RB>WD> I would doubt that strongly in an American school.
RB> I suppose you know I went to school in the States.
Yes, I do. I'm not really that impressed by the American school system. Especially the languages-part.
RB> Interesting, but only background in the present. I find Latin useful in RB> interpreting romanic languages, but as a current spoken language only in RB> the Vatican City.
Correct, as a background in languages it is a great facilitator.
When I started with it in 1962 my parents enrolled me in it without even discussing or talking to me. It was a matter of prestige for them "Our son is a latinist". Actually, I enjoyed it because so much of the instruction was historical based on aspects of ancient Rome and history was always my thing, I liked it.
RB> Interpret things as you please. Belgium did not exist until 1830 anyway. RB> And even now consists of two "tribes" (ignoring the German part of the RB> population), as you well know.
When does a country "exist"? Nowadays I think membership and acceptance by the UN is the prime criterium. But what in 1830? What in 1776? What in 1066?
Having defendable borders and an armed force to enforce them? The Menapii and Nervii were never subdued by Ceasar nor his legions. That would make Belgica a country then by that definition... Ceasar's map says so, btw.
