www.whatwasmagazine.co.uk
Issue No. 124, May 2011
£ 3.20
WHAT WAS MAGAZINE WHY YOU MUST VISIT BERLIN!
CHANGE THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM?
LOVE BETWEEN ENEMIES!
GET INVOLVED WITH HISTORY!
It only takes a second to put on a poppy
www.britishlegion.co.uk Copyright of FreeFoto.com and the British Legion
Contents IN THIS MONTH’S EDITION:
“Your Letters”
-page 4
“On This Day in History”
-page 5
Feature: “How To: Get Involved In History”
-page 6-7
Opinion “Should We Be Learning More About British History?”
-page 8
The Modernisation of the Royals
-page 9
Review: “Why You Should Visit Berlin”
-page 10-11
Profile: “A Modern Day Romeo and Juliet”
-page 12-13
What’s On Guide
-page 14
TV & Film
-page 15
What Was Magazine, May 2011
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his month’s edition brings you the true story of an English woman who fell in love with a German soldier just five years after the second world war and how their love overcame prejudice. A feature on volunteering tells you the benefits of unpaid work in the History sector, whilst we spark a debate on whether the lack of British-based history taught at high schools is affecting the nationalism and pride of our nation. There’s plenty more interesting articles so do not hesitate to send us in your stories, letters and feedback! Jessica Neumann Editor
YOUR LETTERS WW Magazine, Many thanks for another excellent issue in April. I was particularly interested in the feature on the Irish Potato Famine in 1846. It was interesting to see how you portrayed the opinions of the British general public, instead of focusing on the blame of the government. Fantastic!
Mrs A. Walshe
To the editor, Contact Details: Editorial: Jessica Neumann, Editor jessicaneumann@wwmagazine.co.uk (0132) 373 8457 Advertising: Sophie Morgan, Advertisement Editor sophiemorgan@wwmagazine.co.uk (0132) 373 8458 Circulation: Jennifer Quinn, Circulation jenniferquinn@ wwmagazine.co.uk (0132) 373 8459
I have been a reader of your magazine for six months now and have just renewed my subscription. I find it such a fascinating read, however I was dismayed to find an error in last months feature on italian unification. You stated Rome became the capital in 1870, however in actual fact the plebiscite did not come to action until 1871. Yours Sincerely, A.Iqbal.
WW Magazine, I am always trying to involve myself in history and this month me and my friends volunteered at an archaeological dig at the Roman Ampitheatre in Chester. It was so fascinating and a great day was had by all! I can’t wait to get involved with the next dig!
Dean Paton
(Ed: Check out pages 6-7 for a feature on how else to get involved with history!)
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Dean Paton at the archaeological dig in Chester, 2011.
ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY:
2nd MAY, 1945
Photograph copyright of Creative Cloud By Jessica Neumann
The London News Chronicle, May 1st, 1945
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hen newspapers hit the shelves of British shops on May 2nd, 1945, headlines sent shockwaves across the nation. Adolf Hitler, dictator of Germany, had died.
It was a defining moment in history as it signified, for many, the end of dictatorship, genocide and radicalism across many countries in Europe. Germany reported the death of the Fuhrer at 22:30pm, May 1st, yet many did not hear the news until reading the morning paper the next day. Josie Chance, 74, recalls her feelings upon finding out, “I was only eight years old, but I was shocked and I knew that it was good news. My parents cried.” Much controversy and speculation followed the publication of this headline as nobody could be sure Hitler was dead and feared he had staged his death to avoid capture from the Allies. A British radio announcement stated: “The news was broadcast from the Hamburg radio and then a rota of conflicting rumours leaving considerable datas to the truth of the story. “In view of these reports, and the lack of absolute proof of Hitler’s death, it may take quite some time before
the Allies are firmly convinced that he is not in hiding.” In the days before his suicide, he issued a Political Testament in which he continued to show no remorse and blame the Jewish for the innumerable and shocking deaths across Europe. Of his impending death, he stated: “I have decided therefore to remain in Berlin and there of my own free will to choose death at the moment when I believe the position of the Fuehrer and Chancellor itself can no longer be held.” He maintained belief he was in complete control of his future, despite allied forces creeping further towards his bunker in Berlin. Under Hitler’s regime there were over 70 million military and civilian deaths, including over 11 million victims of Hitler’s policy of extermination. He targeted not only the Jewish, but homosexuals, the physically and mentally handicapped, prisoners of war, and many more people who had different ethnicities and political or religious beliefs. This day in 1945 brought joy to millions all over the world and must serve as a reminder of the tragedies that occurred under his rule. Hitler’s prophesized ‘Thousand Year Reich’ ended the day he killed himself, however his actions have left a huge mark on the entire world and will never be forgotten.
“I was only eight years old, but I was shocked and I knew that it was good news. My parents cried.”
What Was Magazine, May 2011
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HOW TO:
GET INVOLVED WITH HISTORY
GET INVOL HIST
Volunteering is becomin particularly in the time of rec perience is highly beneficial. advantages of unpaid work i
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n recent years volunteer work has become less focused upon getting an edge over other candidates for a job, and more for the participant’s personal enjoyment. Anyone
with an interest in History and Heritage can give up their time and enrich themselves with a variety of inspiring and exciting roles. Tamworth Castle, situated in Staffordshire, is a prime example of the positions volunteers can take and the benefits they can attain. The castle has been running as a tourism attraction formally since 1995, and has a rich history spanning over 1000 years. The castle interior has been
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designed to mimic various eras throughout history, including Medieval, Tudor and Victorian, with volunteers dressing in authentic costume and mimicking previous owners whilst educating and entertaining visitors. Kirsty Sherwood, Education and Events Officer, believes the volunteering roles at the castle are invaluable and engaging for both the volunteer and for the visitors, “Not only does the programme have the benefit of bringing history to life and enabling visitors to interact with the interpreters but it also increases the amount of time visitors spend in the castle and encourages repeat visits.” With military reinactments and guided tours, Tamworth Castle offers a lot for everyone involved and it particularly popular with schools, tourists and the over 60s. Steven Davies, 22, a volunteer in military reinactments, believes his work at the castle has changed his life after taking part in a ‘Castle by Candlelight’ evening. His interest progressed and he donated his time to Medieval and Civil war reinactments. Speaking of his experience, he said: “Participating in these events has also led me to create my own business retailing all period items suitable for re-enactment.” His business has been operational for two years and has brought him great success producing reinactment grade armour and helmets. This is just one example of how volunteering can enhance your skills and interest in a subject.
“Telling st the heart experience the experie rabl
LVED WITH TORY
ng increasingly popular, cession , where any extra exJessica Neumann tells us the in History in your local area. Kirsty said: “Telling stories is at the heart of all our experiences, it makes the experience memorable – enlivening the museum environment .” She firmly believes role play is a vital and important education method as it is variable with regard to the audience’s interests and understanding. An audience survey (Audience Central Report Survey, 2010), showed that 58.1% of the castle’s customers wanted to see more costumed characters and role play, something the castle has continued to increase over the years. A huge 77.9% also said they would like to be involved with living history which shows the popularity and satisfaction which comes from such work. Tamworth Castle receives modest funding from the local council, and so it relies on the volunteer work of individuals to create such an exciting and inspiring environment. Suitable for any age group, volunteering is particularly fulfilling for those who are retired and interested in spending their free time nurturing a hobby or interest in history. Thos interested need not have previous amateur dramatic experience, nor a particular knowledge of history, however it helps! There are also many roles that do not require being in the spotlight, such as archiving and researching. Tamworth Castle isn’t the only place to volunteer,
tories is at of all our es, it makes ence memole!”
What Was Magazine, May 2011
there are many other different positions and establishments across the country that encourage volunteering and it is an excellent way to spend your time and get involved with such a satisfying and rewarding cause! For more information visit www. volunteeringengland.co.uk or contact your local council or preferred establishment and get involved!
Tamworth Castle St. George’s Day celebration volunteers. Photographs copyright of Jessica Neumann.
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Opinion:
Horrible Histories? The children of today are focusing on foreign history instead of learning more about Britain’s rich and exciting past. The National Curriculum should educate the youth of today on the events that have built this kingdom to what it is today. By Jessica Neumann
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ritain is in a state of unrest with many questioning the fading nationalism of our once fiercely patriotic nation; but instead of blaming immigration and the media, can this all be traced back to a deficiency of knowledge of how our country became what it is today? Young people today lack awareness of core events in British history, such as Oliver Cromwell, the Gunpowder Plot and the rise and fall of the British Empire. Such events have shaped the way this country is ran and the policies government figures implement, which are vitally important. The National Curriculum is a body designed to standardize the material and content studied in primary and secondary schools in order to allow assessment. It is only enforced in England, Northern Ireland and Wales, yet students are found to be studying considerably irrelevant subjects such as the American West and Prohibition. These topics have little relevance to everyday life in the United Kingdom, nor do they provide anything to the background of the history of our incredibly rich and interesting nation. If schools were to focus on the events that have shaped this country and its government, a firmer understanding and tolerance of
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different nationalities and patriotism of the country would blossom. A recent poll found that 38% of people thought the subjects studied in history at school were mostly irrelevant to Britain, whilst just 29% thought the opposite.* Children in England have been taught the history of the American West and the French Revolution, which, without further context of Europe at the time, is completely irrelevant to Britain. It is an outrage that the people who built this country are being gradually forgotten. The National Curriculum has previously come under fire for focusing on ‘Hitler and the Henrys’ and no other relevant British history. British historian, Niall Ferguson, argues this is where Britain fails its students, “History, it might be said, has never been more popular, yet there is a painful paradox at the very same time, that it has never been less popular in British schools.” This is particularly true as Britain is one of the few countries in Europe that does not have history in the core curriculum for GCSE study. It is time the government changed the curriculum to encourage a sense of pride and nationalism based on solid foundations of knowledge and education, instead of propaganda and prejudice.
* The remaining 33% could not remember the topics taught in history. Poll taken in Chester High street, age range 17-60years.
Opinion:
The Modernisation Of the Royals Catherine of Aragon
Queen Mary I
By Jessica Neumann
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he recent marriage of Prince William caused national celebration as he joined matrimony with commoner, Kate Middleton, but how has royal alliances changed throughout the centuries?
Royal unions have, in the past, been used to forge foreign alliances, prevent war and better trade between nations; but looking back at some of the country’s most notorious marriages, there is a clear change in monarchical priorities. Queen Katherine of Aragon married King Henry VIII in 1509, after having married his brother, Prince Arthur, just eight years previously. She was Princess of Spain and her marriage to a British Prince had been arranged since she was just three years old. Their union was primarily aimed at political gain and the insistency of her marrying into the Tudor family twice proves that both families were keen to benefit from the alliance. The next drastic progression of the royal family was the first crowned Queen, Mary I. With a lack of male heirs, she became Queen by default in 1553 after the death of her half-brother, Edward VI. This was a drastic step in the monarchy as there had never before been a Queen who hadn’t married into the royal family and had a King by her side. It was a reluctant move on behalf of the country yet a radical nod toward progression.
What Was Magazine, May 2011
Maria Anne Fitzherbert
Kate Middleton
Despite this progression, in the eighteenth century it was clear royal weddings were still political. Maria Anne Fitzherbert, a commoner with no titles, illegally married the future King George IV in 1785, as they believed themselves to be in love. It was a drastic action for such an important public figure, and was done secretly to avoid opposition and conflict. Despite this, they were found out and their marriage was never accepted by the royal family, although confirmed by Pope Pius VII. Her low social standing rendered her unfit to marry so highly and so, despite remaining the love of the King’s life, they were refused acceptance and separated. Flash forward to 2011 and the future King of England has married a woman of no title and comparatively low social standing, yet the country, and the monarchy, have grown to accept and love her. Having met at university, the couple became an item after a ‘shared sense of humour’ drew them together, a far cry from the arranged, political marriages of the past. This humanisation of the royal family shows just how far we have progressed from marriages purely for political gain, allowing a woman on the throne only by default, to refusing to accept the love of a commoner and the King. Kate Middleton is widely loved by the nation and, like William’s mother, Princess Diana, is sure to be a Queen of the People.
Photographs courtesy of the BBC
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VISIT B Berlin Cathedral
Arguably one of the most historical cit and plenty of beautiful architectural su diverse culture and astounding architec and why Berlin
By Jessica Neumann
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round every corner in this beautiful city there lies a new gem to be discovered. A treasure trove of historical and architectural delights, Berlin is undoubtedly one of the most breathtakingly cultural capitals in Europe. Atruly diverse place, the city is suitable for any age, particularly due to its huge range of attractions, legendary nightlife and, unlike many other capitals, reasonable pricing. In terms of its historical significance, Berlin is unrivalled. In the past 100 years it has experienced two very significant events; the rise and fall of Nazi Germany by 1945, and the East and West divide, with the tearing down of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Natascha Kompatzki, a spokesperson for Visit Berlin, believes it is a truly unique place, “Berlin is reflecting history like no other city in the world. You can find places of the Nazi period, the German Democratic Republic (GDR) times all over the city and still find traces of the former divided Berlin.” Evidence of its former history can be seen all over the city, accessed by the tourist-friendly U-Bahn, underground transport system.
The Olympiastadion
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With the Brandenburg Gate situated on the doorstep of the Reichstag Parliament building, the grounds are surrounded by vast pieces of architecture and artistic sculptures to emphasize the richness and glory of the city, something that did not fade away with its past. Berlin is home to the Olympiastadion, in which Germany hosted the Olympic Games in 1936. It is here that Adolf Hitler displayed his ‘new Germany’, with the country’s athletes winning 6 gold and silver awards. The participating nations were unaware at this point of Hitler’s hidden Germany, with Jewish persecution covered up to present an idyllic and forward thinking country. Another reminder of Berlin’s past is the symbolic Checkpoint Charlie monument and museum. It is the former point where American occupation ended and Communist rule began, with the poignant warning “YOU ARE NOW LEAVING THE AMERICAN SECTOR”, in English, Russian, French and German. On the same street there lies the museum which documents the lives of the Germans trapped behind the wall in the 28 years it existed. A thought-provoking experience, it is a key attraction in the city and a must-see for anyone interested in Berlin’s past. Berlin Cathedral is a prime example of the astoundingly beautiful architecture present in the country. With its ornate arches, domes and detailing , it is a breathtaking symbol of the country’s cultural and architectural beauty. The city’s historial museum lies to the right, and just behind the cathedral lies the old market square of Alexanderplatz, which is host to the viewing podium, Fernsehturm. Totaling 368 metres high it is an ideal place for tour-
“Berlin is edly one o breathta cultural c Euro
“Berlin different with new c events museums a never get
BERLIN
ties in Europe, Berlin has a rich culture urroundings. From its bustling nightlife, cture, Jessica Neumann reviews the city n is a must-see! ists who want to see the entire city from a spectacular height. A short walk away is one of Berlin’s most famous free attractions: the Berlin Wall. It formerly divided the East and the West and was built by the GDR, under which 192 people were killed trying to escape, and 200 injured by gunfire. It was a symbol of oppression and domination. In 1989 when the first steps to its destruction were taken, artists flocked from all over the world to mark this liberating and momentous occasion by painting inspiring images along the remaining 1.3km strip. It has now become a symbol of peace and freedom, whilst also an ominous reminder of the past. Despite its rich history, Berlin is as contemporary and forward as London, Milan or Paris, with its wide range of restaurants, bars, high street and designer shops. It is a place suitable for any age as Berlin is a city with something for everyone. Natascha strongly feels Berlin is a place that is constantly changing, and so will always be a city tourists can return to year after year, “I love to promote this city and our guests always want to come back, even though they might have visited Berlin two years ago. “Berlin will be different this year, with new clubs, new events, new museums and it will never get boring.” A metropolitan city, the locals are helpful and English is very widely-spoken, which makes exploring the city a pleasure! For anyone interested in culture, architecture, history, or for those who simply just want to explore a new a new part of the world that has stunning scenery and friendly locals, Berlin is the place for you.
s undoubtof the most akingly capitals in ope.”
will be this year, clubs, new s, new and it will t boring.”
See what Berlin has to offer at www.visitberlin.com
What Was Magazine, May 2011
Berlin’s Top Five Attractions The Brandenburg Gate As symbolic as it is historical, the gate signified the political and geographical divide between East and West Germany. A beautiful piece of architecture. East Side Gallery This 1.3km stretch of the former Berlin Wall has been transformed into a piece of art. Signifying the joy of liberation and freedom it hosts over 100 pieces of art work. The Reichstag One of Berlin’s finest architectural buildings, the Reichstag is the home of the German Parliament. It is a must-see to anyone interested in the politcal and architectural history of Germany. Checkpoint Charlie Another symbolic reminder of the Cold War divide, it marks the former territory of American occupation. The museum facing it is a poignant tribute to the bravery of fleeing Germans. Alexanderplatz This 1,207 foot high television tower is an ideal place to view Berlin’s beautiful surroundings. One of the most visited places, it brings in over one million tourists every year.
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Profile:
A Modern D Romeo a Audrey Cantrelle in the 1940s
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t’s 1950 in England and the country is torn by war. Ruined buildings are being reconstructed and people are still mourning their losses from the devastation of World War Two. Hostility against the enemy is rife, but amidst this, love between enemies was born. It was this year that Audrey Cantrelle met Werner Neumann, a young former soldier of the German army and prisoner of war. Born in Kaliningrad, formerly the northern part of East Prussia, Werner was conscripted into the German Army as a foot soldier. After being taken captive in 1944 in Holland, Werner was taken to France, finally ending up in Port Harwich, Norfolk where he found he was treated considerably well by the British soldiers. By 1945 he had decided to stay in the country. He fell
The couple had a long and successful marriage
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By Jessica in love with the English countryside and way of life and working out in the fields in a cottage with four others, soon becoming friends with a group of Englishmen, including Audrey’s father. The effects of the war were still visible as rations continued on years after the war had ended. In 1950 Audrey went to her local pub to see if she could get any sugar and tea for her family, “My father had told me of a man he knew who didn’t use his sugar and tea rations, and so sent me to the local pub to see if I could get them. “I didn’t know I’d end up coming out with a date for the very next day.” Despite Werner having served for the German army, Audrey and her parents fell for his charm and charisma and he was welcomed into the family, “He got on ever so well with my mother, people who knew him loved him, he was just a very loveable man.” Not everyone, however, was as accommodating. Audrey recalls how some people were not able to ignore the barriers of nationality and previous events and criticised her for her choices, “There were inevitably people
“I didn’t c people thou just me and
Day Tale of and Juliet Wermer Neumann in the 1950s.
a Neumann who didn’t approve, mostly neighbours. One man in particular had fought in the war and been a prisoner in Germany and he made it clear he didn’t approve.” During the 1950s English people were still very aware of the damage and losses of the war, and even today, Germany carries the stigma of England’s lost soldiers and civilians, with some people still harbouring hostilities. Despite this, their love was strong enough to overcome the prejudices and stereotypes . When asked whether she paid any attention to the disapprovals of her neighbours she replied: “Not in the slightest, I didn’t care about what people thought, it was just me and Werner.” Their love blossomed and after two years of courting, they married in Grantham at a registry office, followed by a reception at Audrey’s mother’s house. Audrey wore a blue satin dress and a courduroy coat and had the wedding on a tight budget, a far cry from many contemporary unions. “Things were different then, we weren’t allowed to live together and we married after two years.” Unfortunately, none of Werner’s family were present as he had had to leave them all behind when he joined the army. The couple settled in Grantham and
care what ught, it was d Werner. ”
What Was Magazine, May 2011
started their family; their marriage was a testament to their love as fifty-nine years later they were still going strong. Together they travelled the world and had many great experiences, including a visit back to Werner’s hometown in 1995. Tragically, Werner fell ill and passed away in November, 2010, aged eighty-five years old. He left behind a huge hole in the hearts of his family, but his legacy lives on as he left behind five children, eleven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, with another on the way! The story of Werner and Audrey Neumann shows us that love reaally does come first, and it can overcome obstacles, even in post-war Britain when prejudice was widespread. Such an untouchable love is a rarity nowadays and so it is a particularly moving story to see it blossom through such an uninviting environment, when not only were their neighbours against them, but an entire nation.
On a visit to Werner’s hometown, Kaliningrad, 1995
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What’s On Guide:
May 2011
Spend this summer month exploring what Britain has to offer with a variety of historical and recreational events. North of England East Lancashire Railway, 1940s Wartime Weekend. Reinactments, stalls and entertainment, a great family event. 28th-30th May, 2011, 0161 764 7790.
Midlands
Black Country History Museum Motor Company. For fans of the motor industry and it’s rich history.
7th May, 2011, 0121 520 8054.
East of England
Scotland
Essex, Royal Gunpowder Mills, VE Day Celebrations: With reinactments and 1940’s memorablilia, help commemorate this momentous day in history. Prices vary.
National Museum of Scotland: A Slice of Life: May Day Special. Stories from characters of Scotland’s past. Free.
1-2 may, 2011, 10:00-17:00pm, 01992 707370.
1st-2nd May, 2011. 11:00-13:00pm
South of England
N.Ireland
Hampshire, Jane Austen’s Museum: Writing workshop: Secrets, Plotting and Irony. £20
Belfast Central Library: Book launch, The Belfast Blitz: The People’s Story. Free. Booking advisable.
21st may, 2011, 11:00-15:30pm, 01420 83262.
West of England Hereford, Hampton Court Castle & Gardens, Great Spring Garden Event. Fun for garden enthusiasts, includes stalls and refreshments. £6. 5th May, 10:30-16:30pm, 0844 893 0080.
9th may, 2011, 16:30pm 028 9050 9162.
Wales History Mystery Day: Tudor Merchant’s House. Go back in time and discover the lives of the Tudor’s in this fascinating tour. 2nd May, 2011, 11:00am 01834 842279
If you’d like your event advertised please contact the advertisements editor, Sophie Morgan , at sophiemorgan@wwmagazineco.uk, or on (0132) 373 8458. 14
TV & Film: The King’s Speech DVD release 9th May 2011
The story of King George VI’s struggle with overcoming his stutter after unexpectedly gaining the throne. With everyone around him believing him unfit to be King, George, played by Colin Firth, seeks the help of a speech therapist and overcomes his inability and leads his country to war. Winning four oscars, the King’s Speech is an enlightening insight into the monarchy.
Dambusters: Building the > Bouncing Bomb, C4, Mon 2nd May, 8pm. Dr Hugh Hunt recreates a bomb used in 1943 to destroy German dams. Its qualities included the ability to bounce off water, giving Britain an edge over the enemy. The show explores the engineering behind it. Boudica’s Lost Tribe: A Time > Team Special, C4, Wed 4th May, 9pm. Tony Robinson leads an investigation into the Icendi tribe under Boudicca, who rose up against the Roman invasion. Megaquake: Hour That Shook Japan, Discovery, Sun, 1st May, 8pm. This show investigates the science behind the earthquake that devastated Japan earlier this year. They look into the future implications for the planet after the disaster.
Gladiator, ITV2, Mon 2nd May, 9pm. Russell Crowe plays a vengeful Roman soldier seeking retribution after the brutal murder of his family. Winner of five Oscars, Crowe oozes passion and plays the role convincingly. A fascinating and emotional watch for any audience!
Alexander, ITV2, Wed 4th May, 11pm. This all star cast recreates the story of one of the greatest kings of Warfare, Alexander the Great, directed by Oliver Stone. Highlighting both Alexander’s personal family life, as well as his military conquers, it is fascinating and highly entertaining. <
Photos courtesy of Universal Pictures
What Was Magazine, May 2011
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WWW.VISITGREECE.GR Jessica Neumann ©