NationStates Jolt Archive


Are there any Americans here who think Hitler is still head of gov in Germany?

Tluiko
28-04-2005, 14:48
Just want to know.
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 14:55
That's just silly. I'm fairly confident they know Hindenburg is the head of government.
Dimmimar
28-04-2005, 14:57
What? I thought that Kaiser William was still in power!
Ankhmet
28-04-2005, 14:57
No, that whippersnapper Frederick!
Legless Pirates
28-04-2005, 14:57
Who's Hitler?
Monkeypimp
28-04-2005, 14:58
Man I miss Kaiser Bill. He had ambition.
Sith Dark Lords
28-04-2005, 14:58
As facetious as this question is, why is there so much anti american sentiments in this forum?

Maybe as an American I should let my bullish sentiments out regarding world politics and cultures.
Men-an-Tol
28-04-2005, 15:00
As facetious as this question is, why is there so much anti american sentiments in this forum?

Maybe as an American I should let my bullish sentiments out regarding world politics and cultures.

It doesn't seem to be "anti-american sentiment" to me (to it does certainly seem to exist), more national stereotypes and genial making fun of :)
Preebles
28-04-2005, 15:01
Yes! I do.

Note: Writer is not American, and the above statement may or may not be true.
Sith Dark Lords
28-04-2005, 15:02
It doesn't seem to be "anti-american sentiment" to me (to it does certainly seem to exist), more national stereotypes and genial making fun of :)

It obviously is since it has an underlying statement that Americans are too ignorant to know that Hitler is no longer in power. Maybe we're too sheltered within our borders?

Regardless, this isn't the first post I've seen and I'm considering either leaving this forum, or becoming the asshole that I normally am until I get banned.
Hammolopolis
28-04-2005, 15:05
Don't be facetious, everyone knows Otto von Bismark is in charge.
Ankhmet
28-04-2005, 15:06
I believe I have made my feelings obvious on this subject.
Kanabia
28-04-2005, 15:06
It's Barbarossa, fools!
Ankhmet
28-04-2005, 15:08
Silly you, isn't Caesar still the occupying leader of Germania?
Men-an-Tol
28-04-2005, 15:11
It obviously is since it has an underlying statement that Americans are too ignorant to know that Hitler is no longer in power. Maybe we're too sheltered within our borders?

Yes, the great double standard. From the European perspective, Americans come over here and ask stupid questions like "Where do I meet the queen?" and we think that all Americans are like that. Yet we see if perfectly OK to say stuff like "Is Manhattan a state?" (not the only stupid thing I've heard in this respect, just the most recent, at a pub quiz on Sunday).

Personally I've always held the assumption that Americans know as much about Europe as Europeans know about America. Though admittedly I've been to Europe, but not America.

Sorry one of my bug bears. Not really anti Americanism, just ignorance of America and an unwillingness to learn about whilst carrying on ripping it (NB: I do rip America sometimes, but I rip everwere sometimes too :))

Regardless, this isn't the first post I've seen and I'm considering either leaving this forum, or becoming the asshole that I normally am until I get banned.

I vote Asshole
Jeruselem
28-04-2005, 15:13
It's Charlemagne, fellas.
Keruvalia
28-04-2005, 15:15
You're all wrong ... it's this guy:

http://www.americangermanclub.org/images/Lederhosen.gif
Preebles
28-04-2005, 15:15
Silly you, isn't Caesar still the occupying leader of Germania?
Pfft. Go back to Germania.
Ankhmet
28-04-2005, 15:17
Pfft. Go back to Germania.

do you mean the occupation is over? Damnit! I was wearing a toga all the time when I went to Germania!
Dimmimar
28-04-2005, 15:18
Imbeciles! It's King Platypus III of Germany!

http://www.epa.qld.gov.au/images/nature_conservation/platypus.jpg
Sith Dark Lords
28-04-2005, 15:20
Yes, the great double standard. From the European perspective, Americans come over here and ask stupid questions like "Where do I meet the queen?" and we think that all Americans are like that. Yet we see if perfectly OK to say stuff like "Is Manhattan a state?" (not the only stupid thing I've heard in this respect, just the most recent, at a pub quiz on Sunday).

Personally I've always held the assumption that Americans know as much about Europe as Europeans know about America. Though admittedly I've been to Europe, but not America.

Sorry one of my bug bears. Not really anti Americanism, just ignorance of America and an unwillingness to learn about whilst carrying on ripping it (NB: I do rip America sometimes, but I rip everwere sometimes too :))

I vote Asshole

What the fuck are you talking about?

There's a clear difference between not knowing, and asking idiotic questions that are meant to insult a certain groups intelligence. Most people outside the U.S. have heard of Manhattan, but they don't know that it's part of a state, which is a completely relevant question.

As for meeting the queen, why would that be an insulting question? Heads of state here meet with touring groups when they visit the White House. The President himself is known to meet with "the locals" and any visiting tourists can see him that are part of that group while he travels making speeches and addresses. Why is it wrong if we ask if there's a possibility of meeting or seeing the Queen in person?


You'll get asshole, don't go crying to the mods.
Ankhmet
28-04-2005, 15:20
I should probably not bother sending my letter to Pope John I.
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 15:21
What? I thought that Kaiser William was still in power!
Imbeciles! It's King Platypus III of Germany!
So, which one is it? Admit it - You have no idea!
Nationalist Valhalla
28-04-2005, 15:21
actually the preserved brain of the great leader is still consulted on matters of national importance. hitlers brain hasn't actually ruled germany since the mid 70s when its embalming fluids became contaminated. he's been a little forgetful and irratic since then. himmler's brain has faired better, but he was always such and prancing little nancy boy, no one really feels like letting him rule germany.
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 15:23
Who is this Manhattan you keep talking about? What has he ever done?
Sith Dark Lords
28-04-2005, 15:25
Who is this Manhattan you keep talking about? What has he ever done?

He's the custodial engineer for the "Umpire state building."

It's where they play baseball
Kanabia
28-04-2005, 15:25
actually the preserved brain of the great leader is still consulted on matters of national importance. hitlers brain hasn't actually ruled germany since the mid 70s when its embalming fluids became contaminated. he's been a little forgetful and irratic since then. himmler's brain has faired better, but he was always such and prancing little nancy boy, no one really feels like letting him rule germany.

No, it's actually used in cocktails at an obscure bar in the USA. One part Jack Daniels, two parts purple kool-aid, and some formaldehyde from the jar Hitlers brain is preserved in. It's called a Tricky Dickie Screwdriver.

(Points to who gets the reference ;))
Ankhmet
28-04-2005, 15:28
I know nought of this 'America' you all speak of so derisively, what is it??? Is it a refreshing drink, or some variety of weather?
Nationalist Valhalla
28-04-2005, 15:28
No, it's actually used in cocktails at an obscure bar in the USA. One part Jack Daniels, two parts purple kool-aid, and some formaldehyde from the jar Hitlers brain is preserved in. It's called a Tricky Dickie Screwdriver.

(Points to who gets the reference ;))
dead kennedies song
Cognative Superios
28-04-2005, 15:53
It's Charlemagne, fellas.


Aw man someone beat me to the punch...

I've heard these questions before and it is more of a comment towards the school systems here.

for our next question;

Who can tell me the capital of Canada?

same type of question, and often inncorectly answered.
Cognative Superios
28-04-2005, 15:59
There's a clear difference between not knowing, and asking idiotic questions that are meant to insult a certain groups intelligence. Most people outside the U.S. have heard of Manhattan, but they don't know that it's part of a state, which is a completely relevant question.

As for meeting the queen, why would that be an insulting question? Heads of state here meet with touring groups when they visit the White House. The President himself is known to meet with "the locals" and any visiting tourists can see him that are part of that group while he travels making speeches and addresses. Why is it wrong if we ask if there's a possibility of meeting or seeing the Queen in person?


You'll get asshole, don't go crying to the mods.


There is a great insult in assuming that you get to meat anyone in this world. Most importantly a head of state/member of royalty. the problem is not the question but the phraseing, When assumes there will be a time and place to meet the person. very insulting to hold everyone to your whims and desires.
Sith Dark Lords
28-04-2005, 16:03
There is a great insult in assuming that you get to meat anyone in this world. Most importantly a head of state/member of royalty. the problem is not the question but the phraseing, When assumes there will be a time and place to meet the person. very insulting to hold everyone to your whims and desires.

Why is it insulting to ask if a certain dignitary is available to meet people? It's not holding them to your "whims," it's simply asking if there's a chance to meet a person that is highly revered.

If you see it as an insult, maybe you're the one with the problem since you see it as an insult and not a simple question. Maybe you should stop being so hyper sensitive, when tourists come here and ask something that is well known here I don't go off on a tirade. I simply answer their question and move on.
Drunk commies reborn
28-04-2005, 16:09
I had heard that in an effort to increase recruiting the US military was planning to bring back popular arch-enemy Adolph Hitler to lead Germany. Was that just an idle rumor?
Monkeypimp
28-04-2005, 16:10
Aw man someone beat me to the punch...

I've heard these questions before and it is more of a comment towards the school systems here.

for our next question;

Who can tell me the capital of Canada?

same type of question, and often inncorectly answered.

Ottawa, innit?
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 16:10
when tourists come here and ask something that is well known here I don't go off on a tirade. I simply answer their question and move on.
You don't?! I more often than not lash at them for wasting my time. I feel it's very anti-Finnish to come here and ask us natives about this and that statue or building. How can you NOT know!?!
Carnivorous Lickers
28-04-2005, 16:11
It obviously is since it has an underlying statement that Americans are too ignorant to know that Hitler is no longer in power. Maybe we're too sheltered within our borders?

Regardless, this isn't the first post I've seen and I'm considering either leaving this forum, or becoming the asshole that I normally am until I get banned.


Dont let it get to you. Take it from where it comes. You're not really upset that squabbling, jealous voices take pot-shots at the US. Its ok. Its an international forum.
So Americans all go to Europe and ask where the queen is and Europeans all come here with bed-head. Who cares?
Krisconsin
28-04-2005, 16:21
So if I were to go to Germany I WOULDN"T be able to meet with Hitler?

Also, the capital of Canada is TORONTO and the capital of Austrailia is SYDNEY. Everybody knows that!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mazalandia
28-04-2005, 16:23
Everyone cops the stereotypes
Unfornuately, due to America's population and large relative power, you meet a greater amount of tourists are idiots that are from America, then idiots from Europe.

For example I'm Australian and my uncle had an arguement with an American about how no Australians fought in Papua New Guinea during WWII. Australia to PNG is probably a similar distance America to Hawaii.

Also due to the land size differences, Americans are not really exposed to different countries. For example LA to New York is propbably about 3,500 kms, or 2,200 miles. Thats probably Paris to Moscow via Berlin, and through at least four or five countries (France, Germany and Russia, possibly Belgium, Switzerland etc. )
By the way it's the German chancellor is Schroedinger (probably spelled wrong), and I think that Ottawa is the capital
Krisconsin
28-04-2005, 16:24
You don't?! I more often than not lash at them for wasting my time. I feel it's very anti-Finnish to come here and ask us natives about this and that statue or building. How can you NOT know!?!


Don't they know that TIME IS MONEY?!
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 16:25
By the way it's the German chancellor is Schroedinger (probably spelled wrong), and I think that Ottawa is the capital
No, the capital is Berlin.
Haken Rider
28-04-2005, 16:26
No, the capital is Berlin.
no, Alaska.
Mazalandia
28-04-2005, 16:29
So if I were to go to Germany I WOULDN"T be able to meet with Hitler?

Also, the capital of Canada is TORONTO and the capital of Austrailia is SYDNEY. Everybody knows that!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

and the capital of america is New York!!!!!!!!! :)
Mazalandia
28-04-2005, 16:31
No, the capital is Berlin.

I was refering to the canadian capital but that was not very clear
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 16:31
I was refering to the canadian capital but that was not very clear
So you say NOW...
Swimmingpool
28-04-2005, 16:34
It obviously is since it has an underlying statement that Americans are too ignorant to know that Hitler is no longer in power. Maybe we're too sheltered within our borders?

Regardless, this isn't the first post I've seen and I'm considering either leaving this forum, or becoming the asshole that I normally am until I get banned.
Stay calm. While I wouldn't go as far as to call most Americans "ignorant" it's pretty much a fact that they know less about the world outside their borders than the people of most other countries know.
Carnivorous Lickers
28-04-2005, 16:35
and the capital of america is New York!!!!!!!!! :)


No- New York is the capitol of the world, not America.
Frangland
28-04-2005, 16:38
Isn't it Otto I?

Who was the one who stood outside barefoot in the snow for days so Pope Gregory would repeal his excommunication?
Carnivorous Lickers
28-04-2005, 16:38
Stay calm. While I wouldn't go as far as to call most Americans "ignorant" it's pretty much a fact that they know less about the world outside their borders than the people of most other countries know.


Thanks for not calling us all ignorant. I think it may be a fact amongst those you have experience with that they know far less about the world outside their borders.
Aronian States
28-04-2005, 16:42
Its kind of sad. The only smart Americans are from rural areas, because they don't waste as much time on pop culture.
Bellania
28-04-2005, 16:49
Stay calm. While I wouldn't go as far as to call most Americans "ignorant" it's pretty much a fact that they know less about the world outside their borders than the people of most other countries know.

Wait, there's other countries out there besides the good ol' US of A? You're blowing my mind!

I think it's more a factor of us Americans not caring all that much. I mean, when's the last time France really did anything all that noticeable on the world stage? I mean, they're a nice proponent of the EU, but they've really been holding back its enlargement. Those darn Gaullists. At least they finally agreed to phase out nuclear power plants. Better than us, since Bush wants to put more in. Friggin' moron.

At least you're part of a nation that has attempted to mediate conflicts rather than instigate. I mean, wasn't the Republic of Ireland a key neutral ingrediant to the IRA turning in their armaments? I heard that had reached a stumbling block or two. Good luck with that.

Not all Americans are totally apathetic about the world. We've got to know you to bomb you, right?
Jordaxia
28-04-2005, 16:49
The capital of Canada is "C", patently.
Umlilo
28-04-2005, 16:56
Its kind of sad. The only smart Americans are from rural areas, because they don't waste as much time on pop culture.

:eek: That is the most ignorant, broad-based comment I have ever heard in these forums.......
Non-Theocrats
28-04-2005, 16:57
actually the preserved brain of the great leader is still consulted on matters of national importance. hitlers brain hasn't actually ruled germany since the mid 70s when its embalming fluids became contaminated. he's been a little forgetful and irratic since then. himmler's brain has faired better, but he was always such and prancing little nancy boy, no one really feels like letting him rule germany.


Sure...Everyone is always in favor of saving Hitler's brain...but try putting it into the body of a great white shark and suddenly everyone gets in a huff!!!
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 16:58
:eek: That is the most ignorant, broad-based comment I have ever heard in these forums.......
Give it more time.
Diws
28-04-2005, 17:01
I challenge any Eurpopean to beat my score at this:

http://www.rtl.de/news/games/europa_dart/

it is a dart game in which you locate European capitals.

I got 2200, which is really not that great (the lower, the better; it is the # of kilometers you miss all the accumulated capitals by). Moscow accounts for almost 1/3 of it.. ouch.

Doubtless some will beat me, but I guarantee it will only be a minority. & I wish it asked the locations of the Baltics' capitals Vilnius, riga and talinn, and perhaps Moldava's...
Sith Dark Lords
28-04-2005, 17:03
Stay calm. While I wouldn't go as far as to call most Americans "ignorant" it's pretty much a fact that they know less about the world outside their borders than the people of most other countries know.

Have you ever been to America? If you have you should know how large it is. It's difficult enough to keep up with issues from one state to another and you people have the audacity to question one's ability because most of us don't have enough time to pay attention to other countries and cultures?

By the way, about half of our news revolve around you Europeans and Middle Easterners bitching about how awful and ignorant the U.S. is while we give as much support as possible to the rest of the world.

Just try traveling from Maine to Florida and you'll see how vast it is, and all of the differences from one state to another.
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 17:09
I challenge any Eurpopean to beat my score at this:

http://www.rtl.de/news/games/europa_dart/

it is a dart game in which you locate European capitals.

I'd try this instead: http://www.geosense.net/

It may be due to my computer, but that darts thing was just frustrating to move.
Damnuall
28-04-2005, 17:20
Who's Hitler?

Don't you know, Hitler is a talk show host! I love his show!
Frangland
28-04-2005, 17:30
So if I were to go to Germany I WOULDN"T be able to meet with Hitler?

Also, the capital of Canada is TORONTO and the capital of Austrailia is SYDNEY. Everybody knows that!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

U GOT IT!

Selected World Capitals:

Germany - Munich
France - Lyon
Republic of Ireland - Belfast
Italy - Naples
China - Shanghai
India - Bombay
Japan - Osaka
Russia - St. Petersburg
Egypt - Alexandria
South Africa - Cape Town
Brazil - Rio de Janeiro
USA - Chicago
Israel - Tel Aviv
Holland - Rotterdam
Spain - Barthelona (hehe... c = th)
Portugal - Porto
Venezuela - Maracaibo
Colombia - Medellin (sp?)
North Korea - Seoul
South Korea - Pyongyang
Australia - Alice Springs
Turkey - Istanbul
New British Glory
28-04-2005, 17:40
Actually a poll was conducted about a year ago in see how many school children knew who Hitler was.

I think the result was that about 50% had not a clue.
Swimmingpool
28-04-2005, 17:43
Thanks for not calling us all ignorant. I think it may be a fact amongst those you have experience with that they know far less about the world outside their borders.
Not at all. In a famous recent survey of American high-school leavers, 41% couldn't name a country in Asia, 85% couldn't find Iraq on a world map and 11% couldn't even find the USA on a world map. I doubt that most Americans would be able to name 5 foreign heads of state off-the-cuff.

Also, isn't it true that only ~10% of Americans know a language other than English or Spanish? And that just 15% have a passport?

Wait, there's other countries out there besides the good ol' US of A? You're blowing my mind!

I think it's more a factor of us Americans not caring all that much.
Indeed, you don't care and thus you don't know. The American lack of knowledge is not surprising at all. You have little reason to know. Most of the interesting stuff to you happens in your own country.

Yeah and I agree about France being troublesome and arrogant. Still gotta love 'em though!

Have you ever been to America? If you have you should know how large it is. It's difficult enough to keep up with issues from one state to another and you people have the audacity to question one's ability because most of us don't have enough time to pay attention to other countries and cultures?
Dude you need to calm down! I was in no way trashing America or flaming Americans! I understand why it is that you people are not so knowledgeable about events beyond the USA. I know how large it is. I don't begrudge you for it. Keep America the beautiful!


Spain - Barthelona (hehe... c = th)

no, it's spelled Barfelonia!
Frangland
28-04-2005, 17:49
I'd try this instead: http://www.geosense.net/

It may be due to my computer, but that darts thing was just frustrating to move.

third try was a charm (i think):

Average km off: 111.2
Markreich
28-04-2005, 17:52
Are there any Americans here who think Hitler is still head of gov in Germany?

Just want to know.

The better question would be are there any Germans on NS that aren't whiny anti-Americanists? :D
Clint the mercyful
28-04-2005, 17:55
why would anyone not want to love america ?

its so kewl.....
Isonom
28-04-2005, 18:05
the points about america's size, population, and the fact that we should know more about our own country before exploring the rest of the world hold water.

i've personally driven from Washington state to Florida...i've lived in Texas, New Mexico, Washington, Florida, now in Mississippi, and soon moving to California. Each state has its own laws, its own things to know and understand. Many people feel they should explore their own country before going to another one. Europeans don't have far to go to explore their own country..for the most part..so it's a bit easier.

In the United States, most people do NOT speak any language besides english. that is a fact. and most people expect anyone who comes here, to know our language. how arrogant is that? even as an american who doesn't speak any other language (well except a smidge of spanish) i see how arrogant that is. fact is, we don't even have a national language, though we really ought to establish English as such.

but, to call americans ignorant because they don't know the nuances of your country is absurd. until you can tell me every tidbit of trivia about america, don't expect me to know as much about your country, k?
Markreich
28-04-2005, 18:13
Not at all. In a famous recent survey of American high-school leavers, 41% couldn't name a country in Asia, 85% couldn't find Iraq on a world map and 11% couldn't even find the USA on a world map. I doubt that most Americans would be able to name 5 foreign heads of state off-the-cuff.

How did that compare to people whom dropped out of high school in other nations? Can 59% of them name a mid western US state?

Re: 5 foreign heads of state: Pretty silly question really. How many Euros can name 5 American Governors? Yet every one of those states is big enough to be a European country.

Also, isn't it true that only ~10% of Americans know a language other than English or Spanish? And that just 15% have a passport?

Here's the language percentages: http://www.census.gov/prod/2003pubs/c2kbr-29.pdf
So, yes. And... so what? I happen to speak Polish and Slovak. Does that make me a better American? Hardly. If the number of US Walloon speakers is low, it's for a reason. ;)

(Yes, I also have a passport.)
Eutrusca
28-04-2005, 18:15
"Are there any Americans here who think Hitler is still head of gov in Germany?"

Of course! How else do you explain that they never found his body, and the rise of "Neo-Nazism" in modern Germany? :)
Jordaxia
28-04-2005, 18:16
Re: 5 foreign heads of state: Pretty silly question really. How many Euros can name 5 American Governors? Yet every one of those states is big enough to be a European country.


slight aside, but... they may have be physically bigger, but I think population wise an individual state is likely to be far smaller than a European country, which is slightly more important. Also, they don't decide foreign policy.
Men-an-Tol
28-04-2005, 18:17
What the fuck are you talking about?

There's a clear difference between not knowing, and asking idiotic questions that are meant to insult a certain groups intelligence. Most people outside the U.S. have heard of Manhattan, but they don't know that it's part of a state, which is a completely relevant question.

As for meeting the queen, why would that be an insulting question? Heads of state here meet with touring groups when they visit the White House. The President himself is known to meet with "the locals" and any visiting tourists can see him that are part of that group while he travels making speeches and addresses. Why is it wrong if we ask if there's a possibility of meeting or seeing the Queen in person?

Soory began ranting.

My point was, some people ridicule Americans due to American tourists' questions, yet get annoyed if they get ridiculed for saying something equally stupid.

You'll get asshole, don't go crying to the mods.

Don't worry. I won't. I don't care if someone I don't know insults me :)
Diws
28-04-2005, 18:25
Wow, really enjoyed GeoSense. Got a couple of comments that I was 'really good for an American'. Ouch. :) But did pretty well, though 1 guy handed my head to me. the 'advanced' quiz is very challenging. No one, I noticed, wanted to try the 'US geography' quiz. The Russia ones, and a lot of the Spanish ones, are hard, too.
General of general
28-04-2005, 18:28
slight aside, but... they may have be physically bigger, but I think population wise an individual state is likely to be far smaller than a European country, which is slightly more important. Also, they don't decide foreign policy.

Please don't encourage americans to travel. ;)
Sith Dark Lords
28-04-2005, 18:29
Soory began ranting.

My point was, some people ridicule Americans due to American tourists' questions, yet get annoyed if they get ridiculed for saying something equally stupid.



Don't worry. I won't. I don't care if someone I don't know insults me :)

Why should you get annoyed if they're asking you a simple question that they have not been educated on?

Maybe you Europeans are too snobbish and stuck up to have any sort of compassion to strangers.
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 18:29
Wow, really enjoyed GeoSense. Got a couple of comments that I was 'really good for an American'. Ouch. :) But did pretty well, though 1 guy handed my head to me. the 'advanced' quiz is very challenging. No one, I noticed, wanted to try the 'US geography' quiz. The Russia ones, and a lot of the Spanish ones, are hard, too.
As a former 'top tenner' I'm glad you liked it. But it's all about practicing really. After 20 times most of the places are in muscle memory. :)
Swimmingpool
28-04-2005, 18:37
How did that compare to people whom dropped out of high school in other nations? Can 59% of them name a mid western US state?

Re: 5 foreign heads of state: Pretty silly question really. How many Euros can name 5 American Governors? Yet every one of those states is big enough to be a European country.

Here's the language percentages: http://www.census.gov/prod/2003pubs/c2kbr-29.pdf
So, yes. And... so what? I happen to speak Polish and Slovak. Does that make me a better American? Hardly. If the number of US Walloon speakers is low, it's for a reason. ;)

(Yes, I also have a passport.)
I don't mean dropouts, I mean people who have just graduated. People shouldn't be expected to know about states because they are not independent countries.

I never said anything about being better. Why are you so hostile? I've made it perfectly clear that relative American ignorance of the outside world is completely understandable.
Fiat Lux Colleges
28-04-2005, 18:38
I think much of the problem stems from our poor (here in CA at least) public education system. Looking at the most recent STAR (a standardized test in certain subjects for certain high school grades) exam results is almost depressing.

http://star.cde.ca.gov/star2003/viewreport.asp
Men-an-Tol
28-04-2005, 18:41
Why should you get annoyed if they're asking you a simple question that they have not been educated on?

Its not the fact the are asking a simple question. I ask questions. Its the fact they take the piss out of other people (in this case Americans) asking questions.
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 18:46
Its not the fact the are asking a simple question. I ask questions. Its the fact they take the piss out of other people (in this case Americans) asking questions.
Well, rest assured, the intentions is good. The Europeans in general, and the French/Germans in particular, think there's too much piss in you USians. They just think taking the piss out of you is helpful...
Markreich
28-04-2005, 18:48
slight aside, but... they may have be physically bigger, but I think population wise an individual state is likely to be far smaller than a European country, which is slightly more important. Also, they don't decide foreign policy.

Um... no, not really. (I assume we're not counting Russia or Turkey.)
It's true that Germany, France, the UK and Italy are all large countries by population. Yet the #5 nation is Spain at 40 million.

http://www.answers.com/topic/area-and-population-of-european-countries

California has 33 million. Texas has 20 million, New York has 19 million.
...the smallest US state by population is Wyoming at 506,529. That is about the same size as Luxembourg. Holland has a million people less than Florida.

http://www.factmonster.com/ipka/A0004986.html

"Foreign Policy" within Europe is the same as Intrastate policy between US governors. There was a big fight recently between New York trying to tax Connecticut commuters that work in NYC. Never mind water rights in the south west, highway repair, etc...
Markreich
28-04-2005, 18:54
I don't mean dropouts, I mean people who have just graduated. People shouldn't be expected to know about states because they are not independent countries.

I never said anything about being better. Why are you so hostile? I've made it perfectly clear that relative American ignorance of the outside world is completely understandable.

Ah! Sorry about that confusion.

To say that an American should know about Slovakia while a European doesn't need to know about Connecticut is hubris, plain and simple.

Reread my prior post. I'm not being hostile. :)
Sith Dark Lords
28-04-2005, 18:58
Its not the fact the are asking a simple question. I ask questions. Its the fact they take the piss out of other people (in this case Americans) asking questions.

Maybe you shouldn't be so pompous and quick to anger over simple questions.

I can see why comedians here make so much fun of Europeans. It's almost as if Europeans are angry at the U.S. for just being nice.
Sdaeriji
28-04-2005, 18:59
I'd try this instead: http://www.geosense.net/

It may be due to my computer, but that darts thing was just frustrating to move.

That game is very hard to be accurate with, especially when you're trying to pinpoint cities in smaller nations that you can hardly see. I had the damnedest time trying to see Jordan well enough to select Amman. Stupid small map.
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 19:02
It's almost as if Europeans are angry at the U.S. for just being nice.
Cookie! This person deserves a cookie! Damn, I'm all out, but have this instead: http://jira.atlassian.com/secure/attachment/12152/Gold_Star.gif
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 19:04
Stupid small map. I'd say the reason is: You're a stupid stingy person not buying that 32" monitor when they were on sale.
Carnivorous Lickers
28-04-2005, 19:04
Its good to be worldly and well travelled. Its good to have a knowledge and interest in other countries and cultures-especially those of your ancestry.
Unfortunately, travelling abroad can be costly and complex. Instead of being educational, its more a luxury.
I think there may be a greater focus on education/skills that apply to a job/career. A person needs to know a trade so they can sustain themselves. Travelling to Europe or Africa or Asia may come down the line after a level of comfort/stability is achieved. Learning a lanquage other than English? In the US, Spanish is becoming a necessity if you are in business. Learning a lanquage other than that would be a luxury, unless it applied directly to a job.
I took Spanish & French in high school and have had very little use for either. I would have been much better off if a course on being an electrician or auto mechanic was offered. My parents had to take Latin in school. I'm sure that time could have been better spent.
So-dont generalize the US with ignorance. More necessity. My wife and I have passports,as do all of our children. We are well travelled-a lot of that was a benefit of a relative in the airline industry. We have been all over the US-including Hawaii AND Alaska-including a trip into the arctic circle for an hour, just to say we were there.
Sdaeriji
28-04-2005, 19:06
I'd say the reason is: You're a stupid stingy person not buying that 32" monitor when they were in sale.

Hey! I have a 20" plasma screen monitor! It's the map! Manama, Bahrain! What the hell? You can't even SEE Bahrain on that map!

Out of curiousity, what's a good score?

edit: Ever have the game fuck up horribly? It just told me that Lima, Peru was in northern Morocco.
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 19:08
My parents had to take Latin in school. I'm sure that time could have been better spent.
Hey! It comes handy if you travel to Latin America.
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 19:10
Out of curiousity, what's a good score?
I really wouldn't know. I haven't visited the site in a year. In European capitals it was less than 7 km off to become top 10 then. Can't remember what it was for the world map. I have to admit - cos the thread insists - that I SUCK what comes to the USA map.
--Neo-America--
28-04-2005, 19:10
Uhh, why would we think that?
Constitutionals
28-04-2005, 19:12
Just want to know.


No. That's so stupid it's unbelivible.
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 19:15
No. That's so stupid it's unbelivible.
It only took you 6 pages to realize that?
Sdaeriji
28-04-2005, 19:16
I really wouldn't know. I haven't visited the site in a year. In European capitals it was less than 7 km off to become top 10 then. Can't remember what it was for the world map. I have to admit - cos the thread insists - that I SUCK what comes to the USA map.

Wow, I didn't even notice there was more than just the world map. The only two cities I was able to get down to 0 km were Lisbon, Portugal and Vladivostok, Russia. I averaged a little over 5100 points per game.
AnailizeR
28-04-2005, 19:20
would be nice if he was though ... now he was an ambixious little F-er was he not?
Isanyonehome
28-04-2005, 19:33
Just want to know.

If I say yes, does that mean I can bang French chicks while the Brits firebomb your cities...again.
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 19:36
If I say yes, does that mean I can bang French chicks while the Brits firebomb your cities...again.
That was hilarious!
Isanyonehome
28-04-2005, 19:40
He's the custodial engineer for the "Umpire state building."

It's where they play baseball

That would be Boston, different place altogether. There is no longer any baseball in NY.
New Genoa
28-04-2005, 19:41
jesus?
Frangland
28-04-2005, 19:43
I'd try this instead: http://www.geosense.net/

It may be due to my computer, but that darts thing was just frustrating to move.

Beat this World score without cheating:

Average km off: 188
Average time: 3.3
Isanyonehome
28-04-2005, 19:43
Aw man someone beat me to the punch...

I've heard these questions before and it is more of a comment towards the school systems here.

for our next question;

Who can tell me the capital of Canada?

same type of question, and often inncorectly answered.

Ottawa...oops sorry, meant Totonto.

BTW: Where the hell is ottawa?
Isanyonehome
28-04-2005, 19:45
I had heard that in an effort to increase recruiting the US military was planning to bring back popular arch-enemy Adolph Hitler to lead Germany. Was that just an idle rumor?

I thought it was going to be the red skull guy from the shield comics
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 19:46
Beat this World score without cheating:

Average km off: 188
Average time: 3.3
I believe I already have. :)
But as I said... Muscle memory. Spend a month playing in that site among the geeky mappers... and you will do it less than 90 km off and in 2 seconds. :) yuck!
Bastard-Squad
28-04-2005, 19:47
Don't be silly.

Germany is obviously far too evil, what with not bending to American will and all, to be run by someone like Hitler.
Isanyonehome
28-04-2005, 20:08
That was hilarious!

Thank You.

I used to love going to Germany when I was a kid too. These days I wont even fly Luftanasa because of the overt racism.
Pepe Dominguez
28-04-2005, 20:10
Pfft. "Hitler."

Greatest leader of a German-speaking nation, ever = Klemens Lothar Wenzel Von Metternich. Hitler couldn't hold a candle to ol' Klem.
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 20:14
These days I wont even fly Luftanasa because of the overt racism.
That's just why I found it hilarious. Keep it going man! And pass it down to your kids, why don't you! yeah!
Markreich
28-04-2005, 20:17
Beat this World score without cheating:

Average km off: 188
Average time: 3.3

For my first attempt:
Score: 4748
Average km off: 328
Average time: 2.5

...not bad "for an American", eh? ;)
West Pacific
28-04-2005, 20:21
Just want to know.

No, he died back in '82 so his three sons have set up a council to jointly rule the Third Reich. We do actually know some history in America.
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 20:25
...not bad "for an American", eh? ;)
Very well done. And one has to remember; it's all about accuracy AND time. You get no cigar if you get all down to zero km and spend 9 seconds pondering...
Swimmingpool
28-04-2005, 20:25
To say that an American should know about Slovakia while a European doesn't need to know about Connecticut is hubris, plain and simple.

Why?

Slovakia population: 5,379,455
Connecticut population: 3,405,565

I don't think that Americans "should" know about Slovakia, or anything for that matter. I never said that.
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 20:28
Oh! right! We go around belittling Slovakia now!
*goes around shouting profanities*
That just won't do!

... but what about the fair people of Connecticut... well, shove 'em, i'm European!
Swimmingpool
28-04-2005, 20:31
Its good to be worldly and well travelled. Its good to have a knowledge and interest in other countries and cultures-especially those of your ancestry.
Unfortunately, travelling abroad can be costly and complex. Instead of being educational, its more a luxury.
It's not about travelling so much as it is about the media. In America the media just doesn't really talk about foreign events unless they directly relate to America (i.e. Iraq).

jesus?
You called?
Wisjersey
28-04-2005, 20:32
Grrrmany... interesting country. Also, on the list of rogue states.

I think the US will soon declare war on Germany to punish the country for their pacifist tendencies lately... i mean, their cowardice. They will then replace the current government with a dictator which they will borrow from the Middle East which will then prepare the country for war. A few years later, Germany will once again wage war across Europe and the rest of the world and trigger WWIII. Oh, and US will again come over and safe the day.

Seriously you folks, which country except Germany has the license to start WWIII? I mean, which country can say "hey, we already started two world wars..." :D
Markreich
28-04-2005, 20:35
Oh! right! We go around belittling Slovakia now!
*goes around shouting profanities*
That just won't do!

... but what about the fair people of Connecticut... well, shove 'em, i'm European!

I'm a Slovak ex-pat that lives in Connecticut. :D
Markreich
28-04-2005, 20:37
Very well done. And one has to remember; it's all about accuracy AND time. You get no cigar if you get all down to zero km and spend 9 seconds pondering...

Thanks. I'm sure I'd do better with a mouse instead of this touchpad on my laptop... :)
Markreich
28-04-2005, 20:39
Why?

Slovakia population: 5,379,455
Connecticut population: 3,405,565

I don't think that Americans "should" know about Slovakia, or anything for that matter. I never said that.

Sorry, I just didn't want to compare Connecticut to Bosnia... ;)

:confused: So what's all this about, then?
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 20:45
I'm a Slovak ex-pat that lives in Connecticut. :D
Well, against all odds, I have to strike some sense into you. I'm afraid you won't like this, but I don't exactly love this either...
Sith Dark Lords
28-04-2005, 20:51
[QUOTE=Swimmingpool]It's not about travelling so much as it is about the media. In America the media just doesn't really talk about foreign events unless they directly relate to America (i.e. Iraq).QUOTE]

How long have you been living in the U.S. to make this assumption? Kosovo, Haiti, IRA bombings, Spanish ETA bombings, Chechen attacks, the differences in math education between male and female students in Iceland, child prostitution in Latin America, food crisis in Africa etc.were never directly related to the U.S., but were still in the news.

So how is it that the foreign news we get is only news that directly relate to us?
Isanyonehome
28-04-2005, 21:04
Grrrmany... interesting country. Also, on the list of rogue states.

I think the US will soon declare war on Germany to punish the country for their pacifist tendencies lately... i mean, their cowardice. They will then replace the current government with a dictator which they will borrow from the Middle East which will then prepare the country for war. A few years later, Germany will once again wage war across Europe and the rest of the world and trigger WWIII. Oh, and US will again come over and safe the day.

Seriously you folks, which country except Germany has the license to start WWIII? I mean, which country can say "hey, we already started two world wars..." :D

Please, no more wars from Germany. The US national debt is bad enough already, we couldnt afford to rebuild Europe once again....
Wisjersey
28-04-2005, 21:21
Please, no more wars from Germany. The US national debt is bad enough already, we couldnt afford to rebuild Europe once again....

No, i was just kidding. I don't think Germany will start any war again. They've lost their grace. :p
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 21:22
Grrrmany... interesting country. Also, on the list of rogue states.

I think the US will soon declare war on Germany to punish the country for their pacifist tendencies lately... i mean, their cowardice. They will then replace the current government with a dictator which they will borrow from the Middle East which will then prepare the country for war. A few years later, Germany will once again wage war across Europe and the rest of the world and trigger WWIII. Oh, and US will again come over and safe the day.

Seriously you folks, which country except Germany has the license to start WWIII? I mean, which country can say "hey, we already started two world wars..." :D
Hey! Leave him be. You can't seriously say that isn't cute!
There it is, once again...
Wisjersey
28-04-2005, 21:30
Hey! Leave him be. You can't seriously say that isn't cute!
There it is, once again...

Huh, what do you mean? :confused:
Sanctaphrax
28-04-2005, 21:47
"Are there any Americans here who think Hitler is still head of gov in Germany?"


Nah, he moved to France recently, he took power there as well!
EmoBuddy v2point0
28-04-2005, 22:03
No it's this guy (http://jpez.freeservers.com/downloads/misc/King%20Knublet.jpg) .
Bunnyducks
28-04-2005, 22:21
Hey! Leave him be. You can't seriously say that isn't cute!
There it is, once again...


Huh, what do you mean? :confused:
I wrote that?!? I can't be arsed to find out what I was talking about. Especially not in a thread like this. Just add your own connotation. It's ok for me.
Vaitupu
28-04-2005, 23:28
I thought it was Margaret Thatcher
Old Norse
29-04-2005, 02:44
Is Hitler still the leader of Germany? You bet your ass he is! Only it's not Adoff Hitler, it's his son, Bubba Jay Hitler.
Reticuli
29-04-2005, 02:47
In a nutshell, you're claiming that Germany is still just a bunch of Nazis? That's a ridiculous claim.
Turkishsquirrel
29-04-2005, 02:57
Hitler is dead and good riddance. I'd kill him. The guy was a racist idiot.
Reticuli
29-04-2005, 03:14
Well that's to be expected. Only people that are like Hitler like Hitler.
Von Witzleben
29-04-2005, 03:18
Are there any Americans here who think Hitler is still head of gov in Germany?
Prescott Bush did some good business with him. During one secret meeting between them Hitler seduced Prescotts wife and inpregnated her. His grandson is currently president.
Cognative Superios
29-04-2005, 15:37
Why is it insulting to ask if a certain dignitary is available to meet people? It's not holding them to your "whims," it's simply asking if there's a chance to meet a person that is highly revered.

If you see it as an insult, maybe you're the one with the problem since you see it as an insult and not a simple question. Maybe you should stop being so hyper sensitive, when tourists come here and ask something that is well known here I don't go off on a tirade. I simply answer their question and move on.


There is a big difference between the way that tourists ask if a dignitary is a vailible to talk to the public in the US as compared to Europe; in the us it is a polite question asked of someone in charge of the facility who may be able to give an answer. In europe its an expectation: "so when should I scedual him/her to meet with me?"
[NS]Janesia
29-04-2005, 15:47
american here; knows hitler's dead:: wants to make fun of the british... doesn't::: waiting to be attacked personally:: have a nice day
Markreich
29-04-2005, 16:06
Prescott Bush did some good business with him. During one secret meeting between them Hitler seduced Prescotts wife and inpregnated her. His grandson is currently president.

This post further proves that all of the intelligent Germans had emigrated out of Germany before 1914. And that times haven't changed.
Whispering Legs
29-04-2005, 16:22
This post further proves that all of the intelligent Germans had emigrated out of Germany before 1914. And that times haven't changed.
Well, they haven't really changed their national anthem, either. Just edited some of the verses.
Cognative Superios
29-04-2005, 16:22
I'd say the reason is: You're a stupid stingy person not buying that 32" monitor when they were on sale.


What a great educational tool, thanks to all who suggested it. so much fun playing this game on a 4'x5' smart board!!!
Karas
29-04-2005, 17:59
Hitler isn't in control of Germany. Hitler's perserved severed head currently commands the Arctic Nazis. The Artic Nazis have only very loose ties to the German government and any efforts they might make to create a Fourth Reich are ultimatly stymied by the efforts of the Illuminati - New World Order which controls the entire European Union.
Big Scoob
29-04-2005, 18:14
Prescott Bush did some good business with him. During one secret meeting between them Hitler seduced Prescotts wife and inpregnated her. His grandson is currently president.

Not sure that any Americans think Hitler is still in charge of Germany but I bet quite a few think you're either delusional or on drugs...Maybe both?
Jaria
29-04-2005, 18:28
canada has a capital? you sure they arent just a province of the US? :fluffle: :eek:
Cognative Superios
29-04-2005, 18:39
canada has a capital? you sure they arent just a province of the US? :fluffle: :eek:


Hmmmm don't us states have capitals?????
Paradiesonearth
29-04-2005, 18:49
the smallest US state by population is Wyoming at 506,529. That is about the same size as Luxembourg.


Omg, you know Luxembourg? I can't believe it! :) And no, I'm not being rhetorical.. Most people don't know our little country, so I'm always glad to see someone who does... ;)
Not even our neighbours seem to know us...I once met a german who was surprised to hear that Luxembourg doesn't belong to Germany...
But I'm definitely not going to say anything about people being unable to locate certain countries on a map, because I can't locate any country (expect for the big ones, of course) outside western europe... I've always been extremly bad at geography... :(
Frisbeeteria
29-04-2005, 19:17
You'll get asshole, don't go crying to the mods.
We don't need to be alerted to quash statements like this. Sometimes we just runs across 'em on our own.

Nobody has the right to grant you permission to flame on these forums. You'll abide by the rules or get swatted, same as everyone else.

~ Frisbeeteria ~
NationStates Forum Moderator
Markreich
30-04-2005, 12:56
Omg, you know Luxembourg? I can't believe it! :) And no, I'm not being rhetorical.. Most people don't know our little country, so I'm always to see someone who does... ;)
Not even our neighbours seem to know us...I once met a german who was surprised to hear to Luxembourg doesn't belong to Germany...
But I'm definitely not going to say anything about people being unable to locate certain countries on a map, because I can't locate any country (expect for the big ones, of course) outside western europe... I've always been extremly bad at geography... :(

None of it, my Grand Ducal friend. I've *been* to Luxembourg. :) Flew in on Icelandic Air in 1994, took a train out to Nuremburg. LOOOONG ride. Never do that again! (But the tickets were insanely cheap, and when in college...) You guys had a have some cool stuff to see, but monstrous VAT taxes... ;)

In Europe, I've been to Iceland, England, Belgium, Holland, Luxembourg, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Poland & the Czech Republic.

I've also been to every American state on the east coast (13 of 14 states... missing Maine), plus Texas, California, Arizona, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Kentucky, Indiana and Vermont.
I've also been to Labrador, Quebec, and Ontario (Canada).

Next, I'm trying to get to Belize, (eastern) Australia/New Zealand, and Japan. I'd love to do Morocco, but it's not a great time for Americans to visit Arabic nations. :(
Harlesburg
30-04-2005, 13:08
Charlmagne is Leader of Germany!