Twenty Thousand Hertz

The dark history of nursery rhymes

12 snips
May 29, 2024
Explore the dark history behind famous nursery rhymes, from traditional tunes to modern songs. Discover the emotional power of singing to children and the evolution of children's music. Uncover the science behind developing nursery rhymes for babies and reflect on the importance of music in childhood development.
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INSIGHT

"Baa Baa Black Sheep" and Taxes

  • "Baa Baa Black Sheep" is not about sheep, but a 13th-century English wool tax.
  • The king, church, and farmers each received a third of the wool.
INSIGHT

"Jack and Jill" and Alcohol Tax

  • "Jack and Jill" likely satirizes King Charles I's alcohol tax increase.
  • He reduced the size of alcohol measures (Jack and Jill) while keeping prices the same.
INSIGHT

"Mary Mary Quite Contrary" and Torture

  • "Mary Mary Quite Contrary" may refer to Queen Mary I's torture methods.
  • The "silver bells" and "cockle shells" could be torture devices.
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