/r/askhistorians
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“Peasant Rebellions” are often mentioned in passing and as something quickly put down, when reciting premodern history, but what did they actually look like? How did they develop? How were they lead (or not lead), and what would compel a peasant to risk their lives?
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In 1374, the Knights Hospitallers of Rhodes took over the defense of the city of Smyrna, which had previously been captured during a crusade. The Knights stayed there until 1402, when Smyrna was taken by Timur. What were the Knights' day-to-day responsibilities and duties from 1374 - 1402 in Smyrna?
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In the period you specialise in, what was the discovery that came closest to requiring you to "rewrite" the book, and what was discovered?
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In the new All Quiet on the Western Front, there’s a scene where a bunch of 18 year old’s were pumped up to join the German Army in 1917. In the original, this happened in 1914. Were 18 year old’s excited to fight in 1917?
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Before the widespread use of clocks, how were small units of time conveyed? For example: "Archers fire in thirty seconds." or "They should be here in and hour".
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Did city building civilisations such the Aztec, Maya and Inca have any concept of "civilised or uncivilised" akin to European notions of "Civilisation and barbarity" in their lexicon? Did they see themselves as different to decentralised tribal polities, or was there no clearly defined division?
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How did Zheng He transport his giraffe? Obviously, it was on the boat - but was it strapped down to prevent broken bones?
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