An area in south-eastern Africa which was proclaimed a British colony in 1843, after the British annexed the Boer Republic of Natalia. It is now the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa.
Colony of Natal
Fact of the Day
The earliest book of English table manners was written by Daniel of Beccles in the time of Henry II. It prohibited elbows on tables, talking with full mouths and scratching armpits. It also gave guidance on what to do if the wife of the host were to make a pass at a guest: he should feign illness.
Quote of the Day
"A man must needs close his eyes and clench his teeth, wry-mouthed and shuddering, and filtering the stuff rather than drinking.
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~ Peter of Blois, 12th century, on English wine
On This Day
1787 The 'First Fleet' of 11 ships carrying convicts to Australia left England.
1888 Slavery was abolished in Brazil.