19th century Quote by C.P. Snow
“Nine English traditions out of ten date from the latter half of the nineteenth century.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Two Cultures and the Scientific Revolution, C.P. Snow, 1959
Most English customs we think of as old actually originated in the late 1800s.
In simple terms: Many traditions are relatively recent.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the recent origins of “old” customs.
Themes
history
culture
tradition
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
historical
educational
When to use this quote
- museum tours
- heritage festivals
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
social evolution
modernity
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions do we make about the age of cultural practices?
- How does knowing a tradition’s true age change its value?
A Different Perspective
Some may argue earlier roots exist but are less documented.
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