I love the opening line. "No two hands paint the same way. No two poets tell the same story." Swoon. I love when you take a big-picture view of cultures and places like this. I come back to them so much just for the narratives you weave.
Because he wasn't. Like I get the meme but we have found samples of his work and it was of fine quality for the day. The issue is that the people writing complaints were from a former copper empire that'd just dried up. They were used to everyone getting king-level copper for cheap, and he was selling high but standard quality (saving the best for kings as was standard). The people writing complaints were just entitled and pissed at having to deal with the standard quality and prices as everyone else. As for supply, IIRC the issue was just that everyone else had stopped selling to the region. He was having to take on a lot more clients than usual and was struggling to keep up, but unwilling to abandon them like others. Though I'm more shakey on that, there is actual research and papers on this.
It was the core and middle of nice chunk of humanity for thousands of years on all its sides , there is reason why in multiple languages it is called the central sea
The thing with historians is that you cannot specialize in everything. "The Mediterranean" consists of at least 250 cultures spread over four thousand years, five region-dominating empires and the birth of western civilization. I would much prefer Blue stay in the Mediterranean where he clearly loves the stories and has the necessary background information to blend all these stories together into a coherent narrative than to jump around the world giving surface-level analysis for novelty's sake.
*Ancient Greece:* "By Jove, what in Tartaros _are_ you?!" *Cyprus:* "I'm you, but also several alternate versions as well as half a dozen others all at the same time!"
So fun fact about the cypriot dialect we use today: While a derivative of the Greek language used today (Modern Greek), our dialect has adopted many words from other languages ("πρότσα" coming from the french "broche" meaning "fork" instead of using the greek word "πιρούνι", etc) due to the many colonisations we've had over the years. There are also still ancient greek words that are still use in our dialect ("όρνιθα" instead of "κότα" for "chicken") the syntax is different from modern greek, the phonetics as well and other aspects of the dialect. All of these to such a degree that in some instances the Greeks won't understand what we are saying even though we speak the same language. All of the greek people I've met so far, consider the cypriot dialect unofficially a "different language" and they say that our dialect sounds like we are singing instead of speaking. A lot of people believe that our dialect is the closest to the dialect they use today in Crete but in my opinion, phonetically at least, our dialect resembles more the dialect of Rhodes
Wow, that's really interesting! Reminds me of Scots as a similar equivalent for English -- whether it counts as a dialect of English or its own language depends on who you ask. It preserves a lot of archaic words from Middle English that otherwise died out. Ever heard the phrase "a language is a dialect with an army"?
@@nyxshadowhawk It's funny honestly because at school we are being taught modern greek and ancient greek as well (to some extent), one of our official languages is greek, all the government and non-government official documents are written in modern greek, and yet on a daily basis while we can understand 99% when greeks talk, they might understand only 70% or 80% just because of our vocabulary :p As for that phrase, I have never heard it but I understand the meaning behind it
This depends on what city you're from as well. People from the suburbs of Limassol where I'm from have a very harsh accent and speak with 100% Cypriot words because they are refugees (so are my parents). In Nicosia their accent and word choice is too Greek for me...
@@vacuous1331 that's true as well, the dialect gets harsher the furthest you move from Nicosia with the harshest being Pafos. And the thing is that you don't need to move away that far, the dialect becomes more heavy as soon as you approach Kakokeptria and the villages near Troodos
Bronze age: **Collapses** The island where the Bronze comes from: "Understandable, we'll be over here, chilling" Something about that is just really refreshing. XD
It is thought the local metal-workers in Cyprus improved iron production around the time of the Bronze Age collapse, with high-carbon, tempered iron coming a century later. It has even been suggested that the use of iron ores as a flux in copper-smelting led them to discover a new way of smelting iron, with the advance of furnace technology and reducing atmospheres.
As a Cypriot and a subscriber of the channel since the underworld myths video, this was a joy to watch! The island’s culture is so multifaceted and you guys did a great job showing that. Thanks Blue :)
"(my brother) don't worry i only sent so little copper because everyone is dead (my brother). literally everyone, don't worry about it (my brother). also, could you please send a lot of silver (my brother)?" vibes
Focussing on the metallurgy would be appropriate. Perhaps the perfumes, dyes and pharmaceuticals as well. Production and trade of luxury goods was one reason for their durability as a culture.
@@pattheplanter ...as was their maritime prowess that allowed for the trade of such goods. Indeed, legend has it that Bronze was invented by the legendary King Kyrinas who is said to have founded the city of Kyrenia.
Yknow, I thought Id been coping pretty well with, yknow *gestures outside* but the message at the end got me choked up I’m not gonna lie. It was genuinely comforting. “As always, there’s more work to be done” indeed.
Your neighbours up here in Canada are cheering you on! We might not be able to help you directly, but we support you and we really feel for you. Maybe I can't speak for all of us, but I can speak for a LOT of us. You'll get through this, and we're here for ya.
Heavens it was a democratic election and the candidate with the most votes won. Get over it. Y'all are such drama queens who act like the world just collapsed. If anything, this just shows that your opinion is not the majority. Instead of coping and crying and blaming and threatening, how about you go outside. Talk to others and try to understand their reasoning why they voted for the other guy. Try to find a middle ground instead of this "us or them" mentality.
As a descendant of Cypriot immigrants, it’s fascinating to know how distinct my country’s history is from Greece. Every man in the family loves talking to you about the islands classical history, and classical myths but somehow they missed it as an independent and historically rich society. This is awesome thanks Blue
@@Music-xp5wg Not… really? I should’ve clarified that I’m Greek-Cypriot… but like I’d argue that that statement is as incorrect as saying cyprus is greek. It’s… complicated????
Spent a summer doing archaeology in Cyprus on a late calcolithic period site. Found some smelting equipment lots of figurines, building foundations, obviously boatload of sherds. Good time beautiful country, amazing food. Would 1000% recommend a trip.
I've been waiting for Blue to explore Cyprus for ages! I knew he'd find it interesting. I lived there for a year and while I didn't get to explore much of it's History, the things I did get to see were fascinating and felt unique in a region that often has a lot of cultural overlap. So thanks for explaining that little mystery that has been in the back of my mind for nearly a decade now Blue.
At first, I was thinking what a delightful slice of Greek history this was. This video gave me a look into a very different culture from the ones we are used to hearing about. And then you came in with this quiet, firm, and sincere call to human decency. Now it’s my favorite video on the channel.
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
You continue to be a wonderful channel for info, history, silliness, and comfort. I am so glad you popped up on my feed a few years ago, every once in a while TH-cam gets it really right.
Blue, I love the message. That should, through all times, be the message. If you are scared, try to be strong so others can look to someone like you need someone to look to. Be there for each other.
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
Truth be told from the dna tests Cypriots did like my self we mostly are Greeks with some Italian Sardinian DNA and have more common with Crete Sicily, Peloponnesus and some islands Greece . Basically same group
The Original people of Cyprus were not Greeks though….they came later as colonists. Some Cypriots reach as high as 20% Levant DNA on AncestryDNA & 23andme
Thank you, thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for listing your sources, you have no IDEA what a breath of fresh air it is to see a bibliography on this platform, eGADS.
Thank's Blue. I needed that post statement today. I'm struggling to get my documents updated while I still can, and was asked "wouldn’t it be easier if you just didn't do that". I think the person ment well, but gods above that hurt. I needed the boost to keep pushing at the paperwork instead of breaking down, so thank you again.
I'm reminded of JFK's speech on space exploration. "We choose to go to the moon. We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win, and the others, too." I intend to win this. I know you can too.
Thank you for that closing statement. You've very clearly stated a lot of very important ideas. We'll all make it through this, and the most important thing is to keep those most vulnerable safe. To stay sane, and hold onto each other.
@@MaWa-pw6fg I do agree fearmongering is wrong, but sadly Blue isn't the only one doing it. Trump and the others Red-Blue politicians have been doing it more than wanted, really. But like, come on. 1 comment, at the end of the video, during the credits, that you can fully pass? That's all it take?
"Cyprus had ten-odd states spread across the island" Blimey, I'd love to see some deep dives on THAT little marvel of political independence. I thought it was wild there could be seven kingdoms in Great Britain at one point and it's like twenty times bigger!
Keep in mind we're talking something pretty close to city-states here. I'm seeing estimates that the region Athens controlled was about 2500 km2, but that the typical city-state was maybe a quarter the size, call it 600 km2. Cyprus is more than 9000 km2, so you've got room for ten little ones and a couple bigger ones. (Yes, not all the land of Cyprus is usable, but that would have been true for the Greek city-states as well.)
Semi-relevant, but apparently before the Spanish showed up there were _five_ (might be remembering the number wrong) Guanche states on the teeny tiny Canary Islands that had ancient histories and constantly warred with each other. There was a martial tradition so strong that a bunch of naked spearmen inflicted the worst defeat a steel-armored gun-wielding Conquistador army ever suffered. And beyond some names and archaeological evidence of their daily lives we know _nothing_ about them.
If you're talking about the Heptarchy, that's seven kingdoms in _England._ The rest of GB had other kingdoms. Even Wales had multiple kingdoms at one point.
@@sufficientlyadvancedplagiarismAthens controlled one of the largest territories amongst the Greek city states. Along with Sparta and Syracuse. Most city states were definitely much smaller, we tend to focus on the biggest and strongest ones
@@zakariyaabdullahi5669 Yep! That's why I referenced sizes for both Athens and a "typical" smaller one, which was the best I could do with some quick googling.
Hey, seriously, thank you so much for that outro, Blue. It really made my day. Keep being awesome! I've loved your content for years and years and I'll hopefully be here to enjoy for years and years to come! The video was excellent!
@MaWa-pw6fg Interesting that "things are scary but it's gonna be okay as long as we have each other," is considered to be fearmongering. It's okay that it didn't do anything for you, but there's really no reason to needlessly interject here. I hope your day gets better. :)
@@EvieProbably thats not the fearmongering, the fearmongering is the implication that something terrible is going to happen and you all need to stick together through that terrible thing, you're gonna be fine
@@p3achyfoxx It's more comforting to hear reassurance from someone who understands my fears than it is to be told I'm simply "going to be fine," by someone who is very bluntly dismissive of them. When a political party gains power by actively targeting groups of people with threats and hostility, I don't think it's unreasonable for people in those groups to be afraid of what that could mean for them. Now, please, I didn't come here to argue. I'm genuinely happy for you that you feel safe, but you shouldn't just dismiss those who don't as unreasonable. The outro made me happy--I'm sorry it couldn't do the same for you--and I wanted to let Blue know his words mattered to at least someone (although, evidently, they mattered to a lot of people). I'm not going to respond to you again, I have better things to be doing than engaging with TH-cam comment threads and I'm sure you do too. Have a great rest of your day. :)
_I will sing of beautiful golden-wreathed Aphrodite the reverent goddess who received as her lot the towers of all Cyprus on the sea where the moist force of the West wind as it blew carried her over the waves of the loud-roaring sea on the soft foam. And the Horai with their golden diadems received her happily and wrapped divine clothing around her, and on her immortal head they placed a well-wrought crown, beautiful, made of gold, and in her pierced ears they put flowers of copper and precious gold._
a sidenote: Cyprus also contains Canaanite "phoenician" remnants suggesting places such as Kition, though fewer than overtly Greek colonies, may have origins as phoenician colonies. In the case of Kition specifically, the original name may have been Kittim.
Aw. I was hoping for a more modern analysis of why Cyprus is different as well. A more full analysis could help inform people's understanding of the conflict going on there today. Can we have a part two?
Bro, every time you drop a video on a new place/time, I wanna study that shit. (I study Latin & Egyptology (& Greek & Sumerian)) [Also, thank you for the great ending]
Thanks for that end bit. I needed to hear that. Its already what I've been doing since I was old enough to understand where I lived, but holding the line with no encouraging voices or even sympathy for how hard it gets is a recipie for personal anguish. One cannot help others when they are rotting from within. You can peel the rot from others by recognizing their efforts in mundane things. Tell your friends you love them. Make a move on the person you've been staring at from across the room for a year. Give affection freely and laugh loud. Be a person. Be yourself. Be human.
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. Do not be anguished. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
That outro hit pretty hard there. Thanks for being here. You guys are a highlight of my week every week (and sometimes multiple - your 10 years of... detail diatribe you mentioned people going back and rewatching everything and im definitely among those in that category.) Keep up the good work. ❤
Have you considered maybe you fell for political fearmongering? Considering that the Dems turned on a dime from “literal H-3r” to “welcome to the White House. We look forward to ensuring a smooth transition.” They never really believed it and it was never true.
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
Never have I ever thought you guys would make a vid about this little island I live in lmaoo. Can't wait to watch (I'm from TRNC btw. Illegal country baby ✌🏻)
I enjoyed this video. It’s exactly what I expect from you guys: educational, well researched, well produced, well paced, witty, and and oddly comforting. I was surprised by the sign-off but it was so nice to hear. I love being a part of this community 🫶🏾
That ending message from you really got to me. I've been a fan for about 7-8 years or so and somehow this is the channel that keeps on giving. I really appreciate you guys and I'm grateful you'll continue to be a comfort in the next, difficult 4 years.
I guess if you have only been following for 7 years you don't remember how 8 years ago they had a meltdown about 45 first getting elected and shockingly... everything was fine. So it's crazy they are crying wolf again.
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
I hope Blue covers more Cypriot history. During and after the Byzantine era, it's also incredibly interesting and sees various influences claim a place on the island. ... Even though it does become depressing later down the line...
@M00se0nTheLoose get off CNN and NBC. It's lies just like Fox News but for the left. It'll be fine. Stop worrying about the media gaslighting. This comment will be here when it all ends up fine 4 years later
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
I heard things Astarte-d to go downhill for Cyprus when the city of Kition was gifted by the king and their citizens to a pack of rogue kittens that ultimately created a catastrophe (albeit an adorable one) for said city.
Thanks for the video! Cyprus is a fascinating little island. Its modern history is really interesting too, though in a rather different way than its older history. Also the ending message smeas so very appreciated. You guys are amazing.
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
@@zanybrainy794 His administration literally put children in cages, and some of the families his administration ripped apart _still_ aren't reunited. The US government under Trump functionally orphaned hundreds or thousands of children partly just because they could. Trump and the wider GOP have been responsible for ripping away access to healthcare for thousands upon thousands of vulnerable pregnant people, which has already caused deaths, life-changing injury and unimaginable emotional and physical trauma to countless people in red states with abortion bans. Liberty, dignity and the ability to walk down the street without a reasonable fear that you'll be assaulted has also already been ripped away from thousands upon thousands of LGBTQ+ people, especially trans and gender non-conforming people - the ridiculous culture war bullshit the GOP have been waging against queer people and trans people in particular has lead to a surge in emboldened discrimination, violence and a massive infringement on civil liberties as basic as the ability to shit in peace without being accosted by strangers. Even the house itself has passed a discriinatory rule targeting the one (1) trans member who was just elected to it, preventing her from using the bathrooms in the capitol. Don't get me wrong, looking in from the outside it's painfully obvious that Harris as a candidate was far from being a "good option" for the US (just like Clinton and Biden before her), but given what an absolute clusterfuck Trump's first term was, and how his and the GOP's rhetoric has developed in the years since it ended (including: a _literal fucking coup attempt_, remember), it's abundantly clear that Trump is _by far_ the worse option of the two.
Cyprus was the first foreign country I ever visited (in the Ancient times of the early 1990s). While I only remember a few things, those are core memories to me (eg. my first taste of feta and extra virgin olive oil, Dad taking me to an Orthodox chruch, the Market Hall in Nicosia...). Cyprus helped to awaken my love of diverse cultures. Hopefully I can visit someday again and experience more of the island.
@@enespanolporfavor6263 They've already promised to double ICE hiring rates to put people into camps. Take your fascist apologist rhetoric back to hell where it belongs.
@@enespanolporfavor6263From the republican party there has been calls to deport legal us citizens cause of their ancestry, arresting or fining people cause of being trans in public, censoring books and persecuting teachers, taking away womens rights, calls to cut life saving welfare and aid, and more, what do you mean people dont have to be fearful Podés contestar en español si tenés algo que decir
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. Don't despair, but don't panic into unexamined action. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
@zanybrainy794 difficult for other people under harris? Who? Billionares? I think they can manage, in the meanwhile under trump the people in risk are minorities, poor people, people with disabilities, women, and basically anyone that isnt a billionare, if even that
As someone from cyprus is really nice watchinc you making a video about cyprus. As awful the modern state of cyprus might be with half of our island being illegaly occupied is nice seeing the enciant history of your birth place
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
@@zanybrainy794 um what's your definition of fascist? Because he absolutely wants to empower only 1 specific group of people (rich white men) and wants to consolidate power on himself. He's already doing that by breaking down departments of government.
Every single time you upload a video about this region in general, I get a huge urge to play Assassin's Creed Odyssey. And I'm pretty sure you use some music from the game as background music to make the urge even greater
"Hey Cyprus, wanna see what catastrophic inbreeding does to a royal lineage?" I'm dead 😂😂😂 I also really appreciate the message at the end 💙"The response is not despair, it's action"
Great video, studying one of history's long-forgotten greats! And an important message at the end. Thanks guys, for standing up with education, fun and above all, people.
Learned about the cathedral in Venice in architectural history class and I kept thinking about learning about it from this channel first lol, thanks blue. Also it’s even crazier now that I know about the special techniques they used that actually make it work
I love the opening line. "No two hands paint the same way. No two poets tell the same story." Swoon.
I love when you take a big-picture view of cultures and places like this. I come back to them so much just for the narratives you weave.
Agreed
Yeah way to steal Heraklitian ideas
(I mean the best ideas)
Swoon indeed. Cyan is such a lucky woman
“Take note Ea-Nasir” how dare you imply my king, my goat, was having supply chain problems and not merely scamming people with great glee
Because he wasn't. Like I get the meme but we have found samples of his work and it was of fine quality for the day. The issue is that the people writing complaints were from a former copper empire that'd just dried up. They were used to everyone getting king-level copper for cheap, and he was selling high but standard quality (saving the best for kings as was standard). The people writing complaints were just entitled and pissed at having to deal with the standard quality and prices as everyone else.
As for supply, IIRC the issue was just that everyone else had stopped selling to the region. He was having to take on a lot more clients than usual and was struggling to keep up, but unwilling to abandon them like others. Though I'm more shakey on that, there is actual research and papers on this.
@@maromania7 I need to know more, please give me your sources :)
@@maromania7That sounds like a whole lotta iltam zumra rashubti elatim
@@maromania7 you mean a meme about history isn't the same as learning history? 😮
@@maromania7 pls point us to the sources, I didn't know we had this knowledge, that sounds interesting as fuck
On today's episode of "Blue keeps finding reasons to stay in the Mediterranean."
In all seriousness this was very cool to watch, love what you do.
Blue should cover Croatia/Ragusa at this point i'd love to see his thoughts on it
Russia should be considered a Mediterranean country look at the map it's all connected
It was the core and middle of nice chunk of humanity for thousands of years on all its sides , there is reason why in multiple languages it is called the central sea
@@chimera9818 medditeranean literally translates to middle of earth "medi terra"
The thing with historians is that you cannot specialize in everything. "The Mediterranean" consists of at least 250 cultures spread over four thousand years, five region-dominating empires and the birth of western civilization. I would much prefer Blue stay in the Mediterranean where he clearly loves the stories and has the necessary background information to blend all these stories together into a coherent narrative than to jump around the world giving surface-level analysis for novelty's sake.
*Ancient Greece:* "By Jove, what in Tartaros _are_ you?!"
*Cyprus:* "I'm you, but also several alternate versions as well as half a dozen others all at the same time!"
I am everything everywhere all at once! I Am all of me!
Cyprus: I am me.
😂😂😂
@@KazeAizen I see no, hear no evil
Black writings on the wall
Unleashed a million faces
_And One By One They Fall!_
By Zeus, not by Jove :)
So fun fact about the cypriot dialect we use today: While a derivative of the Greek language used today (Modern Greek), our dialect has adopted many words from other languages ("πρότσα" coming from the french "broche" meaning "fork" instead of using the greek word "πιρούνι", etc) due to the many colonisations we've had over the years. There are also still ancient greek words that are still use in our dialect ("όρνιθα" instead of "κότα" for "chicken") the syntax is different from modern greek, the phonetics as well and other aspects of the dialect. All of these to such a degree that in some instances the Greeks won't understand what we are saying even though we speak the same language. All of the greek people I've met so far, consider the cypriot dialect unofficially a "different language" and they say that our dialect sounds like we are singing instead of speaking. A lot of people believe that our dialect is the closest to the dialect they use today in Crete but in my opinion, phonetically at least, our dialect resembles more the dialect of Rhodes
Wow, that's really interesting! Reminds me of Scots as a similar equivalent for English -- whether it counts as a dialect of English or its own language depends on who you ask. It preserves a lot of archaic words from Middle English that otherwise died out. Ever heard the phrase "a language is a dialect with an army"?
@@nyxshadowhawk It's funny honestly because at school we are being taught modern greek and ancient greek as well (to some extent), one of our official languages is greek, all the government and non-government official documents are written in modern greek, and yet on a daily basis while we can understand 99% when greeks talk, they might understand only 70% or 80% just because of our vocabulary :p As for that phrase, I have never heard it but I understand the meaning behind it
@@nyxshadowhawk they have the army already. but not every independent nation is the same. and, as they say, cyprus breaks all the rules
This depends on what city you're from as well. People from the suburbs of Limassol where I'm from have a very harsh accent and speak with 100% Cypriot words because they are refugees (so are my parents). In Nicosia their accent and word choice is too Greek for me...
@@vacuous1331 that's true as well, the dialect gets harsher the furthest you move from Nicosia with the harshest being Pafos. And the thing is that you don't need to move away that far, the dialect becomes more heavy as soon as you approach Kakokeptria and the villages near Troodos
I SPAT OUT MY WATER I CANT BELIEVE YOU GUYS ARE COVERING MY HOME! XAIΡΕΤΙΣΜΑΤΑ ΚΑΙ ΑΓΑΠΗ ΑΠΟ ΚΥΠΡΟ!
Kyprea here too! Wouldn't be surprised if we're cousins.
@passwordyeah729 Depends hahaha which city are you from?
@@lonesomebookworm4345 I'd answer but I'd rather not dox myself heh
@@passwordyeah729 Small country problems, am I right?
Honestly it's about time. :D Cyprus sounds like a neat place.
Bronze age: **Collapses**
The island where the Bronze comes from: "Understandable, we'll be over here, chilling"
Something about that is just really refreshing. XD
It is thought the local metal-workers in Cyprus improved iron production around the time of the Bronze Age collapse, with high-carbon, tempered iron coming a century later. It has even been suggested that the use of iron ores as a flux in copper-smelting led them to discover a new way of smelting iron, with the advance of furnace technology and reducing atmospheres.
As a Cypriot and a subscriber of the channel since the underworld myths video, this was a joy to watch! The island’s culture is so multifaceted and you guys did a great job showing that. Thanks Blue :)
"breaks all the rules" me too bestie me too
Agreed
Nothing will ever beat "Alexander the Twink"..
When I heard that, it's a good thing there was no food or drink in my mouth. 🤣
My preferred one is Alexander the Okay I Guess.
Counterpoint: Alexander the Alexander
Alexander of the good cheekbones
"Alexander the Land Expander" lives rent free in my brain
As a Cypriot Greek i am so happy that you made a video about my beloved island home .Thank you very much .
OSPs refusal to call Alexander “the great” is one of my favorite running jokes on the channel ❤
He's done it once, but true it's a great running joke.
Never in my life have i ever clicked so fast in a video referencing my own country
"(my brother) don't worry i only sent so little copper because everyone is dead (my brother). literally everyone, don't worry about it (my brother). also, could you please send a lot of silver (my brother)?"
vibes
His other letters were all job postings: Exciting new opportunities in the cutting-edge technology sector situated in a desirable location.
brother, I require silver
send loops bröther
😂😂
Perfect, now a two hour special with excruciating detail of how Cyprus developed under all the Empires.
Focussing on the metallurgy would be appropriate. Perhaps the perfumes, dyes and pharmaceuticals as well. Production and trade of luxury goods was one reason for their durability as a culture.
@@pattheplanter ...as was their maritime prowess that allowed for the trade of such goods. Indeed, legend has it that Bronze was invented by the legendary King Kyrinas who is said to have founded the city of Kyrenia.
As a Cypriot, I must say, this was a great video! Thank you for researching my country's heritage and history! Ευχαριστώ!! 😊
Yknow, I thought Id been coping pretty well with, yknow *gestures outside* but the message at the end got me choked up I’m not gonna lie. It was genuinely comforting. “As always, there’s more work to be done” indeed.
yeah i really appreciated it!
I also appreciate the fact that it’s coming from Blue, the history guy.
History is happening now, and we have an active part to play.
Your neighbours up here in Canada are cheering you on! We might not be able to help you directly, but we support you and we really feel for you. Maybe I can't speak for all of us, but I can speak for a LOT of us. You'll get through this, and we're here for ya.
Heavens it was a democratic election and the candidate with the most votes won. Get over it. Y'all are such drama queens who act like the world just collapsed. If anything, this just shows that your opinion is not the majority. Instead of coping and crying and blaming and threatening, how about you go outside. Talk to others and try to understand their reasoning why they voted for the other guy. Try to find a middle ground instead of this "us or them" mentality.
You'll be fine
I’m half Cypriot and I’m glad to see such a mainstay channel across my life (I’ve been watching OSP since 2016) cover this topic!
As a descendant of Cypriot immigrants, it’s fascinating to know how distinct my country’s history is from Greece.
Every man in the family loves talking to you about the islands classical history, and classical myths but somehow they missed it as an independent and historically rich society. This is awesome thanks Blue
it's very distinct from Greece. in fact, it's Turkish
@@Music-xp5wg Not… really? I should’ve clarified that I’m Greek-Cypriot… but like I’d argue that that statement is as incorrect as saying cyprus is greek. It’s… complicated????
Bro is trying to start a war in the comments. Also we're not Turkish
I just spit out my coffee...Turkish? Is that why all archeological sites on the island from the temples, to the amphitheaters are Hellenistic?
Spent a summer doing archaeology in Cyprus on a late calcolithic period site. Found some smelting equipment lots of figurines, building foundations, obviously boatload of sherds. Good time beautiful country, amazing food. Would 1000% recommend a trip.
As a cypriot i was ecstatic when i saw this video pop up in my notifications. Amazing!
Thank you for the message at the end. It is appreciated. As Mr. Rogers said, "look for the helpers."
more like disgusting fearmongering
@@MaWa-pw6fg What do you care? You're in Saint Petersburg.
@@Brasswatchman nice insult. cant come up with anything better? im from the usa
@@MaWa-pw6fg Sure you are. 🙄
@@Brasswatchman can you actually attack what i said like a rational adult or just fling insults like a child…
I've been waiting for Blue to explore Cyprus for ages! I knew he'd find it interesting. I lived there for a year and while I didn't get to explore much of it's History, the things I did get to see were fascinating and felt unique in a region that often has a lot of cultural overlap. So thanks for explaining that little mystery that has been in the back of my mind for nearly a decade now Blue.
At first, I was thinking what a delightful slice of Greek history this was. This video gave me a look into a very different culture from the ones we are used to hearing about. And then you came in with this quiet, firm, and sincere call to human decency. Now it’s my favorite video on the channel.
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
I’ve always wanted to know more about Cyprus. I see or hear it mentioned and I’m always like “Tell me more, tell me more.”
Agreed
🎶 "Was it love at first sight?" 🎶
Please do your own research! Calling Cyprus Greek is... "a choice".
@ ok
@@ixis commenting your comment in a string where exactly zero people used the G word is a bigger "choice".
Thanks for the wholesome message at the end btw 🥺❤️
I pay a great deal of attention to what historians think about current events. Your insight is critical at a time like this.
You continue to be a wonderful channel for info, history, silliness, and comfort. I am so glad you popped up on my feed a few years ago, every once in a while TH-cam gets it really right.
I WANT A PART 2 FOR MEDIEVAL AND VENETIAN AND PART 3 FOR OTTOMAN, BRITISH AND MODERN CYPRUS!
same cyprus' medieval history is amazing.
0:23 are we about to get a ship of theseus with an entire culture?
Ship of Cyprus.
Blue, I love the message. That should, through all times, be the message. If you are scared, try to be strong so others can look to someone like you need someone to look to. Be there for each other.
the message at the end is trash😂😂😂
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
Crete, Sicily, Cyprus: I'm starting to notice a pattern here... and as a Sardinian I cannot wait
Truth be told from the dna tests Cypriots did like my self we mostly are Greeks with some Italian Sardinian DNA and have more common with Crete Sicily, Peloponnesus and some islands Greece . Basically same group
The Original people of Cyprus were not Greeks though….they came later as colonists.
Some Cypriots reach as high as 20% Levant DNA on AncestryDNA & 23andme
@@andrevaldes1645 same with cretans and others in the area.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for listing your sources, you have no IDEA what a breath of fresh air it is to see a bibliography on this platform, eGADS.
Ah, Cyprus the great, my favorite Persian Emperor.
Cyrus?
@@Ravus_Sapiens that's_the_joke.mp4
😂😂😂
Cyrus.
@@nezperce2767I know. That’s the joke.
Thank's Blue. I needed that post statement today.
I'm struggling to get my documents updated while I still can, and was asked "wouldn’t it be easier if you just didn't do that".
I think the person ment well, but gods above that hurt. I needed the boost to keep pushing at the paperwork instead of breaking down, so thank you again.
Hang in there friend, I wish you all the luck in the world getting through that paperwork ❤
I think we all did
I'm reminded of JFK's speech on space exploration.
"We choose to go to the moon. We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win, and the others, too."
I intend to win this. I know you can too.
@@ecurewitzSpeak for yourself
Sending you love and encouragement!! ❤❤❤
Thank you for that closing statement. You've very clearly stated a lot of very important ideas. We'll all make it through this, and the most important thing is to keep those most vulnerable safe. To stay sane, and hold onto each other.
the better person won
@MaWa-pw6fg That last message really did it a nerve, you just can't stop commenting on every post about it.
@@jean-bastienjoly5962 fearmongering is wrong. op shouldnt make the channel political. its disgusting
@@MaWa-pw6fg I do agree fearmongering is wrong, but sadly Blue isn't the only one doing it. Trump and the others Red-Blue politicians have been doing it more than wanted, really.
But like, come on. 1 comment, at the end of the video, during the credits, that you can fully pass? That's all it take?
@@jean-bastienjoly5962 i fight is everywhere i see it. i dont like republicans or democrats and non political channels shouldnt be taking politics🤷♀️
Imagine not being able to deliver your copper because of Nurgle, Ea-nasir what's your excuse?
Do you think Astarte came 'round to deal with the Nurgz?
I appreciate that you took some time at the end to give some encouragement to people. Current times are scary man
The people that are “so scared” can’t actually specify reasons that have any basis in reality.
I was not expecting Ea-Nasir to make a cameo, but I would expect nothing less from the best copper merchant I have ever heard of.
"Cyprus had ten-odd states spread across the island"
Blimey, I'd love to see some deep dives on THAT little marvel of political independence. I thought it was wild there could be seven kingdoms in Great Britain at one point and it's like twenty times bigger!
Keep in mind we're talking something pretty close to city-states here. I'm seeing estimates that the region Athens controlled was about 2500 km2, but that the typical city-state was maybe a quarter the size, call it 600 km2. Cyprus is more than 9000 km2, so you've got room for ten little ones and a couple bigger ones. (Yes, not all the land of Cyprus is usable, but that would have been true for the Greek city-states as well.)
Semi-relevant, but apparently before the Spanish showed up there were _five_ (might be remembering the number wrong) Guanche states on the teeny tiny Canary Islands that had ancient histories and constantly warred with each other. There was a martial tradition so strong that a bunch of naked spearmen inflicted the worst defeat a steel-armored gun-wielding Conquistador army ever suffered. And beyond some names and archaeological evidence of their daily lives we know _nothing_ about them.
If you're talking about the Heptarchy, that's seven kingdoms in _England._ The rest of GB had other kingdoms. Even Wales had multiple kingdoms at one point.
@@sufficientlyadvancedplagiarismAthens controlled one of the largest territories amongst the Greek city states. Along with Sparta and Syracuse. Most city states were definitely much smaller, we tend to focus on the biggest and strongest ones
@@zakariyaabdullahi5669 Yep! That's why I referenced sizes for both Athens and a "typical" smaller one, which was the best I could do with some quick googling.
Hey, seriously, thank you so much for that outro, Blue. It really made my day. Keep being awesome! I've loved your content for years and years and I'll hopefully be here to enjoy for years and years to come! The video was excellent!
disgusting fearmongering
@MaWa-pw6fg Interesting that "things are scary but it's gonna be okay as long as we have each other," is considered to be fearmongering. It's okay that it didn't do anything for you, but there's really no reason to needlessly interject here. I hope your day gets better. :)
@@EvieProbably thats not the fearmongering, the fearmongering is the implication that something terrible is going to happen and you all need to stick together through that terrible thing, you're gonna be fine
@@p3achyfoxx It's more comforting to hear reassurance from someone who understands my fears than it is to be told I'm simply "going to be fine," by someone who is very bluntly dismissive of them. When a political party gains power by actively targeting groups of people with threats and hostility, I don't think it's unreasonable for people in those groups to be afraid of what that could mean for them.
Now, please, I didn't come here to argue. I'm genuinely happy for you that you feel safe, but you shouldn't just dismiss those who don't as unreasonable. The outro made me happy--I'm sorry it couldn't do the same for you--and I wanted to let Blue know his words mattered to at least someone (although, evidently, they mattered to a lot of people).
I'm not going to respond to you again, I have better things to be doing than engaging with TH-cam comment threads and I'm sure you do too. Have a great rest of your day. :)
I love OSP so much... never thought the ending lines in a Blue video would make me tear up! Be safe guys!
Thank you for the ending message. Yal are some of the sweetest, most genuine people on the platform
As a Cypriot, I can give my seal of approval. Great video! ( Better than the "Aphrodite-was-from-Kythera" video! )
_I will sing of beautiful golden-wreathed Aphrodite the reverent goddess who received as her lot the towers of all Cyprus on the sea where the moist force of the West wind as it blew carried her over the waves of the loud-roaring sea on the soft foam. And the Horai with their golden diadems received her happily and wrapped divine clothing around her, and on her immortal head they placed a well-wrought crown, beautiful, made of gold, and in her pierced ears they put flowers of copper and precious gold._
Thanks for the pep talk, Blue. You and Red are the best.
Constantly retitling Alexander the pretty ok is one of my favorite OSP bits
Thank you for your statement at the end, people need to hear that good people are still out there. You rock!
@ashleycarolan1955 just like you?
I feel like this is exactly the kind of interaction we were asked to supplant with kindness and understanding.
@@walkytalky6372 Some people forgot how to be accepting of others, it seems. We can only hope it will change with time.
@@ashleycarolan1955 go grow some empathy yeesh
Gee, why would a historian of all people be concerned? Surely nothing like this has ever happened before.
a sidenote: Cyprus also contains Canaanite "phoenician" remnants suggesting places such as Kition, though fewer than overtly Greek colonies, may have origins as phoenician colonies. In the case of Kition specifically, the original name may have been Kittim.
Try the 13th BC sign
Hey Blue. I really needed to hear that end bit. I just wanted to thank you.
45 seconds, what an interesting refresh point
Loving the reference to Tumblr's favorite copper merchant.
Aw. I was hoping for a more modern analysis of why Cyprus is different as well. A more full analysis could help inform people's understanding of the conflict going on there today. Can we have a part two?
Bro, every time you drop a video on a new place/time, I wanna study that shit. (I study Latin & Egyptology (& Greek & Sumerian))
[Also, thank you for the great ending]
I just read Cyprus Breaks, and I was like, "...yeah..."
Agreed
Thanks for that end bit. I needed to hear that. Its already what I've been doing since I was old enough to understand where I lived, but holding the line with no encouraging voices or even sympathy for how hard it gets is a recipie for personal anguish.
One cannot help others when they are rotting from within.
You can peel the rot from others by recognizing their efforts in mundane things. Tell your friends you love them. Make a move on the person you've been staring at from across the room for a year. Give affection freely and laugh loud. Be a person. Be yourself. Be human.
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. Do not be anguished. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
That outro hit pretty hard there. Thanks for being here. You guys are a highlight of my week every week (and sometimes multiple - your 10 years of... detail diatribe you mentioned people going back and rewatching everything and im definitely among those in that category.)
Keep up the good work. ❤
5:43 FOR THE EMPER- oh nevermind carry on.
B R O T H E R
Thank goodness I needed this today, I've been stressed to hell and back over what's happened... Take care of yourselves everyone
Have you considered maybe you fell for political fearmongering? Considering that the Dems turned on a dime from “literal H-3r” to “welcome to the White House. We look forward to ensuring a smooth transition.” They never really believed it and it was never true.
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
Never have I ever thought you guys would make a vid about this little island I live in lmaoo. Can't wait to watch (I'm from TRNC btw. Illegal country baby ✌🏻)
You're going to run out of nicknames for Alexander one day, OSP. ^^
But today is not that day!
As a Cypriot, i LOVED this video. Really informative and unbiased. Thank you ❤
Thank you for this outro. You guys are good people ❤
I enjoyed this video. It’s exactly what I expect from you guys: educational, well researched, well produced, well paced, witty, and and oddly comforting. I was surprised by the sign-off but it was so nice to hear. I love being a part of this community 🫶🏾
Thanks for a brilliant overview of the Mediterranean's favorite saucepan, and for the step outside of Official History Business™.
Thank You Blue for the closing remark. I needed to hear it ❤️💙
What are you scared of?
TIL, Cyprus's very complicated facts on the ground we see today, such as four de facto jurisdictions, are not an exception but the norm.
That ending message from you really got to me. I've been a fan for about 7-8 years or so and somehow this is the channel that keeps on giving. I really appreciate you guys and I'm grateful you'll continue to be a comfort in the next, difficult 4 years.
I guess if you have only been following for 7 years you don't remember how 8 years ago they had a meltdown about 45 first getting elected and shockingly... everything was fine. So it's crazy they are crying wolf again.
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
I hope Blue covers more Cypriot history. During and after the Byzantine era, it's also incredibly interesting and sees various influences claim a place on the island.
... Even though it does become depressing later down the line...
That message at the end was really sweet
What's the worry about?
@rockstar450 election results in the US - a lot of people are worried about the future right now
@M00se0nTheLoose get off CNN and NBC. It's lies just like Fox News but for the left. It'll be fine. Stop worrying about the media gaslighting. This comment will be here when it all ends up fine 4 years later
And according to the popular vote, even more people are excited about the future. @@M00se0nTheLoose
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
I can't believe you guys are covering my country! I've been watching your videos for years now but I never expected this treat!
I heard things Astarte-d to go downhill for Cyprus when the city of Kition was gifted by the king and their citizens to a pack of rogue kittens that ultimately created a catastrophe (albeit an adorable one) for said city.
Cyprus will always be vulnerable to kitty related disasters.
@@mrmr446
The societies of the ancient Mediterranean sure do love their cats, it would seem! The menacing fluffs still abound Rome now!
@@Boss_IsaacFrom Rome to Catstantinople to Kition... It's 🐱 all the way down. Meowvelous and purrfect. 😊
Thanks for the video! Cyprus is a fascinating little island. Its modern history is really interesting too, though in a rather different way than its older history. Also the ending message smeas so very appreciated. You guys are amazing.
1:47 supplying 90% of everything bounds to get some customer complain. Is there one for bad copper?
2:15 I see Grandpa Nurgle has been busy ...Behold, the hand of Nergal is now in my country:..
Looks like John Milton and HP Lovecraft weren't the only ones stealing the names of Mesopotamian deities
May his gifts be ever appreciated.
Also love how Astartes coded that entire letter is. Dude uses ‘my brother’ every chance he gets.
Verily, the Rotfather's blessings were abundant and fecund in Cyprus that year.
not me breaking down into tears at the ending.
Thank you, Blue, for lending your voice to those less fortunate
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
@@zanybrainy794 His administration literally put children in cages, and some of the families his administration ripped apart _still_ aren't reunited. The US government under Trump functionally orphaned hundreds or thousands of children partly just because they could.
Trump and the wider GOP have been responsible for ripping away access to healthcare for thousands upon thousands of vulnerable pregnant people, which has already caused deaths, life-changing injury and unimaginable emotional and physical trauma to countless people in red states with abortion bans.
Liberty, dignity and the ability to walk down the street without a reasonable fear that you'll be assaulted has also already been ripped away from thousands upon thousands of LGBTQ+ people, especially trans and gender non-conforming people - the ridiculous culture war bullshit the GOP have been waging against queer people and trans people in particular has lead to a surge in emboldened discrimination, violence and a massive infringement on civil liberties as basic as the ability to shit in peace without being accosted by strangers. Even the house itself has passed a discriinatory rule targeting the one (1) trans member who was just elected to it, preventing her from using the bathrooms in the capitol.
Don't get me wrong, looking in from the outside it's painfully obvious that Harris as a candidate was far from being a "good option" for the US (just like Clinton and Biden before her), but given what an absolute clusterfuck Trump's first term was, and how his and the GOP's rhetoric has developed in the years since it ended (including: a _literal fucking coup attempt_, remember), it's abundantly clear that Trump is _by far_ the worse option of the two.
Blue casually making me tear up with that outro.
Woah... that endcard kinda hit. Thanks Blue.
As a cypriot I've been waiting for this video since i subscribed years ago. Thank you!
Thank you for that note at the end, Im tearing up
Cyprus was the first foreign country I ever visited (in the Ancient times of the early 1990s). While I only remember a few things, those are core memories to me (eg. my first taste of feta and extra virgin olive oil, Dad taking me to an Orthodox chruch, the Market Hall in Nicosia...). Cyprus helped to awaken my love of diverse cultures. Hopefully I can visit someday again and experience more of the island.
Thanks for the kind words, Blue. Right now, we need TH-camrs like you to help us stay sane and to unite us in what is sure to be rough times.
A politician I don't like is running the country =/= dark times. Gimme a break.
I have been WAITING for this!! 💙
“The response is not despair, it’s action!”
So true! 💕 We will keep each other safe!❤ 8:43 💞
Safe from what? The imaginary stormtroopers coming to take you to the camps?
@@enespanolporfavor6263 They've already promised to double ICE hiring rates to put people into camps. Take your fascist apologist rhetoric back to hell where it belongs.
@@enespanolporfavor6263From the republican party there has been calls to deport legal us citizens cause of their ancestry, arresting or fining people cause of being trans in public, censoring books and persecuting teachers, taking away womens rights, calls to cut life saving welfare and aid, and more, what do you mean people dont have to be fearful
Podés contestar en español si tenés algo que decir
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. Don't despair, but don't panic into unexamined action. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
@zanybrainy794 difficult for other people under harris? Who? Billionares? I think they can manage, in the meanwhile under trump the people in risk are minorities, poor people, people with disabilities, women, and basically anyone that isnt a billionare, if even that
As someone from cyprus is really nice watchinc you making a video about cyprus. As awful the modern state of cyprus might be with half of our island being illegaly occupied is nice seeing the enciant history of your birth place
Hand of Nergal, huh? So that's where Warhammer got it from.
And the Astartes!
Thank you for the encouragement at the end of the video, Blue! Stay safe!
Stay safe from political propaganda trying to manipulate you for votes and donations
disgusting fearmongering
Just wanted to express a heartfelt thanks for content and the message at the end, Blue! ❤ You guys rock!
Hey thanks for that end of vid comment osp. It's something I forgot I needed to hear from someone.
Real shit coming from Blue in the end, fr. From wales; I wish all of yall the best of luck. Keep your communities alive and alight.
We need to remember we're not trapped ❤
Thank you, and you as well!
I understand being upset that Trump won, but it's not like he's a fascist. It may be rough for some people, but it would be rough for different people under Harris. I understand the fear, but I don't think that a Trump victory is the end of the world. Peace and goodwill to all! Merry Christmas!
@@zanybrainy794 um what's your definition of fascist? Because he absolutely wants to empower only 1 specific group of people (rich white men) and wants to consolidate power on himself. He's already doing that by breaking down departments of government.
I wasn't expecting Blue to hit me with The Emotions at the end there.
In 2016 red bursted in tears on camera it was hilarious.
None of their doomsaying predictions about his first term were proven correct.
Cyprus: the Bronze Age Collapse was fine actually
Thank you Blue!! Just thank you and Red so much! ❤ I needed to hear that and your video was perfectly timed!
Every single time you upload a video about this region in general, I get a huge urge to play Assassin's Creed Odyssey. And I'm pretty sure you use some music from the game as background music to make the urge even greater
Damn, he beat me to the Ea-Nasir joke. Ah well, I shouldn't be surprised honestly.
"Hey Cyprus, wanna see what catastrophic inbreeding does to a royal lineage?" I'm dead 😂😂😂
I also really appreciate the message at the end 💙"The response is not despair, it's action"
i was not expecting a video about my home country! :D
Great video, studying one of history's long-forgotten greats! And an important message at the end. Thanks guys, for standing up with education, fun and above all, people.
The bit in the credits actually almost made me cry ;w; Thanks for the encouragement Blue!
Learned about the cathedral in Venice in architectural history class and I kept thinking about learning about it from this channel first lol, thanks blue. Also it’s even crazier now that I know about the special techniques they used that actually make it work