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Robert Walpole, a member of the Whig faction, is largely considered to be the first ever Prime Minister of Great Britain It was on this day in 1735 became the first to live at number 10 Downing Street, contributing to the evolution of our political system.

Walpole’s influence within the cabinet is believed to have lead to the conventions of the Prime Minister and the powers of the Prime Minister, which are still accepted to this day. Walpole created a very significant piece of British History. By moving into number 10 Downing Street, he laid the foundations for many of the British traditions we see today.

The anniversary of Robert Walpole moving into number 10 is a true reason to be proud to be British. It has influenced many of the accepted political ideas, which have taken an important place in the structure of our parliament and an important place in part of a political system, which is admired by most of the world.

 

 

Image credit: Robertsharp

Next time you’re stuck in traffic on the motorway, don’t huff and puff, roll your eyes or complain as it could be a lot worse. Instead, thank John McAdam for the smooth hard surface you probably use in some form every day.

McAdam was born on this day over 250 years ago. He was a Scottish engineer and road builder, who perhaps was tired of driving on muddy, uneven dirt tracks and came up with the solution of sticking the rocky road surface together with tarmac (for tar and McAdam).

So next time your stressed and late in a 3 mile long, bumper to bumper jam just think of the great British McAdam, and be proud of our high quality British roads which we often take for granted!

 

 

 

Image credit: Suicine

What could possibly be more British than the small but perfectly formed Mini? The distinctive car can be seen on every street at least multiple times. The Mini was originally designed to be a little run around that was economic and cheap to run; no one imagined it would still be here more than half a century on.

It wasn’t always as popular, when it was first launched the general public thought the car was ‘odd’ however once the queen had been spotted taking it for a spin the car became a major fashion item. In the 60’s it was the coolest thing to be seen with, and everyone who was anyone had to be seen in them – The Beatles had one each! It was just as iconic as the London red bus as all TV and film directors wanted to display the Mini.

The original designer of the Mini, Sir Alec Issigonis (1906-1988), would be extremely proud of his revolutionary creation, and even more so of achieving the largest production total of any British car at a massive 5.4 million. They even appeared as the star of the show in The Italian Job – in blue, white and red so typically British.

Over the years, the Mini may have changed however all the quirky features and original characteristics have remained the same. This is what makes it one of the most successful and loved British cars of all time.

 

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British food fortnight sounds like heaven on earth; it’s the celebration of all things British and edible. It was held for the first time in 2002 after the realisation that although there were many food projects, initiatives and events across the country, there was not one main event that would bring the two weeks to the publics attention. Its working too, as the sales of British food during the fortnight increases by over £15 million each year!

The event highlights the benefits of eating healthy, high quality, fresh and local produce – and all the pleasures that come with it too! Since 2002 the event has grown quickly and since become the national celebration of good old British grub. It involves a variety of sectors from businesses, education, retail, catering and volunteering – everyone wants to be involved with the celebrations of our nations amazing culinary delights.

There will be hundreds of activities taking place up and down the country, so get involved! From tastings to food and drink festivals, there will be something for everyone.

So indulge in your guilty pleasure whether it be fish and chips or steak with all the sides. There won’t be a better reason to stuff your face with good food and wash it down with cold drinks this year (all in the name of tradition!).

 

Image credit: firepile

Mods VS Rockers – that’s what the early-mid 1960’s was all about. They were two conflicting British sub-cultures both controlled by music, fashion and the love of petrol bikes – however, with extreme conflicting ideas of what was right.

Mods were all for tailor fitted suits and clean cut outfits, the smooth sounds of soul, jazz and the blues whilst riding pristine scooters. In contrast, were the Rockers with the biker gang image, who wore leather jackets and biking boots, rode heavy motorbikes and listened to rock & roll. With such conflicting morals and taste it’s no wonder the groups didn’t see eye to eye.

Although the media claimed there was violence and brawls between the two, many have disagreed, and the question may be asked: what kind of Mod would want to get his designer suit dirty?!

Although, in the 60’s Mods and Rockers were frowned upon there is no shadow of a doubt that they still influence today’s fashion and music cultures – the leather jacket is a timeless piece of clothing, leather boots and clean cut suits are still worn by everyone and rock music such as Linkin Park is still, if not even more popular today.

So, Mod or Rocker – what would you choose?

 

Image credit: Phill Sellens

“Example is the school of mankind, and they will learn at no other.” – Edmund Burke

 

 

 

Image credit: frankjuarez