84 karma · joined November 8, 2016
Search for the SS Central America: Mathematical Treasure Hunting, Lawrence D. Stone https://www.researchgate.net/publication/247823555_Search_fo...
In ancient times, such as during the period of Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome, full-grown cows were significantly smaller than modern cattle. Based on archaeological evidence (bones and remains), historians and archaeozoologists estimate the following sizes: • Height: Approximately 100–120 cm (3.3–4 feet) at the shoulder. • Weight: Between 200–400 kg (440–880 lbs), depending on the breed, sex, and regional conditions.
For comparison: • Modern cattle like Holsteins (dairy cows) stand around 140–150 cm at the shoulder and weigh 700–900 kg. • Some smaller modern breeds, like Dexter cattle, resemble ancient cattle in stature, with a height of 90–120 cm and weight of 300–450 kg.
Factors Influencing Smaller Size in Ancient Cattle 1. Nutritional Limitations: Grazing conditions were less controlled, and fodder quality was inconsistent. 2. Genetics: Ancient cattle were not selectively bred for size like modern cattle. 3. Purpose: Cattle were primarily used for labor (draught animals) and small-scale milk production, rather than for meat.
Ancient cattle were functional animals suited to the agricultural practices and available resources of their time, so their size reflected these limitations.
https://www.wired.com/2002/05/hey-whos-that-face-in-my-song/
https://thelonelyonedotnet.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/bas17...
The concept raises questions about power, class, voyeurism, contemplation, and loneliness. Reminds me of this story (pardon the source)...
"""As for the contracts, they were usually very rigorous. The most famous arrangement between one such hermit and an aristocrat called Charles Hamilton illustrates the strict conditions under which a hermit was supposed to act:
(A hermit must) continue on the Hermitage seven years, where he shall be provided with a Bible, optical glasses, a mat for his feet, a hassock for his pillow, an hourglass for timepiece, water for his beverage, and food from the house. He must wear a camlet robe, and never, under any circumstances, must he cut his hair, beard, or nails, stray beyond the limits of Mr. Hamilton’s grounds, or exchange one word with the servant.
Unfortunately for Mr. Hamilton, the only known hermit that agreed upon these conditions lasted merely three weeks at his “workplace.” One day, he vanished from the estate and was later seen in a local pub, probably enjoying his freedom with a pint of beer."""
https://www.thevintagenews.com/2017/09/13/the-life-of-a-19th...
“MiB was originally conceived by its creator, Barry Ritholtz, as a deep dive into the minds of the most influential, savvy and successful people in the world of business & finance. The podcast explores how these folks became the professionals they are today: Who their mentors and influences were, what their personal work history is like, what books they read, even what their daily routines and thought processes are like. A listener wrote: “The show is like eavesdropping two very smart market professionals having a deep discussion over a cup of coffee.””