Today in History, December 21: 1945 –
“For over a thousand years, Roman conquerors returning from the wars enjoyed the honor of a triumph – a tumultuous parade. In the procession came trumpeters and musicians and strange animals from the conquered territories, together with carts laden with treasure and captured armaments. The conqueror rode in a triumphal chariot, the dazed prisoners walking in chains before him. Sometimes his children, robed in white, stood with him in the chariot, or rode the trace horses. A SLAVE STOOD BEHIND THE CONQUEROR, HOLDING A GOLDEN CROWN, AND WHISPERING IN HIS EAR A WARNING: THAT ALL GLORY IS REDEEMED.” Closing lines of the movie “Patton”.
On this day in 1945 Gen. George S. Patton dies of injuries sustained in an automobile accident in Germany. Patton was a brilliant tactician and leader, but often a contentious figure. It probably WAS just an accident, but speculation continues about whether it really was an accident, or whether Patton’s comments about America’s response, or lack thereof, to Communist aggression after WWII led to his demise.
I would like to think the consummate warrior had served his purpose was called home.
Mark Loves History! 