"In the twelfth century the Basque fishermen of Biarritz used to hunt whales with deadly efficiency. When the whales sensibly moved away, the Basques chased them further and further, with the consequence that the fishermen of Biarritz discovered America before Columbus did. This is a matter for local pride but on a larger view it is not quite so stunning, since with the possible exception of the Swiss everybody discovered America before Columbus did."

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Source: Clive James (1985). “Flying Visits”

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Clive James

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Clive James was an Australian writer, critic, and broadcaster known for his sharp wit and insightful commentary on culture and life.

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