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Waste of Time? Why do we use BC/AD - and should we keep them?

  • Published In: History Today, 2024, v. 74, n. 8. P. 22 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Lambe, Simon 3 of 3

Abstract

The article tackles the use of the orthodox dating convention of Before Christ (BC) and Anno Domini (AD) and whether to keep this dating system. Topics discussed include the lack of a year zero and origin of the dating system, the use of the AD system by Anglo-Saxon historian Bede to fit the conversion of the English people into a narrative of God's plan, as well as by Charlemagne as it reinforced the centrality of Christ in his empire, and rebranding of BC/AD for a more neutral dating.

Additional Information

  • Source:History Today. 2024/08, Vol. 74, Issue 8, p22
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Mathematics
  • Publication Date:2024
  • ISSN:0018-2753
  • Accession Number:178257861

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