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Adrian C Grant

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You can read the synopsis of my new Book: "Fife Genesis of the Kingdom" here:
https://www.academia.edu/115228867/Fife_Genesis_of_the_Kingdom

It is available for purchase both in paperback and as an ebook here:
https://www.troubador.co.uk/bookshop/history-politics-society/fife-genesis-of-the-kingdom

Bio:
Retired High School teacher of social subjects {Geography, Economics, Modern Studies) and Computing;
Living in Fife, Scotland.
Author: "Scottish Clans: Legend, Logic & Evidence" (2012)
"Arthur: Legend, Logic & Evidence" (2017)
Further works in preparation

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Recent papers and revisons by Adrian C Grant

Notes on the Origins and Pedigree of the Clan Donnachaidh / Robertson Chiefs

This 2024 major update to the original paper takes account of recent DNA evidence that the Robert... more This 2024 major update to the original paper takes account of recent DNA evidence that the Robertson Chiefs do not descend in the male line from Crinan and Maelmuire but rather they are members of the Cenel Eoghain branch of the descendants of Niall of the Nine Hostages, The opportunity has been taken to include an examination of the heraldry and to consider sources outside the Robertsons' own..

Skene -understanding the people and the place

The Clan Skene Association and their relatively new chief are to be commended for having begun th... more The Clan Skene Association and their relatively new chief are to be commended for having begun the task of cleansing their lore of the romanticised nonsense which bedevils many clans. They havehas not been helped by the prolonged period (1827-1994) without a chief.

This cleansing process has left a void about their name and origins which this paper seeks to fill. It necessarily also bears on other aspects of the Scottish history of pre-Bruce times.

Fife: Genesis of the Kingdom

Introducing "Fife: Genesis of the Kingdom" - including a link to preorder it. This is the synops... more Introducing "Fife: Genesis of the Kingdom" - including a link to preorder it.

This is the synopsis of my forthcoming book (scheduled for publication in May 2024) ISBN: 9781805143840
c83 000 words of text
21 images on colour plates
40+ other illustrations 

The work traces the history of Fife from the retreat of the ice cap to the formation of the "Kingdom of Fife" in 1130 - with appendices including the explanation of how it all came to an end such a short time later.

There are many items included in this book which are entirely new to scholarship. And many "well known facts" are thoroughly refuted

Scottish and Pictish History by Adrian C Grant

Eclipse of Cymry in Scotland

Little consideration has been given to the considerable settlement of Scotland north of the Anton... more Little consideration has been given to the considerable settlement of Scotland north of the Antonine Wall by the Cymry. Likewise scant account has been taken of the incompatibility of the normally held view for the arrival of the Cymry in Britain (usually assumed to be 1000-800 BC) and the development of P-Celtic in the Austrian Alps (usually assumed to be c700BC). This paper seeks to show the widespread settlement of Cymry in Scotland as part of focussing on the problem mentioned. The discussion also serves as a basis for analysing the maximum range of the Kingdom of Manau in Central Scotland which appears to have reached its apogee just before the 1 st Roman invasion under Agricola.

For a sad variety of reasons the early history of Elie in Fife has been ignored and disdained. My... more For a sad variety of reasons the early history of Elie in Fife has been ignored and disdained. My new book "Fife: Genesis of the Kingdom" provides an ideal basis for putting this right. Such morsels as there are all fit perfectly into the scenario I have constructed and so act as further vindication.
4,200 words and some pretty pictures - an easy read!

Scottish Clans: Legend, Logic & Evidence

Scottish Clans: Legend, Logic & Evidence, 2012

This is a synopsis of my 2 volume work. It provides a new perspective on the origins of many Scot... more This is a synopsis of my 2 volume work. It provides a new perspective on the origins of many Scottish Clans - identifying many of the lies fabricated to suit the necessity of the times and since believed and consistent with a sensible chronology. Supporting this there is a wholly new understanding of Pictish place names and of the origins of Heraldry, a rechronologising of Norwegian history covering the period 800-1015 together with a narrative overview of the politics of the Scotland of the day. Many people, such as Crinan and Duncan I's wife are identified for the first time.

Manuscript 1467

Scottisn Clans: Legend, Logic & Evidence, 2012

This appendix to "Scottish Clans: Legend, Logic & Evidence" sets out to show that "Manuscript 146... more

The Legend of Cruithne and his Seven Sons

Very superficially the legend of Cruithne and his seven sons may seem fair enough; a little less ... more Very superficially the legend of Cruithne and his seven sons may seem fair enough; a little less superficially it is clear that it is complete nonsense. But if, as this paper attempts to do, we dig deeper into the names and keep sensible time scales in mind then the legend can indeed tell us a great deal about the development of Scotland. This paper has been written with the particular intention of putting Fife in context.

The Political Geography of North East Scotland in Roman Times v2

Resistance to an intelligent interpretation of Ptolemy's geography of Scotland has created a mili... more Resistance to an intelligent interpretation of Ptolemy's geography of Scotland has created a milieu in which an approach to the prehistory/development of Pictland is impossible. With this problem addressed, sense can be made of evidence on the ground; the dynamics of political power and the results of unrecorded wars which led to the boundaries the confederated Pictish kingdom can be seen-not perfectly, but with a different order of magnitude of resolution. The hypothesis offered here builds upon and provides a possible context for data recently released about the archaeological explorations at Tap O' Noth. This version 2 corrects misallocations in the table for map 1

The MacLaurin/Dreghorn Hoax 1781 v1

In 1781 John Maclaurin, the Edinburgh Advocate who would later become Lord Dreghorn, matriculated... more In 1781 John Maclaurin, the Edinburgh Advocate who would later become Lord Dreghorn, matriculated Arms and was recognised by the Lord Lyon of the day as the Chief of the MacLaurins of Tiree. In this paper I show that the whole exercise was an elaborate ruse, principally a satire on the pomposity rife in the society in which he mixed but serving also to exorcise much personal bitterness arising from aspects of his personal life. There were no 'consequences' at the time, but 200 years later sadly some amateur historians may still be taken in by it-with the sort of collateral damage which only this exposure can repair.

Why Fortriu Was Misplaced By Historians Of Old v2

This paper offers an explanation for the confusion regarding the location of Fortrenn/Fortiu amon... more This paper offers an explanation for the confusion regarding the location of Fortrenn/Fortiu amongst historians. This updated version 2 strengthens the argument, particularly drawing on (i) evidence evinced by Margaret MacLaren of MacLaren in "The Maclarens: a history of Clan Labran" (1960) and (ii) my analysis of the MacLaurin/Dreghorn Hoax (see paper on this site) and omits some material of marginal relevance.

The MacLaurin/Dreghorn Hoax 1781 v2

In 1781 John Maclaurin, the Edinburgh Advocate who would later become Lord Dreghorn, matriculated... more In 1781 John Maclaurin, the Edinburgh Advocate who would later become Lord Dreghorn, matriculated Arms and was recognised by the Lord Lyon of the day as the Chief of the MacLaurins of Tiree. In this paper I show that the whole exercise was an elaborate ruse, principally a satire on the pomposity rife in the society in which he mixed but serving also to exorcise much personal bitterness arising from aspects of his personal life. There were no 'consequences' at the time, but 200 years later sadly some amateur historians may still be taken in by it-with the sort of collateral damage which only this exposure can repair.

This version 2 completes the analysis by detailing Daniel MacLaurin's family background.

Who were the Picts? Who were the Scots? v1 -Time to cut the Gordian Knot

Even today there are those who try to claim "The Picts" never existed. There are others(?) who wo... more Even today there are those who try to claim "The Picts" never existed. There are others(?) who would say that they are merely the "Cruithin"-ancient Britons-as referenced by Irish Annalists. And so the list goes on. Disparate origin legends appear mutually exclusive. So too there is serious dispute about "The Scots". This paper proposes wholly new solutions to these conundrums which paradoxically justify most of the traditional claims which have been made and now so largely dismissed/derided! It has been hard to decide on the way to present this argument so readers are invited to tell the author at what point in the paper they spotted the solutions being proposed here. When I set out on this journey I did not have very particular expectations-but the result is far beyond my imagination. The propositions I offer here have mostly come as a great shock to me. Several times I actually said "Wow!" to myself. I hope you will too-in a good way!

Who were the Picts? Who were the Scots? Part 2 - A Dissection of the Mythology

In pre-Christian times the Irish and the proto-Scots worshipped King Darius the Great as a god! ... more In pre-Christian times the Irish and the proto-Scots worshipped King Darius the Great as a god!

This paper extrapolates the argument offered in version 1 at both ends. At the "front" end consideration is given to the detail of the legends showing what is possible and detailing time windows. It turns out not only that those writing the legends down were very well acquainted with the classics but also that writing off the legends is a parade of arrogance. At the "rear" end an attempt is made to give more detail of the settlement patterns of the various tribes identified and how these were overlaid by subsequent arrivals.

Whence Came the Campbells

In several of my papers I have made sometimes tangential reference to the many fabrications in th... more In several of my papers I have made sometimes tangential reference to the many fabrications in the Campbell origin legend. I did discuss them-almost in passing-in "Scottish Clans...." (Volume II pp 20-24) but the way in which several people have picked up my passing references and have sought to challenge what they have regarded as untested assumptions has triggered my filling in of some of the gaps I had left and so bring all the material together. The advantage of this is that if and when anyone tries to stand behind the old canards they can be referred to this short summary paper. In short the "original" Campbell arrived in Scotland in 1174/5 in the train of King William the Lyon following William's release from captivity in Falaise. He had probably been a (relatively) local resident.

Clan Campbell -Addendum

In my paper "Whence Came the Campbells" among the matters I left open were: Why there should be a... more In my paper "Whence Came the Campbells" among the matters I left open were:
Why there should be a particular affiliation for the Counts of Flanders for St Nicholas and
When the Counts of Flanders changed their coat of arms.
I am now in a position to offer answers to both these questions.
Discussion of the main paper is open until November 20th 2021. You can join it here.

The Legendary Kings of the Picts -a Reconsideration

Five of my papers available on this site provide a completely new context within which to conside... more Five of my papers available on this site provide a completely new context within which to consider the legendary kings of the Picts-by which I refer to those before Vipoig (r. 312-342 AD). This paper takes that fresh look at the matter, concluding that while not fully accurate, the king lists offer us a more or less complete line of the Cruithnian kings of North West Scotland (they only first arrived on Orkney after c219 BC) and another almost entire list of the Caledonian line from the time they were defeated by the coalition of what I am characterising as the Coalition of Animal Tribes (around 200 BC). The list of "Brudes" is probably also fairly complete for the period for which it applies. There is much of value to be abstracted from these lists-and much more sense can be made of them when placed in this proper context. The paper also points to where intelligent further research could now be directed.

Attacotti: The Case for Manau Gododdin

The Attacotti have presented a mystery to historians. An excellent attempt to identify them was m... more The Attacotti have presented a mystery to historians. An excellent attempt to identify them was made 20 years ago by Philip Rance whose approach was far more thorough and systematic than that of those who went before. He latched on to some important lines of thought. However the fresh perspectives I have developed regarding the Roman and immediately sub-Roman periods in lowland Scotland allow me to propose that Rance's focus was in the wrong place. There is a more elegant solution. In this paper I propose that the Attacotti were the residents of Manau Gododdin.

The Political Geography of North East Scotland in Roman Times v3

This paper, originally written two years ago, has been badly in need of updating in the light of ... more This paper, originally written two years ago, has been badly in need of updating in the light of the dramatically new understanding of early Pictish and Scottish history set out in papers I have written subsequently. What is new in this version of this paper is the identification of the Boresti as "The Dolphin Tribe" otherwise "The Moraymen".

The specific problem arose from a resistance to an intelligent interpretation of Ptolemy's geography of Scotland - creating a milieu in which an approach to the prehistory/development of Pictland is impossible. I addressed this problem in my book "Arthur: Legend, Logic & Evidence" - so now sense can be made of evidence on the ground; the dynamics of political power and the results of unrecorded wars which led to the boundaries the confederated Pictish kingdom can be seen - not perfectly, but with a different order of magnitude of resolution.

The Origins of The Picts and The Scots: A Comprehensive Outline Narrative

Particularly thanks to the helpful participation of academia.edu members in the discussions of pr... more Particularly thanks to the helpful participation of academia.edu members in the discussions of precursor papers and to enormous amounts of time so generously given to me in telephone and email discussions with key trusted colleagues I am now in a position to offer a comprehensive explanation of the identification and origins of the Picts and of the Scots. Areas of unknowing still exist, of course-and there may be specific errors-but I am confident that these will prove to be lacunas and as such they will not interfere with the general narrative. The update resolves the Cwcyn/Venicones paradox

Notes on the Origins and Pedigree of the Clan Donnachaidh / Robertson Chiefs

This 2024 major update to the original paper takes account of recent DNA evidence that the Robert... more This 2024 major update to the original paper takes account of recent DNA evidence that the Robertson Chiefs do not descend in the male line from Crinan and Maelmuire but rather they are members of the Cenel Eoghain branch of the descendants of Niall of the Nine Hostages, The opportunity has been taken to include an examination of the heraldry and to consider sources outside the Robertsons' own..

Skene -understanding the people and the place

The Clan Skene Association and their relatively new chief are to be commended for having begun th... more The Clan Skene Association and their relatively new chief are to be commended for having begun the task of cleansing their lore of the romanticised nonsense which bedevils many clans. They havehas not been helped by the prolonged period (1827-1994) without a chief.

This cleansing process has left a void about their name and origins which this paper seeks to fill. It necessarily also bears on other aspects of the Scottish history of pre-Bruce times.

Fife: Genesis of the Kingdom

Introducing "Fife: Genesis of the Kingdom" - including a link to preorder it. This is the synops... more Introducing "Fife: Genesis of the Kingdom" - including a link to preorder it.

This is the synopsis of my forthcoming book (scheduled for publication in May 2024) ISBN: 9781805143840
c83 000 words of text
21 images on colour plates
40+ other illustrations 

The work traces the history of Fife from the retreat of the ice cap to the formation of the "Kingdom of Fife" in 1130 - with appendices including the explanation of how it all came to an end such a short time later.

There are many items included in this book which are entirely new to scholarship. And many "well known facts" are thoroughly refuted

Eclipse of Cymry in Scotland

Little consideration has been given to the considerable settlement of Scotland north of the Anton... more Little consideration has been given to the considerable settlement of Scotland north of the Antonine Wall by the Cymry. Likewise scant account has been taken of the incompatibility of the normally held view for the arrival of the Cymry in Britain (usually assumed to be 1000-800 BC) and the development of P-Celtic in the Austrian Alps (usually assumed to be c700BC). This paper seeks to show the widespread settlement of Cymry in Scotland as part of focussing on the problem mentioned. The discussion also serves as a basis for analysing the maximum range of the Kingdom of Manau in Central Scotland which appears to have reached its apogee just before the 1 st Roman invasion under Agricola.

For a sad variety of reasons the early history of Elie in Fife has been ignored and disdained. My... more For a sad variety of reasons the early history of Elie in Fife has been ignored and disdained. My new book "Fife: Genesis of the Kingdom" provides an ideal basis for putting this right. Such morsels as there are all fit perfectly into the scenario I have constructed and so act as further vindication.
4,200 words and some pretty pictures - an easy read!

Scottish Clans: Legend, Logic & Evidence

Scottish Clans: Legend, Logic & Evidence, 2012

This is a synopsis of my 2 volume work. It provides a new perspective on the origins of many Scot... more This is a synopsis of my 2 volume work. It provides a new perspective on the origins of many Scottish Clans - identifying many of the lies fabricated to suit the necessity of the times and since believed and consistent with a sensible chronology. Supporting this there is a wholly new understanding of Pictish place names and of the origins of Heraldry, a rechronologising of Norwegian history covering the period 800-1015 together with a narrative overview of the politics of the Scotland of the day. Many people, such as Crinan and Duncan I's wife are identified for the first time.

Manuscript 1467

Scottisn Clans: Legend, Logic & Evidence, 2012

This appendix to "Scottish Clans: Legend, Logic & Evidence" sets out to show that "Manuscript 146... more

The Legend of Cruithne and his Seven Sons

Very superficially the legend of Cruithne and his seven sons may seem fair enough; a little less ... more Very superficially the legend of Cruithne and his seven sons may seem fair enough; a little less superficially it is clear that it is complete nonsense. But if, as this paper attempts to do, we dig deeper into the names and keep sensible time scales in mind then the legend can indeed tell us a great deal about the development of Scotland. This paper has been written with the particular intention of putting Fife in context.

The Political Geography of North East Scotland in Roman Times v2

Resistance to an intelligent interpretation of Ptolemy's geography of Scotland has created a mili... more Resistance to an intelligent interpretation of Ptolemy's geography of Scotland has created a milieu in which an approach to the prehistory/development of Pictland is impossible. With this problem addressed, sense can be made of evidence on the ground; the dynamics of political power and the results of unrecorded wars which led to the boundaries the confederated Pictish kingdom can be seen-not perfectly, but with a different order of magnitude of resolution. The hypothesis offered here builds upon and provides a possible context for data recently released about the archaeological explorations at Tap O' Noth. This version 2 corrects misallocations in the table for map 1

The MacLaurin/Dreghorn Hoax 1781 v1

In 1781 John Maclaurin, the Edinburgh Advocate who would later become Lord Dreghorn, matriculated... more In 1781 John Maclaurin, the Edinburgh Advocate who would later become Lord Dreghorn, matriculated Arms and was recognised by the Lord Lyon of the day as the Chief of the MacLaurins of Tiree. In this paper I show that the whole exercise was an elaborate ruse, principally a satire on the pomposity rife in the society in which he mixed but serving also to exorcise much personal bitterness arising from aspects of his personal life. There were no 'consequences' at the time, but 200 years later sadly some amateur historians may still be taken in by it-with the sort of collateral damage which only this exposure can repair.

Why Fortriu Was Misplaced By Historians Of Old v2

This paper offers an explanation for the confusion regarding the location of Fortrenn/Fortiu amon... more This paper offers an explanation for the confusion regarding the location of Fortrenn/Fortiu amongst historians. This updated version 2 strengthens the argument, particularly drawing on (i) evidence evinced by Margaret MacLaren of MacLaren in "The Maclarens: a history of Clan Labran" (1960) and (ii) my analysis of the MacLaurin/Dreghorn Hoax (see paper on this site) and omits some material of marginal relevance.

The MacLaurin/Dreghorn Hoax 1781 v2

In 1781 John Maclaurin, the Edinburgh Advocate who would later become Lord Dreghorn, matriculated... more In 1781 John Maclaurin, the Edinburgh Advocate who would later become Lord Dreghorn, matriculated Arms and was recognised by the Lord Lyon of the day as the Chief of the MacLaurins of Tiree. In this paper I show that the whole exercise was an elaborate ruse, principally a satire on the pomposity rife in the society in which he mixed but serving also to exorcise much personal bitterness arising from aspects of his personal life. There were no 'consequences' at the time, but 200 years later sadly some amateur historians may still be taken in by it-with the sort of collateral damage which only this exposure can repair.

This version 2 completes the analysis by detailing Daniel MacLaurin's family background.

Who were the Picts? Who were the Scots? v1 -Time to cut the Gordian Knot

Even today there are those who try to claim "The Picts" never existed. There are others(?) who wo... more Even today there are those who try to claim "The Picts" never existed. There are others(?) who would say that they are merely the "Cruithin"-ancient Britons-as referenced by Irish Annalists. And so the list goes on. Disparate origin legends appear mutually exclusive. So too there is serious dispute about "The Scots". This paper proposes wholly new solutions to these conundrums which paradoxically justify most of the traditional claims which have been made and now so largely dismissed/derided! It has been hard to decide on the way to present this argument so readers are invited to tell the author at what point in the paper they spotted the solutions being proposed here. When I set out on this journey I did not have very particular expectations-but the result is far beyond my imagination. The propositions I offer here have mostly come as a great shock to me. Several times I actually said "Wow!" to myself. I hope you will too-in a good way!

Who were the Picts? Who were the Scots? Part 2 - A Dissection of the Mythology

In pre-Christian times the Irish and the proto-Scots worshipped King Darius the Great as a god! ... more In pre-Christian times the Irish and the proto-Scots worshipped King Darius the Great as a god!

This paper extrapolates the argument offered in version 1 at both ends. At the "front" end consideration is given to the detail of the legends showing what is possible and detailing time windows. It turns out not only that those writing the legends down were very well acquainted with the classics but also that writing off the legends is a parade of arrogance. At the "rear" end an attempt is made to give more detail of the settlement patterns of the various tribes identified and how these were overlaid by subsequent arrivals.

Whence Came the Campbells

In several of my papers I have made sometimes tangential reference to the many fabrications in th... more In several of my papers I have made sometimes tangential reference to the many fabrications in the Campbell origin legend. I did discuss them-almost in passing-in "Scottish Clans...." (Volume II pp 20-24) but the way in which several people have picked up my passing references and have sought to challenge what they have regarded as untested assumptions has triggered my filling in of some of the gaps I had left and so bring all the material together. The advantage of this is that if and when anyone tries to stand behind the old canards they can be referred to this short summary paper. In short the "original" Campbell arrived in Scotland in 1174/5 in the train of King William the Lyon following William's release from captivity in Falaise. He had probably been a (relatively) local resident.

Clan Campbell -Addendum

In my paper "Whence Came the Campbells" among the matters I left open were: Why there should be a... more In my paper "Whence Came the Campbells" among the matters I left open were:
Why there should be a particular affiliation for the Counts of Flanders for St Nicholas and
When the Counts of Flanders changed their coat of arms.
I am now in a position to offer answers to both these questions.
Discussion of the main paper is open until November 20th 2021. You can join it here.

The Legendary Kings of the Picts -a Reconsideration

Five of my papers available on this site provide a completely new context within which to conside... more Five of my papers available on this site provide a completely new context within which to consider the legendary kings of the Picts-by which I refer to those before Vipoig (r. 312-342 AD). This paper takes that fresh look at the matter, concluding that while not fully accurate, the king lists offer us a more or less complete line of the Cruithnian kings of North West Scotland (they only first arrived on Orkney after c219 BC) and another almost entire list of the Caledonian line from the time they were defeated by the coalition of what I am characterising as the Coalition of Animal Tribes (around 200 BC). The list of "Brudes" is probably also fairly complete for the period for which it applies. There is much of value to be abstracted from these lists-and much more sense can be made of them when placed in this proper context. The paper also points to where intelligent further research could now be directed.

Attacotti: The Case for Manau Gododdin

The Attacotti have presented a mystery to historians. An excellent attempt to identify them was m... more The Attacotti have presented a mystery to historians. An excellent attempt to identify them was made 20 years ago by Philip Rance whose approach was far more thorough and systematic than that of those who went before. He latched on to some important lines of thought. However the fresh perspectives I have developed regarding the Roman and immediately sub-Roman periods in lowland Scotland allow me to propose that Rance's focus was in the wrong place. There is a more elegant solution. In this paper I propose that the Attacotti were the residents of Manau Gododdin.

The Political Geography of North East Scotland in Roman Times v3

This paper, originally written two years ago, has been badly in need of updating in the light of ... more This paper, originally written two years ago, has been badly in need of updating in the light of the dramatically new understanding of early Pictish and Scottish history set out in papers I have written subsequently. What is new in this version of this paper is the identification of the Boresti as "The Dolphin Tribe" otherwise "The Moraymen".

The specific problem arose from a resistance to an intelligent interpretation of Ptolemy's geography of Scotland - creating a milieu in which an approach to the prehistory/development of Pictland is impossible. I addressed this problem in my book "Arthur: Legend, Logic & Evidence" - so now sense can be made of evidence on the ground; the dynamics of political power and the results of unrecorded wars which led to the boundaries the confederated Pictish kingdom can be seen - not perfectly, but with a different order of magnitude of resolution.

The Origins of The Picts and The Scots: A Comprehensive Outline Narrative

Particularly thanks to the helpful participation of academia.edu members in the discussions of pr... more Particularly thanks to the helpful participation of academia.edu members in the discussions of precursor papers and to enormous amounts of time so generously given to me in telephone and email discussions with key trusted colleagues I am now in a position to offer a comprehensive explanation of the identification and origins of the Picts and of the Scots. Areas of unknowing still exist, of course-and there may be specific errors-but I am confident that these will prove to be lacunas and as such they will not interfere with the general narrative. The update resolves the Cwcyn/Venicones paradox

The Smertae and the need for the Brochs of Scotland

The Highland Scottish Tribe recorded by Ptolemy as the Smertae (variously Smaertae) have remained... more The Highland Scottish Tribe recorded by Ptolemy as the Smertae (variously Smaertae) have remained a mystery. Even heavyweight "authorities" have clutched at straws-and because of their backgrounds (largely in history and linguistics, and missing geography and any firm connection with the real world) they have come to no useful conclusions. While this paper does aim to provide one or two answers, mainly the intention is to frame and direct future research, offering others with expertise they may not even have realised they had an opportunity to slot their knowledge into a pattern which makes sense.

Delving into Placenames: An examination of Workington and other Anglo-Saxon Placenames with the element "Work-", "Wark-", "Wirk-" etc

A slavish and unthinking adherence by followers to the insight of Professor Eckwall (including a ... more A slavish and unthinking adherence by followers to the insight of Professor Eckwall (including a failure to pay attention to his later nuancing of his position) together with a lurid and non-academic approach to the invention ("hypothesisation") of Anglo-Saxon personal names has led to much nonsense being accepted by the English Place Names community. This paper deconstructs several of these, particularly those with an element "work", "wark" etc. and provides alternative explanations. This new underlying perspective has huge implications for many other place names.

Argyll -What's in a name

Contrary to received wisdom, while the phrase airer Goídel did have a geographical application, t... more Contrary to received wisdom, while the phrase airer Goídel did have a geographical application, the name of the County of Argyll in Scotland has an entirely unrelated etymology, being a name transferred from Airgialla/Oriel in Ireland. This paper examines and distinguishes the two, explaining the difference and how the conflation occurred.

Towards an Understanding of the Place Name 'Atholl'

Far from referring to "New Ireland", the place name Atholl refers to the ford replaced by the 'ne... more Far from referring to "New Ireland", the place name Atholl refers to the ford replaced by the 'new' Bridge of Tilt in the early 1800s. Various possibilities regarding the exact meaning of the whole name are discussed but, while I may have my own views, I have to concede that there is not yet one specific interpretation which can be advanced over at least some of the others. This paper invites academics and others with specific relevant expertise to review the evidence in the light of this paper in the hope that the options may be whittled down further and/or that any evolution of the name may be specified more precisely.

Atholl Addendum

In "Highland Highways" (John Donald 1991) page 7, John Kerr, writing of the Priest's Ford describ... more In "Highland Highways" (John Donald 1991) page 7, John Kerr, writing of the Priest's Ford describes it as "near the croy which is the start of the lade for the Mill of Blair." This is about 150 yards upstream from the new Bridge of Tilt (making this correction necessary). I am grateful to Ron Greer for scoping out the area for me. He confirms that a track easy enough to take a car is still to be found on the Kilmaveonaig side, but, crucially, just below the croy. So if John Kerr is correct (and there is a degree of caution in how he couches his words) then it would appear that the sequence of events will have been like this: 1. The Priest's Ford is the main access across the Tilt, capable of taking carts. 2. The Old Bridge of Tilt is built rendering the ford obsolete for heavy traffic. 3. The Mill Lade is constructed rendering the ford impassable, in practice, for heavy traffic 4. The new Bridge is built (with a secondary one over the mill lade) 5. The Priest's ford falls into complete disuse.

Schiehallion -NOT a "fairy hill" at all

Until the promulgation of this paper it has been the universal understanding that "Schiehallion" ... more Until the promulgation of this paper it has been the universal understanding that "Schiehallion" means "the fairy hill of the Caledonians". Here I refute this suggestion entirely, explaining how the misunderstanding came to be. An extension of this new analysis allows us also an understanding of the development - probably over some hundreds of years BC-of the Caledonian tribe from minor mountain dwellers to pre-eminent enemy of the Romans in the time of Agricola.

Britain, Albion, Alba, Lloegr -a comprehensive solution

Confusion and bewilderment have bedevilled the names Britain, Albion, Alba and Lloegr-whence they... more Confusion and bewilderment have bedevilled the names Britain, Albion, Alba and Lloegr-whence they are often classified as "obscure" and some seekers perform extreme linguistic gymnastics in search of meaning and etymology. Bizarrely almost all the correct answers have been referred to before, but too many of these explanations have been passed over unrecognised because of the unacknowledged assumptions clouding the minds of those who had so eruditely-if unwittingly-located the answers!

Salutary Place Name Lessons from Scotland: A response to Anthony Durham's "Duro-in early place names"

The 'discussion' space associated with Anthony Durham's "Duro-in early place names" (an Academia ... more

Bringing Home Kathleen

As has happened to too many too often, I allowed myself the laziness of accepting the received wi... more As has happened to too many too often, I allowed myself the laziness of accepting the received wisdom: the "well known fact" universally rehearsed in books of personal names in this case that the name Kathleen is an Irish variant of Catherine. But the moment I began to look into it properly I realised that this was impossible-and so the search for the true origin and meaning of the name began. I look forward to any alternatives to the at least tentative conclusion I have reached.

Bringing Home Kathleen

As has happened to too many too often, I allowed myself the laziness of accepting the received wi... more As has happened to too many too often, I allowed myself the laziness of accepting the received wisdom: the "well known fact" universally rehearsed in books of personal names in this case that the name Kathleen is an Irish variant of Catherine. But the moment I began to look into it properly I realised that this was impossible-and so the search for the true origin and meaning of the name began. I look forward to any alternatives to the at least tentative conclusion I have reached.

See You, Jimmy! How the name James came to Britain

How and why the name James came to Scotland (and even to England) has been a mystery. So far as I... more How and why the name James came to Scotland (and even to England) has been a mystery. So far as I understand it, every relevant academic regards the matter as on the one hand interesting but on the other hand unaddressed. In this paper I propose that it arrived c1159 for specific reasons and due to a misunderstanding/conflation which was already well established on both sides of the Pyrenees.

Locating Urbs Iudeu / Giudi and Winwaedfeld Disposing of false conflation and false dichotomy

In the drawn out wars between Penda king of Mercia and various kings of Northumbria in the genera... more In the drawn out wars between Penda king of Mercia and various kings of Northumbria in the general period 625-650 CE, poor quality chronicling has allowed historians to lapse into confusion and hence leap to false conclusions whether by false conflation or false dichotomy. In this paper I show that "Urbs Iudeu" is to be found at Blackness Castle. As a bonus a new proposal for the site of the battle of Winwaedfeld is also offered. It is about 5 400 words, but signposting may allow the reader to consume it in parts! The intending reader is encouraged to find an opportunity to settle down as the argument is necessarily convoluted-even though I have done my best to separate out the various strands.

Egremont, Ennerdale and the River Ehen

The utter failure of southern academics-their unwillingness-to get a handle on the placenames in ... more The utter failure of southern academics-their unwillingness-to get a handle on the placenames in the title of this paper and others, choosing instead to make something up based on their prejudice and so limited world view, has left Cumbrians bereft of our own past. The moment we remove the blinkers which they have imposed, we can see that these names can tell us a lot about what was going on a very long time ago…. about our history. All the names in the title of this paper-and more-are explained correctly for the first time and pointers are given to resolving more.

A Romano-British tribe called the Corieltauvi? Let's get real

In this paper I will consider all the ways in which the name of the people who lived in Lincolnsh... more In this paper I will consider all the ways in which the name of the people who lived in Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and Rutland throughout Roman Imperial times, for a long time before and for a fair time afterwards has been (mis)-represented. I will then rationalise the spelling supporting this by proposing a wholly new etymology (by which I mean reinstating the true original!). It is with some trepidation (others may say temerity) that I take on such heavyweights in the field as Roger S O Tomlin and Keith Fitzpatrick-Matthews in rejecting their views, but needs must.

The Pre-Roman Tribes of South East England: a major reappraisal

So-called historians have been trapped in an unintelligent group-think for far too long. Another ... more So-called historians have been trapped in an unintelligent group-think for far too long. Another of their problems is a disconnection with real life-meaning that they are seemingly unable to take eg geography or military logistics into account, thereby making their conclusions even more a matter of fantasy. This paper seeks to broaden the horizons of any of these who can cope with being evicted from their comfort zone, using SE England as a case study. It is not the last word on the matter as that will take constructive discussion involving several able people.

Lincoln and (logically but loosely) associated placenames

In this paper I will consider these names: Three Roman Forts: Lincoln, Ilchester and Drumquhassle... more In this paper I will consider these names: Three Roman Forts: Lincoln, Ilchester and Drumquhassle Two Rivers: Ivel (one in Somerset, one in Bedfordshire) Two settlements: Langford (Beds) and Langport (Somerset) Two "tribes": The Gifla (Beds) and The Hicca (Herts) The Farne Islands (Northumbrian Coast) and Mersea Island (Essex, in the Blackwater Estuary). The utter incompetence of self-appointed place name experts and the way local people have felt that they can do no more than acquiesce is laid bare. It is time for the truth to out.

The Cymry, The Tudors and the Welsh Dragon

This paper argues that the name Tudor is an aboriginal P-Celtic name and that the Welsh dragon wa... more

Egil's Saga: Why the Battle of Vin-Heath was NOT the Battle of Brunanburh

There is a substantial tranche of opinion which has leapt upon references to the Battle of Vin-He... more

Dating the Siege of Lindisfarne v1

Contradictory evidence in the oldest sources has led to the assumption that the siege of Lindisfa... more Contradictory evidence in the oldest sources has led to the assumption that the siege of Lindisfarne, during which Urien, King of Rheged, was murdered, took place in the late 590s. So too the Battle of Alt Clud Ford is normally assigned a date from 574 to c590. This paper reassesses the sources and proposes a date in the late 540s for both events, resolving, inter alia, problems regarding the time frame for the life of " king " Arthur. A. Problems with the Sources First let us notice that the Welsh Annals make no note of the siege or of the death of Urien. Bede too is silent on these matters. Second we should note that the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle records that Ida seized the throne of what became Bernicia in 547 and reigned 12 years, taking us to 559. There is no account of an untimely death for him. Thus historians have had little option but to rely heavily on Nennius who says (Chapter 63, Giles' translation) 63. Adda, son of Ida, reigned eight years; Ethelric, son of Adda, reigned four years. Theodoric, son of Ida, reigned seven years. Freothwulf reigned six years. In whose time the kingdom of Kent, by the mission of Gregory, received baptism. Hussa reigned seven years. Against him fought four kings, Urien, and Ryderthen, and Guallauc, and Morcant. Theodoric fought bravely, together with his sons, against that Urien. But at that time sometimes the enemy and sometimes our countrymen were defeated, and he shut them up three days and three nights in the island of Metcaut; and whilst he was on an expedition he was murdered, at the instance of Morcant, out of envy, because he possessed so much superiority over all the kings in military science. Eadfered Flesaurs reigned twelve years in Bernicia, and twelve others in Deira, and gave to his wife Bebba, the town of Dynguaroy, which from her is called Bebbanburg. If we were to assume that this was intended as a sequence to be taken literally we should have:

Brunanburgh at Brough.pdf v1

Locating the Site of the Battle of Brunanburgh, 2019

It is proposed that the Battle of Brunanburgh (937) took place in or close to the village of Brou... more

In search of the battlefield of Degsastan (603 AD)

So far those seeking to discover the location of the Battle of Daegsastan (603) have adopted the ... more So far those seeking to discover the location of the Battle of Daegsastan (603) have adopted the wrong approach and so have come to the wrong answer(s). By giving due weight to military, geographical and political constraints a hitherto very surprising conclusion is reached - not only about its location (in Yorkshire) but also as to the identity of "Daegsa".

Caer Greu and the loss of the kingdom of Ebrauc/York

A fresh and rigorous look at chronological incompatibility etc. leads to startling new conclusion... more

Dating the Siege of Lindisfarne v2

This revised version mostly expands and corrects the discussion of the succession and family rela... more This revised version mostly expands and corrects the discussion of the succession and family relationships of the early Anglian kings of Bernicia; the emendations have a marginal bearing only on the general proposition regarding the dating of the siege. Contradictory evidence in the oldest sources has led to the assumption that the siege of Lindisfarne, during which Urien, King of Rheged, was murdered, took place in the late 590s. So too the Battle of Alt Clud Ford is normally assigned a date from 574 to c590. This paper reassesses the sources and proposes a date in the late 540s for both events, resolving, inter alia, problems regarding the time frame for the lives of "king" Arthur and his contemporaries.

Dating the Siege of Lindisfarne v3

This second revision expands further the discussion of the succession and family relationships of... more This second revision expands further the discussion of the succession and family relationships of the early Anglian kings of Bernicia explaining the origin of the name "Bernicia"; the emendations have a marginal bearing only on the general proposition regarding the dating of the siege. Contradictory evidence in the oldest sources has led to the assumption that the siege of Lindisfarne, during which Urien, King of Rheged, was murdered, took place in the late 590s. So too the Battle of Alt Clud Ford is normally assigned a date from 574 to c590. This paper reassesses the sources and proposes a date in the late 540s for both events, resolving, inter alia, problems regarding the time frame for the lives of "king" Arthur and his contemporaries.

Locating the site of the Battle of Brunanburgh (937) v2

In this revision of the original paper, the proposition placing the site of the Battle of Brunanb... more

Locating the site of the Battle of Brunanburh (937) v3

The location of the Battle of Brunanburh (937) is identified to be on the old Roman Road between ... more The location of the Battle of Brunanburh (937) is identified to be on the old Roman Road between Brough-on-Humber and South Cave in the East Riding of Yorkshire. This conclusion is drawn from an understanding of the military considerations based on the evidence in the Annals. The role of Beverley Minster is considered. It is demonstrated that the place-name evidence is fully consistent with this site - offering a more comprehensive analysis than anything hitherto. Finally church dedications in the area are shown to offer possible reinforcing evidence. In short this is a far more comprehensive treatment of the matter than has been made available before.

Locating the site of the Battle of Brunanburh (937) v4

In this paper I argue that the Battle of Brunanburh (937) took place on the old Roman Road betwee... more In this paper I argue that the Battle of Brunanburh (937) took place on the old Roman Road between Brough-on-Humber (Petuaria/Civitas Parisiorum) and South Cave in the East Riding of Yorkshire. This updated version has been triggered both by comments gratefully received from readers of previous drafts and because two alternative candidate sites not wholly inconsistent with my original proposal have come to my attention since version 3 was uploaded. So, whereas the original paper dismissed other proposals mainly by disregarding them, this revision now extends the argument to examine the claims of as many rival sites as I can identify, showing why they are to be discounted.

The Battle of White Hill ('Vin Heath'), 926 -the first Battle of Britain

This paper announces the Battle of White Hill. It took place in 926 and was a crushing victory fo... more This paper announces the Battle of White Hill. It took place in 926 and was a crushing victory for King Athelstan of Wessex. As the immediate result of the battle, Athelstan reasserted control over Northumbria which he had annexed by fiat and then lost over the course of the previous twelve months. In the treaty of Eamont Bridge, which followed hard upon this victory, the kings of Scotland and Strathclyde formally recognised Athelstan as king of all England and overlord of all Britain. As such I propose that this was the "First Battle of Britain". Without victory for Athelstan at this battle, there would have been no Battle of Brunanburh (937), so vaunted by the annalists. This paper sets this battle in its context, identifying the battlefield. The author hopes that the local authority will now take steps to preserve and memorialise such of the battlefield as remains otherwise undisturbed and takes appropriate steps to recognise the forthcoming 1100th anniversary.

Locating the site of the Battle of Brunanburh (937) v5

In this paper I argue that the Battle of Brunanburh (937) took place on the old Roman Road betwee... more In this paper I argue that the Battle of Brunanburh (937) took place on the old Roman Road between Brough-on-Humber (Petuaria/Civitas Parisiorum) and South Cave in the East Riding of Yorkshire.

This updated to version 5 has been triggered by the need to take "Wendune" out of the argument. Hitherto I had followed the herd, accepting that this was another name for Brunanburh, but this is not the case (for details see also v2 of my paper on The Battle of White Hill 927 on this site).

Whereas the original paper dismissed other proposals mainly by disregarding them, this revision includes an examination of the claims of as many rival sites as I can identify, showing why they are to be discounted.

The basis of the positive argument for Brough lies in (a) understanding the military objectives (b) the evidence of the Annals and (c) the relevance of Beverley Minster. It is demonstrated that the place-name evidence is consistent with this site. It is suggested that the huge proportion of church dedications in the area to "All Saints" can be seen as further circumstantial evidence.

The Battle of White Hill ('Vin Heath'), 927 -the first Battle of Britain v2 (including the 1st Battle of Otterburn 926

The Battle of White Hill (927), announced in version 1 of this paper had remained unidentified by... more The Battle of White Hill (927), announced in version 1 of this paper had remained unidentified by history because of the fractured records of the times. Simeon of Durham recognises a battle of Wendune but erroneously conflates it with Brunanburh; the Skjald of Egil's Saga identifies it as Vin Heath. Apparent contradictions in the annals, part of which have arisen from conflation, are herein resolved. In this version 2, I also announce an earlier 1st Battle of Otterburn (926 "othlyn" in the Annals of Clonmacnoise). White Hill was a definitive victory for King Athelstan of Wessex. As the immediate result of the battle Athelstan reasserted control over Northumbria which he had annexed by fiat and then lost over the previous twelve months and in the treaty of Eamont Bridge, which followed hard upon this victory, the kings of Scotland and Strathclyde formally recognised Athelstan as king of all England and overlord of all Britain. As such I propose that this was the "First Battle of Britain". Without victory for Athelstan at this battle, there would have been no Battle of Brunanburh (937), so vaunted by the annalists. This paper sets this battle in its context, identifying the battlefield. This 2nd version of the paper builds on the fruits of the very active discussion of version 1. The author is grateful to the many contributors to the discussion who have made such a difference in firming up the proposition originally advanced and allowing several errors to be removed. The author hopes that the improvements will further enthuse local and, indeed, national bodies to preserve and memorialise such of the battlefield as remains otherwise undisturbed and take appropriate steps to recognise the forthcoming 1100th anniversary.

Ptolemy, Rigodunum and the Setantii: a reassessment

Rather like the site of the battle of Brunanburh the site of the Brigantian ‘polis’ of Rigodunum ... more Rather like the site of the battle of Brunanburh the site of the Brigantian ‘polis’ of Rigodunum has been subject to much wishful but very poor thinking and then endless repetition of silly ideas by those who did not think it through - or even read their sources properly!!

This paper briefly reviews what has been discussed and comes down in favour of Walton-le-Dale.
New insights into the Setantii are also offered.

The Battle of Maserfield -nowhere near Oswestry

The Battle of Maserfield where King "St" Oswald of Northumbria was killed, took place at in 641 o... more The Battle of Maserfield where King "St" Oswald of Northumbria was killed, took place at in 641 or 642. The real site was Aberford. The reasons why this has not been understood are specific. 1. The Lead Up Before 600 Ida usurped the throne of the Angles in 547, Aelle that of Ebrauc in 588. The British tried to recover these territories first led by the Gododdin at the Battle of Catterick around 600 and then by Aedan mac Gabran, King of Dalriata attempting to install Hering as a client/friendly king in 603, but they lost the Battle of Degsastan. The British had been lucky that there was a substantial infighting between the two Anglic lines, but this came to an end in the person of Edwin who was able to command pretty much the whole of the Old North pushing also into North Wales. 633-4 Edwin was finally checked-and killed-at the Battle of Hatfield in 633 by an army led by Cadwallon, King of Gwynedd supported by Penda King of Mercia (Edwin had lived as an exile in the court of Cadwallon's father). They had marched up the A1, the Great North Road, to Doncaster. The battle probably took place on the West Moor, just 4 miles from the A1 (and from the site of the Battle of White Hill 300 years later). [Some people have suggested a location for this battle at Cuckney, about 7 miles NE of Mansfield, because immediately east of Cuckney is High Hatfield and Hatfield Grange. Here we see the perils of starting off with names while giving no consideration to what was going on and why. Only a linguist/historian so far up his ivory tower that he has no conception of geography or military affairs would make such a suggestion at least without providing a firm logical basis for it.] Cadwallon then reclaimed the throne of Northumbria and held it for a year until he was killed by Oswald (634). [As Oswald sent to Iona for Aidan the following year, one might suppose that even he felt a sore need for forgiveness.] The British had suffered a severe set back. There was no-one to fill Cadwallon's shoes adequately and we may suppose that Cadwallon's immediate house carls had also been killed in action. So the leadership of the British fell to Penda-who was Anglian in his male line albeit that that line had integrated into British Society very well via intermarriage. 638-40 With the British cowed, Oswald was able to turn his attention to the north, finally disposing of the Gododdin via the successful siege of Edinburgh in 638 and extending his overlordship to the Southern Picts of greater Caledonia and the Scots of Dalriata (c640). However this control was far from secure-the natives remained hostile. So Beornhaeth, installed to be the Governor of this new realm, made his HQ not in Pictish territory as such, but at Blackness-"Urbs Iudeu". So too Oswald put Trumwine in charge of their spiritual life as "Bishop of the Picts"-but he too made his HQ not in Pictland at all, but rather next door to Beornhaeth at Abercorn. Considerable logistic support had to be reserved to maintain this control.

Encomium Pendae Regis: Penda of Mercia: Not All Angles Were The Same

Friends, Scholars, Countrymen, lend me your ears I write in praise of Penda - lang syne buriet.... more

John The Baptist (7BC-36AD): Dating Key Moments in his Life and their implications for Christianity

To my great surprise all the evidence from mutually unrelated sources has been available for 1000... more To my great surprise all the evidence from mutually unrelated sources has been available for 1000 years which enable us to triangulate the three key dates in the life of John the Baptist, albeit that because of the various ways in which different cultures stipulated eg the New Year, each year should be seen as having a margin of error of +/-1. They fit with each other seamlessly. Understanding these dates has profound implications for the gospels and hence for our understanding of the foundation and nature of Christianity.

Christianity: When and Why -A Skeleton Timeline

This paper sets out a wholly new explanation for the development of Christianity by focussing on ... more This paper sets out a wholly new explanation for the development of Christianity by focussing on the political circumstances prevalent at the various stages of that development. It argues that Jesus was a real person but that this is of at best marginal significance to Christianity. For example Christians are called Christian because of the now discontinued practice of anointing and NOT anything to do with Jesus.

At 11,000+ words this is not a short paper, but the time line structure with subheadings in between means not only that it can be skimmed very quickly but also that it is easy for anyone who wishes to to take a pause.

The 'Historical Paul' Controversy: Re-considering "Acts" with Chrestians in mind

Debate surrounds the apostle Paul, with some doubting whether he existed at all. Even if he did, ... more Debate surrounds the apostle Paul, with some doubting whether he existed at all. Even if he did, it seems generally agreed that he did not write at least some of the epistles ascribed to him. This paper suggests that the problem has arisen (due to huge amounts of re-editing) because it is supposed that Paul was a Christian. This is problematic because if he did exist when it is claimed he existed then he could not have been a Christian. A new perspective can be reached as soon as we realise that he was not a Christian but rather a Chrestian......

The 'Historical Jesus' controversy: time for some nuance

This paper is a kite-flying exercise-intended to set out a broad brush idea, adding conceptual we... more This paper is a kite-flying exercise-intended to set out a broad brush idea, adding conceptual weight to previous papers, but at this stage without the hard graft of citing sources and hence supporting the argument in detail.

Some of the ideas are raw enough that they may need substantial amendment even though I am confident I am on the right general lines. In general terms I am suggesting that while most of the argument put forward by the Historical Jesus deniers is fair and I can see how they have reached that conclusion, actually their argument does not preclude there having been someone who was later (largely misrepresented d in the Bible as Jesus.

The Anointing of Jesus

The Bible records Jesus as having been anointed twice. This paper seeks to put these events into ... more

Jesus and the politics of the Levant in his day

The purpose of this paper is to set out my proposal that, during his own lifetime, Jesus' importa... more The purpose of this paper is to set out my proposal that, during his own lifetime, Jesus' importance was principally political rather than religious (albeit he did want to clean up religious practice). This demystification process is likely to elicit howls of indignation from soi-disant Christians, but such objection would be wholly unwarranted. I have no comment to make about any connection to any 'higher power' and my propositions sit equally well in either context. My intention has been to write a book on the subject, but 'slippage' on other projects makes me concerned about when I might actually get around to it. Stimulated by the paper on this site discussing whether Jesus and John the Baptist knew each other, which completely misses the point and so is arguing in a vacuum, I have decided to put this very short and completely undigested paper into the public domain. I will not be referencing or standing up many of my proposals which are not yet in the form which could justify the label 'claim'. If this paper stimulates others-perhaps with some expertise in the area-to run with the ideas, elaborating them and finessing them where appropriate, I hope they will have the good grace to reference my work/insight as their starting point-or perhaps we can work together.

Jesus - the pre-teen years v1

The paper on this site discussing whether Jesus and John the Baptist knew each other, opened a ca... more The paper on this site discussing whether Jesus and John the Baptist knew each other, opened a can of worms I intended to come to only at some stage in the future. But watching people arguing at cross purposes and failing to see the wood for the trees has been too frustrating. This paper, following up my discussion of Levantine politics is a first attempt to deal with a small part of the problem-pulling the baby from the bathwater: instead of rubbishing claims in the Bible which can be refuted if taken at face value, my view is that many at least can be reassembled into an intelligent and coherent narrative.

Jesus - the pre-teen years v2

The paper on this site discussing whether Jesus and John the Baptist knew each other, opened a ca... more The paper on this site discussing whether Jesus and John the Baptist knew each other, opened a can of worms I intended to come to only at some stage in the future. But watching people arguing at cross purposes and failing to see the wood for the trees has been too frustrating. This paper, following up my discussion of Levantine politics is a first attempt to deal with a small part of the problem-pulling the baby from the bathwater: instead of rubbishing claims in the Bible which can be refuted if taken at face value, my view is that many at least can be reassembled into an intelligent and coherent narrative.

This version 2 benefits from comments made by participants in the discussion of the Jesus/John paper noted above and from the further analysis this has prompted (see acknowledgements below).

Jesus -The Pre-Teen Years (v3)

The purpose of this paper is to identify the several babies to be pulled out of the bathwater whi... more The purpose of this paper is to identify the several babies to be pulled out of the bathwater which are the Gospels. Indeed there are specific filters which we can apply to allow us to see through the murk. By identifying and stripping out (with care!) the mumbo-jumbo inserted by those intent on starting a new world religion, a coherent and prosaic story about Jesus' early life is there to be told.
The paper on this site discussing whether Jesus and John the Baptist knew each other, and the many interesting comments and stimulating exchanges posted in the discussion of it stimulated me to write my discussion of Levantine politics and then version 1 of this paper. The Death of Herod the Great in early 1 BCE Updated 14 09 2020 Google Docs added to the mix - stimulating more helpful comment/exchanges.

In the light of all this I offered a version 2 of my second paper - and am most grateful to the 107 participants and their 50+ comments and ongoing discussion. This version 3 takes account of the comments made.

Jesus: son of a "carpenter"? An alternative proposition

While English translations of the Bible clearly imply that Jesus' father, Joseph, was a "carpente... more While English translations of the Bible clearly imply that Jesus' father, Joseph, was a "carpenter", some scholars have taken issue with the assertion on the basis that the Greek word thus translated is "tekton"-perhaps more appropriately translated as "architect" or "builder". This paper offers an as yet fairly ill-formed alternative explanation in the hope that others will run with the idea to see how well it stands serious scrutiny.

Circumcision Understood and Reconsidered

Mystification continues to surround circumcision generally and the Jewish practice in particular.... more Mystification continues to surround circumcision generally and the Jewish practice in particular. As an acolyte of William of Occam my instincts are iconoclastic and prosaic and here I set out how the Jewish practice of circumcision can be placed within an overall paradigm not just easily but elegantly. This paper is not intended as the last word on the matter but rather to stimulate discussion in the hope that contributors will add to such little actual knowledge as I have, for the general benefit.

The Culdees, the Bones of St Andrew and the Council of Nicea

Anyone seeking to understand the name "Riaghail" (often Angliced as "Rule") will find one explana... more Anyone seeking to understand the name "Riaghail" (often Angliced as "Rule") will find one explanation only: it is supposed to be a Gaelicisation of "Regulus". This paper shows that this explanation is not true and that the real etymology has huge implications for the understanding of Celtic Christianity.

The Journey Towards Christianity: Identifying some Way Points

Not unreasonably, apparently, discussions of the origins of Christianity have tended to focus on ... more Not unreasonably, apparently, discussions of the origins of Christianity have tended to focus on religion and philosophy, but actually religion and philosophy are reactions to geography, economics and, especially, politics. This paper seeks to redress this balance. In doing so some remarkable new insights are offered.

There is much detail of which I am certainly no master, but it seems that the very act of studying in sufficient detail means that there is not enough mental room left to consider the wider aspects easily-and so I hope that this paper will provide an opportunity for those with their own specific areas of expertise to articulate with each other indirectly-and ultimately constructively.

Fabricating Christianity: some Clues are in the Names

This paper extends and refines discussion of and suggests a context for the names Nazareth, Simon... more This paper extends and refines discussion of and suggests a context for the names Nazareth, SimonPeter, Magdalene and Arimathea most of which I have mentioned in previous papers. While not coming to many firm conclusions, I hope it will serve to improve the focus for exploration of the true origins of Christianity as a religion.

Developments leading to Christianity: some miscellaneous observations

This paper is intended to help with the understanding of the development of Christianity. Paradox... more This paper is intended to help with the understanding of the development of Christianity. Paradoxically it has relatively little to say on the subject, but this is for a very good reason: such a development has mostly been considered in terms of doctrine, but actually it can only be understood properly if one first has a clear understanding of the context-especially the political context.

In this paper I consider St James the Less, The rending of the Veil at the temple and then the way various gospels treat various names-personal and place. Perhaps it is just a little grandiose to hope that this will help to reset the basis of the discussion.

'Woke' history at the BBC: a case study of the perils of 'commissioning'

For some years the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has been required to have at least a sp... more For some years the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has been required to have at least a specified minimum proportion of programmes made by private companies outside the BBC......

This paper focusses on "The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan" Series 3 Episode 1, first broadcast 14 April 2022 (re-aired Jan 2023, September 15th 2024) where he goes to Sierra Leone.
The avowed purpose of the programme is stated thus:
"....with the green light to travel for the first time since the start of
the pandemic, he is exploring the country to find out whether Brits
could and should plan their next holiday here."
I will be examining the section of the programme relating to slavery and the slave trade.

Arthur: Legend, Logic & Evidence

Thule Identified.pdf

Claudius Ptolomeus (otherwise known as Ptolemy) was a geographer who lived and worked in Alexandr... more Claudius Ptolomeus (otherwise known as Ptolemy) was a geographer who lived and worked in Alexandria, flourishing in the middle part of the second century AD. Although it should be noted that we have no evidence that Ptolemy himself drew maps, he is famous (inter alia) for the early maps of Scotland drawn by others based on the coordinates of Latitude and Longitude which he specified for Scotland's capes, bays, river mouths and settlements. He also described the pattern of tribal occupation. As well as information from the Roman occupiers of what is now Scotland he also had access to information deriving from the voyages of discovery (c325BC) of the Marseillesbased Greek explorer Pytheas.

Rolf the Ganger: NOT the first Count of Rouen

This extract from my book "Scottish Clans: Legend, Logic & Evidence" (hereafter "Scottish Clans..... more This extract from my book "Scottish Clans: Legend, Logic & Evidence" (hereafter "Scottish Clans....") sets out a fairly detailed biography of Rolf the Ganger who has been supposed to be the founder of Normandy. I show that the traditional date offered for his birth (846) is correct, but that he was NOT the first Count of Rouen, because Rolf was NOT otherwise known as Rollo. Rollo was the name of Rolf's elder half-brother who gave his name to Rolf's son. Rolf died without ever acknowledging the French king as his overlord.

Arthur: Legend, Logic & Evidence

Part One The sources are examined and discussed systematically. The sources considered are: Gilda... more Part One The sources are examined and discussed systematically. The sources considered are: Gildas, Aneurin, Bede, Nennius, Marie de France, Chrétien de Troyes, Geoffrey of Monmouth, Thomas Mallory, two anonymous authors as well as the Welsh Annals and the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle. I offer the conclusion that the time-frame for the battles is 495x520 and that the action took place in central Scotland. Part Two Careful consideration is given to the Political and Historical Geography of what is now Scotland starting from before the Roman Invasion of Britain, giving an entirely fresh view of Ptolemy's Geography of Scotland and setting out the various ebbs and flows of power from then up to the point where it became necessary for Arthur to become involved.