Subscribe by RSS

NAUTICAL SAYINGS (DUTCH COURAGE)

IT WAS THE DRINK!
The phrase ‘Dutch courage’, which as we all know means alcohol induced bravery, was originally considered rather insulting. It came into use in the 17th Century during the Anglo-Dutch wars along with other similar phrases such as ‘go Dutch’, ‘Dutch uncle’ and ‘double Dutch’. Based on British propaganda circulated at the time it was claimed that Dutch sailors and troops were cowards and could only be coaxed into fighting through the administration of large amounts of schnapps. Of course history has shown that many famous battles have been fought and won by armies and navies fired up on strong liquor… quite a few of them by the British actually!

07-02-2012 - Bolton School Dickens World Record
04-02-2012 - Cargo Ship Hits Bridge
04-02-2012 - Snakes In The Everglades
01-02-2012 - February 2012 Competition
29-01-2012 - A Busy Year Ahead
25-01-2012 - What Is The Clipper Round The World
24-01-2012 - The Meaning Of Life
24-01-2012 - School Children Crossing Damaged Bridge
18-01-2012 - Conwy Visitor Guide
14-01-2012 - Cruise Ship Runs Aground

Harbour Guides Comments