Book : The Real Dutch Courage

During the Anglo-Dutch war of 1665-1667 the English sailors often remarked upon how brave their clog-wearing foes were in the heat of battle. The Dutch seemed to have complete disregard for their own safety, as was evident by their exclusive use of bicycles in a war fought entirely at sea. One man remarked that the Dutch must've been drunk, and it is from this incident the term "Dutch Courage" originates. Taking a drink before a stressful situation in order to stiffen one's resolve has long been referred to by this term, but <span class="italic">The Real Dutch Courage</span> seeks to obliterate this myth and reveal the true source of the Dutch sailors' bravery - the humble wasp. Each Dutchman took to battle a tiny wooden windmill filled with wasps affixed to their inner thigh as a method of encouragement, and the story of how this tradition came to pass truly is a tale for the ages.