When you watch Miracle on 34th Street, you’re not looking at a Hollywood set or paid extras. You’re seeing a real moment from 1946, captured as it happened.
Director George Seaton decided not to use a studio and instead put his cast in the real Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
TNT:
Mot: Christmas 1881
Pa never had much compassion for the lazy or those who squandered their
means and then never had enough for the necessities. But for those who were
genuinely in need, his heart was as big as all outdoors. It was from him
that I learned the greatest joy in life comes from giving, not from receiving.
It was Christmas Eve, 1881. I was fifteen years old and feeling like the
world had caved in on me because there just hadn't been enough money to buy
me the rifle that I'd wanted for Christmas. We did the chores early that
night for some reason. I just figured Pa wanted a little extra time so we
could read in the Bible.
.When Massachusetts Banned Christmas
Christopher Klein
Ebenezer Scrooge and the Grinch had nothing on the 17th-century Puritans, who actually banned the public celebration of Christmas in the Massachusetts Bay Colony for an entire generation.
The pious Puritans who sailed from England in 1630 to found the Massachusetts Bay Colony brought with them something that might seem surprising for a group of devout Christians—contempt for Christmas.
In a reversal of modern practices, the Puritans kept their shops and schools open and churches closed on Christmas, a holiday that some disparaged as “Foolstide.”
15 Ways to Safe Guard Sudden Wealth
In this Alux.com video we will be answering the following questions:
What to do with money?
What to do if you suddenly get money?
What to do if you inherit a large sum of money?
DJ: DID YOU KNOW?
There is a difference between desire and desperation. Wanting and wishing for something to happen doesn’t make it come true or change reality.
I take issue with Intel providers feeding off the desperation of those who have been put into a mindset of hope they have created.
Twenty years ago most would have been happy enjoying a moment of solitude watching a good movie laying in bed. But now its become torture because we want so much more.
Excessive want is a form of desperation. It’s like our conscious state has been reduced to this toxic blend of hope and uncertainty.
![ZPMXORF7YZCTTGN2JVPJATYOSU[1].jpg](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5d5222a44813620001d89582/fc814dfb-1b96-48cb-a88b-11e0cfc7cbb3/ZPMXORF7YZCTTGN2JVPJATYOSU%5B1%5D.jpg)
How Popeye’s Obsession With Spinach Was Created From Glaring Misprint
Mistake from scientist led to signature feature of iconic cartoon
Popeye reaches for a can of spinach in a still from an unidenitified Popeye film, c. 1945. (Image by Paramount Pictures/Courtesy of Getty Images) (Paramount Pictures, Getty Images)
One of the most iconic cartoons of all time is “Popeye the Sailor,” and believe it or not, there is a day that has been created to honor the fictional character.
That day is today, but before any fans of the cartoon delve into celebrating Popeye The Sailor Man Day, they might not know how spinach consumption became the source of Popeye’s strength and a signature staple of the cartoon.
POPEYE® THE SAILOR MAN DAY | January 17
POPEYE® THE SAILOR MAN DAY
January 17 marks the 95th Birthday of the world’s most famous spinach loving, nautical hero — it's Popeye the Sailor Man! Today, we are taking epic strides to honor this legendary sailor who is tough and fit with tons of grit, as one of America’s most renown, pop-culture icons. After all, he yam what he yam!
#PopeyeTheSailorManDay
Popeye is the seeming underdog with bulging forearms, a mean uppercut, and a love of canned spinach. He is a defender of the weak and protector of those he loves. As the embodiment of strength and fitness, Popeye inspires us all to work hard, care for others, be persistent, and stay strong to the finish. Of course, all with the help of a hefty amount of spinach. In 2024, we are celebrating 95 years of this iconic figure, and the timeless inspiration Popeye has brought to billions of people.
Popeye was created by Elzie Crisler (E.C) Segar and made his first appearance in the comic strip "Thimble Theatre" on January 17, 1929. Originally created as a minor character, Popeye quickly became a super star. By 1938, the comic changed its name to “Popeye,” creating one of the most iconic cultural comic strips of all time.
.TNT:
Mot: THE LITTLE WHITE ENVELOPE:
"It's just a small, white envelope stuck among the branches of our Christmas tree. No name, no identification, no inscription. It has peeked through the branches of our tree for the past ten years.
It all began because my husband Mike hated Christmas. Oh, not the true meaning of Christmas, but the commercial aspects of it – overspending and the frantic running around at the last minute to get a tie for Uncle Harry and the dusting powder for Grandma – the gifts given in desperation because you couldn't think of anything else.
Knowing he felt this way, I decided one year to bypass the usual shirts, sweaters, ties and so forth. I reached for something special just for Mike. The inspiration came in an unusual way.
![nutcracker-2[1].jpg](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5d5222a44813620001d89582/1608922081926-CUVLU4VHII7C44Z2S8L0/nutcracker-2%5B1%5D.jpg)
A Brief History of How Nutcracker Dolls Became A Christmas Symbol for the Ages
Around the start of December, it’s not unusual to see decorative nutcrackers on store shelves, arranged on mantelpieces, hanging from Christmas trees, and even decorating holiday sweaters. For some, their colorful outfits, hand-painted faces, and tufts of white hair are the very definition of Christmas cheer. But have you ever wondered how these nutcrackers got to be so popular, and why people usually only bring them out at Christmastime? The answer involves German literature, a Russian ballet, and lots of generous American G.I.s.
From Basic to Beautiful
Humans have been using tools to crack nuts for thousands of years. The earliest designs were merely two pieces of wood joined by leather or a metal hinge, but as the centuries progressed, artisans started to create figurative designs for nutcrackers, such as brass crocodiles in India and cast-iron squirrels in England.
Santa Claus Images History
Lorraine Boissoneault December 19, 2018
A Civil War Cartoonist Created the Modern Image of Santa Claus as Union Propaganda
Thomas Nast is legendary for his political cartoons, but he’s also responsible for the jolly St. Nick we know today
You could call it the face that launched a thousand Christmas letters. Appearing on January 3, 1863, in the illustrated magazine Harper’s Weekly, two images cemented the nation’s obsession with a jolly old elf. The first drawing shows Santa distributing presents in a Union Army camp.
A NEW CHRISTMAS STORY . . .This story is better than any greeting card.
The old man sat in his gas station on a cold Christmas Eve. He hadn't been
anywhere in years since his wife had passed away. It was just another day to
him. He didn't hate Christmas, just couldn't find a reason to celebrate.
He was sitting there looking at the snow that had been falling for the last
hour and wondering what it was all about when the door opened and a homeless
man stepped through.
Instead of throwing the man out, Old George as he was known by his
customers, told the man to come and sit by the heater and warm up. "Thank
you, but I don't mean to intrude," said the stranger. "I see you're busy,
I'll just go."
"Not without something hot in your belly." George said.
VERIFY: 4 Common Thanksgiving Myths And The Real Facts Behind Them
Author: VERIFY, Terry Spry Jr.
The VERIFY team separated fact from fiction on 4 popular Thanksgiving myths including who started the turkey pardoning tradition and how Black Friday got its name.
Thanksgiving is almost here and with the annual festivities also comes years upon years of myths that have developed around one of the biggest holidays of the year for Americans. The myths, misconceptions and legends around Thanksgiving predate the internet, yet have persisted in the digital world all the same. Here are four common Thanksgiving myths, all of which are false, and the truth behind the holiday weekend’s various stories.
35 Thanksgiving Quotes That Capture the True Meaning of the Day
By Annie O’sullivan And Kelsey Hurwitz Nov 19, 2020
When it comes to Thanksgiving, a lot of emphasis gets put on the food; and, rightfully so. Between the juicy turkey, savory sides, and sweet desserts, there are a lot of edible elements to focus on come Thanksgiving Day. But as you make your way through the day, it’s important to practice gratitude and give thanks for the good that’s come your way. (Yes, even in a year filled with a lot of bad.) One way to do that is to read a Thanksgiving quote — aloud or to yourself — that captures the true meaning of the holiday.
Now, to be clear, the origins of the holiday have dark historical roots that have more to do with colonization than appreciation. But over the years, Thanksgiving has become synonymous with thanks (I mean, it’s right in the name.) So make sure to take a moment from your busy day to give thanks.
These Thanksgiving quotes emphasize the role gratitude can play in your life — and not just one day a year. Even in the darkest of times, there is so much to be thankful for, and in a year that has included global pandemic and continued racial injustices, Thanksgiving can be a day to remember all of the good things, big and small. And make sure those in your life are doing the same.
12 Unrecognizable Signs of Wealth
October 20, 2023 By Jordan Rosenfeld
You may think you can spot the signs of wealth at a glance — surely just look for the designer clothing and purses, yachts, fancy cars, gigantic mansions and diamonds dripping from fingers, right? Not necessarily.
In fact, there are many signs of wealth you wouldn’t notice or think to look for, and some that are actually quite hidden. Experts explain what some of these unrecognizable signs of wealth actually are.
Minimizing the Opinions of Others
Written by Cheryl Smith
One of the many things I have observed as a longtime online writer is the ebb and flow of the opinions of others. Putting yourself out there, being real and transparent, and sharing from your heart opens the door for others to react and respond, and their feedback can either distract and discourage or affirm and encourage you.
Here are 10 lessons I’ve learned over the past nearly 12 years that are not only for online authors but can be applied to anyone who deals with the opinions of others. Don’t we all?
The No. 1 Personality Trait Linked To A Long Life:
‘The effects of just being positive are overstated,’ psychology expert says
Published Sun, Sep 17 2023 Aditi Shrikant
The number of people who are living to at least 100 years old in the U.S. has doubled over the past decade. Many centenarians credit their longevity, at least in part, to their positive attitude.
Roslyn Menaker, 103, told The Guardian that “happiness, joy, appreciation … a positive outlook,” are why she has lived so long. Ruth Sweedler, 103, told CNBC Make It that she was always praised for her good attitude growing up. “When I walked into a classroom, my teacher would say, ‘Good morning, sunshine!’ Because I was so cheerful,” she said.
China’s Qing Dynasty Collapsed For Reasons That Feel Eerily Familiar
BRIEFING #195 whitehatauxiliaries September 13, 2023
Guest Feature Qing dynasty ruler Qing ruler Dorgon.
Salve Citizens,
As we close the 3rd quarter or 2023, most would agree that the general state of society is decaying and is in need of a serious change. Central to this for our purpose, is, of course, the natural curiosity about the Global Settlements. As much as we would love to have unrestricted news on the matter, such a thing is just not possible. What you see released here, to greater or lesser degree, is as good as it can be. And it’s far more accurate and reliable than what is claimed elsewhere.
Good morning Dinar Recaps,
Goldilocks posted comments and news links on the global financial system
SEBA Hong Kong has received the AIP for its licence application to operate regulated activities in Hong Kong to deal in securities, including virtual assets-related products, such as OTC derivatives and structured products; advise on securities and virtual assets; and conduct asset management for discretionary accounts in both traditional securities and virtual assets.
This license, when issued, will pave the way for SEBA Hong Kong to be part of the first group of licensed corporations in Hong Kong to conduct investment services with crypto capabilities in the market, making the Switzerland-headquartered bank a significant frontrunner in Hong Kong’s burgeoning crypto economy.
Note from Dinar Recaps: We are in no way affiliated with the website Dinar Alert We are only making this post as an information and courtesy to our readers - and the Dinar community - Thank You
Notice of DinarAlert Closing
DinarAlert is officially closing August 31, 2023. The reason is the host is going out of business and will not be supporting the website any further. That means, all information on the site will be lost at that time. A decision to not rebuild with a new host was decided since the information, contacts, research and URL would not be salvageable. Any such new site would be in essence 'brand new' and that is not what we want at DinarAlert. DinarAlert was about truth, facts.
Over the past 12+ years, we took the responsibility of providing accurate information seriously. We wanted our members to be informed with the most accurate information possible. Please download and save any information you wish to retain for reference.
DJ: DID YOU KNOW?
This never ending cascade of Intel concerning the GCR/RV, at times, can seem overwhelming. How does an individual digest this information? One has to ask “what is the motivation behind the person, or persons, delivering the information?
Do these gurus have good intentions behind their efforts? It is not always the motives behind the action that makes it noble. Sometimes it’s as simple as the action itself. But at the end of the day “well done” is always better than “well said”.
Results are really all that matters. 50% of results is better than 100% of effort. All the efforts and good intentions of these Info streams, in the end can have damaging effects. I know that all of my words, if not well put are not well taken, are well meant
What the $2.04 Billion Lottery Winner Did With Their Lump Sum Payout
Sean Fisher, AI Editor Mon, August 14, 2023
For most, winning the lottery is a distant dream. But for Edwin Castro, it became a reality when he struck gold with a $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot in November 2022, the largest in history.
Choosing a one-time lump-sum payment, Castro received an astonishing $997.6 million, just short of a billion. Here’s a look at how he has used his unexpected fortune.
Tesla Technology History and Future
Final Wake Up Call By B Meyer July 26 2023
‘Off – world’ Technology
The veil holding our souls captive on this planet, through the reincarnation process, will be lifted to free humanity, and evolve as the Creator intended for us. ‘Off-the-world’ technology will become available that will fix everything that is wrong on earth, and can keep us young and healthy.
Technologies, like healing machines that have been in extra terrestrially operation for a very long time. Called MedBeds; “keeps us young and healthy” for as long as we want, which could be about 1,000 years before a new race reaches the next level.
America's Story Told by 1,500 Drones 🇺🇸 | America 250 Drone Show
Open Sky drone Light Shows: 7-4-2026
To celebrate America's 250th Anniversary, Open Sky Productions created a breathtaking drone light show that transforms the night sky into a living story of our nation's history, values, and spirit.
Using 1,500 synchronized drones, this one-of-a-kind production brings iconic American imagery to life, from the American Flag and Founding Fathers to the Statue of Liberty, the bald eagle, and other powerful symbols that have shaped our country for 250 years.