Step into the world of primates and their extraordinary intersections with human society in The Rest Is History podcast episode featuring historians Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland, with Emily Dean. Uncover the compelling history of monkeys in military ranks, evolving from beloved mascots to legends within the armed forces. From a Roman era macaque to World War I's Corporal Jackie, the baboon who served valiantly in the South African infantry, these stories offer a unique lens into the past where animals stood side by side with humans during some of history's pivotal moments.
Further exploring the fascination with our closest relatives in the animal kingdom, the speakers delve into the personal lives of famous figureheads and their simian companions. Hear about the chaos that unraveled in Graceland courtesy of Elvis Presley’s chimpanzee, Scatter, and the rollercoaster existence of Michael Jackson’s chimp, Bubbles, which culminates in an impactful discussion about primate welfare and the consequences of human-animal relationships. The episode also delves into the influence of primates such as Jenny the orangutan on Darwin’s groundbreaking theories on evolution, illuminating the undeniable connection between humans and our primate cousins.
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In various historical periods, monkeys have served as military mascots. These primates have had a profound impact on military life, and historians Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook explore numerous examples. A notable ancient case is a macaque unearthed in the Pyrenees, buried with military artifacts from the Roman Empire era. Evidence suggests that macaques were formally interred within Roman military bases across Europe, indicating their role as unit mascots. In World War I, Corporal Jackie the baboon joined South African infantry, managed to become a military mascot complete with a uniform, and even after being wounded, raised funds for the Red Cross. Similarly remarkable, a baboon named Jack assumed duties as a signalman on the South African railways, proving his skill and dependability over nine years.
Celebrity culture has included a fascination with pet monkeys, as evidenced by Elvis Presley's pet chimpanzee Scatter, known for his unruly behavior at Graceland. Michael Jackson's chimp Bubbles lived a life of luxury and public appearances but was eventually moved to an ape sanctuary due to his aggressive behavior as he matured. Bubbles' life in the sanctuary reflects traits that seem shaped by his past in the limelight, emphasizing the lasting impact of his formative years.
Charles Darwin's evolutionary theorizations were significantly informed by his observations of Jenny the orangutan at the London Zoo. Jenny's human-like behaviors, such as tantrums and tool use, supported Darwin's thoughts on the close relationship between humans and primates. His dedication to researching the intelligence and emotions of monkeys furthered the concept that humans share ancestry with apes, challenging the then-prevailing belief in human superiority. This perspective was a cornerstone for our modern comprehension of human evolution and our connections to other primates.
1-Page Summary
The use of animals, especially monkeys, as military mascots has been a storied part of history. Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook examine both ancient and modern examples of this practice, revealing monkeys' roles and impacts on military life.
Tom Holland discusses the discovery of a macaque's remains in a pass in the Pyrenees near the border of Spain and France. This macaque was buried with grave goods suggestive of military connections, such as belt buckles and what could be interpreted as iron armor plates, dating back to the end of the Roman Empire in the West. The macaque is believed to have been the mascot for a military unit, as similar formal macaque burials have been found throughout Roman military bases across Gaul, Germany, and Yorkshire. Macaques were not just military pets but were kept for a variety of purposes in the Roman Empire.
Dominic Sandbrook recounts the story of Corporal Jackie, a baboon who accompanied Albert Marr to World War I in 1915, becoming a mascot for the South African infantry regiment. Jackie was integrated into the military's ranks, equipped with a uniform, personal rations, and a paybook. His skills included saluting officers and partaking in social activities like lighting cigarettes. During battle, Jackie faced danger and injury, taking shrapnel to his leg and arm, which led to the amputation of his leg. Despite his injuries, Jackie contributed to the war effort back in England as a figure who helped raise money for the Red Cross. After the war, Jackie participated in a peace parade in South Africa and was awarded a medal. Unfortunately, J ...
Military Monkey Mascots Throughout History
Elvis Presley, a prominent figure in rock and roll history, famously had a pet chimpanzee named Scatter. Scatter was known for causing trouble at Graceland, Elvis's iconic Memphis home. Scatter's mischievous behavior often resulted in havoc and was an interesting side note in the legacy of the King of Rock 'n' Roll.
Following in the footsteps of Elvis, Michael Jackson too was inspired to have a pet monkey. He acquired Bubbles, a baby chimpanzee from a Texas research facility. Bubbles, at a point, seemed inseparable from Jackson, serving as an infantilized companion. He slept in a crib in Jackson's bedroom, wore diapers, and would join Jackson at the dining table and in his private cinema where they shared candies.
Bubbles became more than just a pet; he became an integral part of Jackson's public persona, accompanying him to numerous public events. This included attending high-profile engagements such as having tea with the mayor of Osaka in Japan.
However, as Bubbles grew older, his nature changed. Originally a gentle and playful companion, his behavior became more aggress ...
Celebrity Pet Monkeys
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Jenny the orangutan caught Charles Darwin's attention when he visited her at the London Zoo in March 1838. Jenny had arrived from Borneo at the end of 1837, at approximately three years of age, and was sold for £150. Kept in a heated giraffe house, Jenny not only wore human clothing but also engaged in human-like activities such as drinking tea.
During his visit, Darwin observed her behavior and reactions, which he meticulously noted. Jenny once threw a tantrum over an apple, reminiscent of a child's behavior, which indicated her capacity for such emotions. Darwin was captivated by her apparent understanding of the keeper's words and her efforts to stop whining in order to receive the apple.
Darwin went on to describe her in human-like terms, noting her intelligence and range of emotional responses. He was particularly struck by her jealousy and was convinced of her ability to use tools and groom herself. Darwin’s observation of Jenny reacting to a mirror, possibly recognizing herself, was astonishing to him and played a significant role in his evolutionary theory.
Darwin's writings, such as in "The Descent of Man," reveal that he admired the courage and camaraderie of monkeys, even declaring a preference for being descended from a heroic monkey or a brave baboon over a savage human. The hosts discuss how Darwin's theory that humans are also apes was initially met with mockery in the 19th century, leading to cartoons that depicted him as a monkey or an ape.
Amidst the mockery, Darwin's theory was a true reflection of our ties to the animal kingdom, specifically to p ...
Monkeys and Evolutionary Theory
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