History Behind the Headlines: Elections, ‘panda diplomacy’ and the word of the year
History Extra podcast
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Animals as Diplomatic Gifts and Symbolic Meanings
Exploring the historical practice of giving animals as diplomatic gifts, this chapter reveals the symbolic meanings behind these gifts and provides examples of notable animal presents throughout history. It delves into cultural differences in symbolic interpretations, touches upon Marco Polo's encounter with a unicorn (likely a rhinoceros), and discusses the present-day challenges of giving rhinoceros as a diplomatic gift due to conservation concerns.
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