A culinary romp through 50 dishes that define human history—from prehistoric roasted mammoth to space-age dehydrated soup “[Uta Seeburg] brings the characters of history to life in fifty snackable essays . . . the amuse-boucheto a historical smorgasbord.”—Max Miller, New York Times–bestselling author of Tasting History Did you know that ancient Egyptians mummified beef ribs for their dearly departed to enjoy in the afterlife? That Roman gladiators were relegated to a vegan diet of grains and beans? That the fast-food hamburger was a result of a postwar, high-efficiency work ethic? This snackable collection of essays is a chronological journey through the culinary history of humankind, packed to the brim with juicy tidbits. With author Uta Seeburg as your guide, you’ll learn how certain dishes serve as windows into broader historical trends and the cultural values of the people who first invented them. As you read, you’ll discover why: Nomads in ancient Syria were deadly serious about hospitality A 16th-century cookbook author argued that beavers should be considered fish Roasted swan was the centerpiece of choice in 1650s high society—despite tasting awful A Portuguese princess was responsible for popularizing tea in England A king had to order his subjects to eat potatoes . . . and much more. Foodies and history buffs alike will savor every amusing yet educational historical snapshot, from how a bureaucratic society fixated on record-keeping brought us one of the oldest recorded recipes (lamb stew with barley and onions) to how modern-day chefs are turning invasive species into haute cuisine. How Would You Like Your Mammoth? is a fascinating look at how the food we eat defines us—and always has.

In 1943, and with Allied victory in North Africa imminent, 1st Special Air Service Regiment was in danger of being disbanded. However, with the timely and vital intervention of Major Robert Blair Mayne, the unit was saved and replaced by an organisation known as HQ Raiding Forces, and Mayne was appointed to command the Special Raiding Squadron. The heroic spirit of 1st SAS Regiment continued to thrive in the squadron, and Paddy Mayne – as he was known to his soldiers – was an inspiration to those he commanded. Through action in Sicily in July 1943, undertaking distraction missions in Bagnara and finally aiding the Eighth Army in Termoli before being recalled to the UK to aid the SAS with the invasion of France, Paddy's Men worked as a well-oiled, dangerous and fiercely loyal unit, performing skilfully under the immense pressure of war. In this book Stewart McClean provides an illustrated history of the Special Raiding Squadron, detailing the formation of the unit, the lives of the men and their operations during the Sicilian and Italian campaigns, and the extraordinary man who commanded the squadron: Robert Blair Mayne DSO, or Colonel Paddy Mayne as he became famously known throughout the world.

Includes summarized reports of many bee-keeper associations.