The Crumpet Kids Head to the Gallery

KING HENRY VIII 1491-1547 (By Kimi Bath)

This past weekend it was absolutely beautiful weather and I rented a bike and rode off to the National Portrait Gallery to take a look at all the beautiful people displayed in this gallery. One of the older figures on the second level I was most interested in looking at was Henry the VIII because of the stories about his six wives. I took a tour with my family last weekend and our tour guide explained how after all six of his wives, Henry VIII came to be so fat and gross that he straight up become an eyesore to everyone. I wouldn’t necessarily say I admire the guy, but I do admire is persistency to find a woman that didn’t have something wrong with her. If you don’t know about the story of Henry VIII and his six wives, here’s a little summary.

Basically, Henry VIII son of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York, needed a son to take over the throne after him and so he tried and tried with all of his wives but all but one of them were successful. By the end of his life, like I said earlier, he became so gross to look at and be around that one of his wives refused to sleep with him.

Wife #1: Catherine of Aragon

Several miscarriages

Had a son who died 52 days later

Henry tried to annul their marriage after falling in love with Anne Boyle and the Pope refused but Henry threw a fit and made a brand new church (explained below).

Wife #2: Anne Boleyn

Gave birth to a girl ~not okay~

Had several miscarriages following her

Beheaded for treason in the Tower of London

Wife #3: Jane Seymour

Finally gave Henry VIII a son who later became King Edward VI

Died two weeks after giving birth

Wife #4: Anne of Cleves

Didn’t shag the King

DIVORCE

Wife #5: Catherine Howard

No kids

Beheaded for treason

Wife #6: Catherine Parr

Lucky because Henry VIII died during their marriage

She cried about it for 2 seconds and then moved on

Ultimately, Henry VIII is significantly known to be responsible for the creating the Church of England and shifting England’s religious affiliation from Catholicism to Protestant. He did this when the Pope refused to annul his first marriage. But, because he was king and could do what he want, he threw a temper tantrum and just said f-it and created a new church.

Henry's other wife, Kimi

QUEEN MARY I 1516-1558 (By Cady Cohen)

Queen Mary I, also known as Mary Tudor, was the first child of Henry VIII with his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. After her younger half-brother Edward VI died after succeeding Henry VII, Mary was supposed to be in line to take the throne. Instead what happened was Edward VI nominated Lady Jane Grey instead due to her devout Protestant values and Edward VI assumed Mary would reverse his religious reform. When Mary was not awarded the throne, she created a force that despised Jane, and she ended up beheading Lady Jane Grey. Mary became Queen Mary I effectively. Most people consider Mary the first queen without a king of England. She also received the nickname “Bloody Mary” due to the 280 Protestants that she had burned at the stake during her reign.

I picked Queen Mary I because I had a general knowledge about her reign, as well as her nickname. I thought it would be interesting to learn a little bit more about her. Although Mary was definitely not the perfect leader, I admire the way she got things done and didn’t let people decide her fate for her. I obviously don’t condone beheadings and murders but she was definitely a powerful woman and did not let people get her down for it. Although I’m sure Queen Elizabeth I, her successor, did not agree with anything Queen Mary I accomplished during her reign, Mary is technically the reason Elizabeth ever came to power. If Mary had not beheaded Lady Jane Grey, both of their opportunities to be heir to the throne would still be considered illegitimate. Mary leaves behind the legacy of allowing women to rule England, and without her who knows how long it would’ve been until a queen ruled England kingless.

Cady with her BFF Mary

SIR WALTER RALEIGH 1552-1618 (By Charlie Clark)

The first leader I decided to pose with on the second floor was Sir Walter Raleigh, who was situated in one of the first gallery rooms of the exhibit. This person lived from 1552 to 1618 and was best known in the Elizabethan Era for his feats in exploration, becoming an instrumental figure in the British colonization of North America. The biggest aspect I admire about this leader was they they had the bravery and ambition to spearhead trips to lands that had never been visited by any Brit before. Making a huge difference in both the size and wealth of the British Empire, Raleigh was able to travel to South America on an infamous search for the golden city “El Dorado”, and also established the Roanoke Colony in Virginia that mysteriously disappeared in 1585. While his voyages were not always successful, his trips to the New World inspired many others to start a new life in the American colonies.

Charlie and Walter are homies

FLORA MACDONALD 1722-1790 (By Sam Brownell)

The National Portrait Gallery was a maze of art as it compiled breathtaking portraits of various figures from history.

Flora Macdonald caught my attention specifically because I had not idea who she was. There were many figures around the museum that I recognized or even knew about, but Flora’s painting did not stick out to me at first. It was not until I read about her that I become fascinated in her story.

Flora was an unlikely person to become a hero for Prince Charles Edward Stuart as he fled the battle of Culloden in 1746. After leading an army to overthrow King II the second, the Prince was defeated and had no choice, but to flee. He ran for two months before he ran into 24 year old Flora Macdonald. Her father and fiance were both in King George’s Army, but her gut told her that the right thing to do was help the Prince escape to safety. In order to save this man’s life, Flora risked her own safety and helped him sneak onto a ship and travel to the island of Raasay where he would head back to France. Once departed, the two never met again.

When Flora returned home and news spread of Prince Charles’ escape, she was imprisoned in London until 1747. Flora lived on famously for her deed and continued on in life with her husband and children. One more notable event in her life was when her ship was attacked by French privateers in 1779. Flora refused to go below deck to hide, and instead wanted to show she was not afraid and would remain where she was. She took a wound to the arm in the process, but still came out alive.

Flora’s leadership abilities stuck out to me specifically because she was in no place to be a leader. She was not a royal and grew up in a world where men controlled the land. Nevertheless, this did not stop her from standing up for what she believed was right. To save a man she never met, she risked her family and country’s trust by helping him escape to safety. She never let fear get in the way for standing up for herself and others. Additionally, she relentlessly put herself in positions where she was in control when she felt she needed to. Flora MacDonald was a truly fierce and courageous woman.

Flora is plotting to help Sam escape back to England once his Visa expires

CATHERINE MACAULAY 1731-1791 (By Emily Moser)

WHO RUN THE WORLD? Thankfully, not Catharine Macaulay. Walking through the National Portrait Gallery, I was greeted by picture after picture of many white old men. Although it is kind of something that is expected, especially with History the way it was, I was excited every time I found a portrait of a woman, specifically those that seemed to have accomplished some cool-ass things. The portrait on the 2nd floor that caught my eye what that of Catharine Macaulay who stunted around England doing cool historical and political things from 1731 to 1791. Although I don’t want to say whether or not her bold nose was my initial reason for picking her, I will say that it doesn’t hurt. She was a very strong woman and managed to gain a lot of power politically. She was known for letting her voice be heard and not backing down. However, I do not necessarily think that Catharine and I would be pals. This is because she didn’t ever push for votes for women and even believed that the reason women were weak is because of their lack of education. Big-yikes. She wrote 8 volumes on the history of England and 8 other works of historic nature. She also is known as being the first English radical woman to visit America after independence and was known by many as a very thoughtful individual. She was ultimately seen as a controversial woman writer and has been left out of popular history because of it. However, I think it's important to give Catharine a shout out because even though she did some things that I find slightly questionable, she was bold, followed her gut instinct and was a prominent historical and political figure that should be recognized.

Catharine and Emily love a good selfie

MARY WOLLSTONECRAFT 1758-1797 (By Jessica Bond)

If you were to ask anyone today who were the founding members of the first wave feminist movement in the United States, most people would say Susan B. Anthony or Sojourner Truth. But how about the founding members of the first wave feminist in the United Kingdom? To be completely honest, I had no idea who they were, until stumbling upon the legendary Mary Wollstonecraft’s portrait. Although alive during the 18th century, Mary Wollstonecraft’s work has had a long-standing impact on the feminist movement worldwide. To many, she is regarded as the “foremother” of the British feminist movement.

I picked Mary Wollstonecraft because I was inspired by how she was able to take her troubled upbringing and turn it into something productive and put all of her passion into her writing. I admire her courage to break preconceived notions of what it meant to be a woman during this time. Her most famous book titled, Vindication of the Rights of Woman, goes against everything that women were taught to be. This piece of work stands as a defining moment in which women take initiative and say they are not meant to be confined to household duties. Mary Wollstonecraft’s work has inspired an entire movement that is dedicated to the equal treatment of women and even Elizabeth Cady Stanton regards her work as a stepping stone to the birth of the world wide feminist movement.

Jess and Mary, friends forever

MARY SHELLEY 1797-1851 (By Sam Berit)

So many leaders, so little time.

The National Portrait Gallery hosts a bevy of painted faces, but only 2 struck me enough to commit to researching. The eldest of my choices is Mary Shelley. Painted with oils on canvas and encased in an opulent frame, Shelley’s face was actually not what drew me to her. I knew her name.

Born exactly 200 years and 1 month prior to me on August 30th 1797, this impressive author came into the world. Shelley is the daughter (and opposing portrait wall buddy!) of the iconic feminist writer Mary Wollstonecraft and political writer William Godwin. Shelley lived a turbulent life filled with infidelity, rebellion, and financial and emotional hardship. Despite these difficulties, Shelley sought inspiration from Lord Byron and began writing her first piece of horror-based literature. It was this first project that would be the reason why I connected with her name at a gallery- hundreds of years after her passing.

Mary Shelley wrote her most notable work, Frankenstein or The Modern Prometheus, at the age of 18. It was published anonymously in London in 1818 when Shelley was 20, and then it was published with her name in 1823. I read this book in my freshman year of high school, and I can recall how profoundly different it was than anything else I read previously. As noted on the placard beside her portrait, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein was “the first novel to seriously question the human impact of scientific research.” I truly value when someone can create an original work that inspires writers. This novel was an incredible source of inspiration not only for writers but also for humanity as a whole. Shelley was a pioneer who altered the style of science fiction and introduced countless generations to the personal side of science.

Mary Shelley went on to write several more novels such as Valperga and The Last Man before passing away in 1851. Shelley’s legacy lives on through her literature.

Mary loved Sam's company today!

DAME CHRISTABEL PANKHURST 1880-1958 (By Sam Berit)

My second leading lady is Dame Christabel Pankhurst. Unlike Mary Shelley, I did not know Pankhurst’s wordy name prior to my stroll around the National Portrait Gallery. Instead, it was Pankhurst’s stunningly dramatic image that allured me to her. After reading her placard, I was absolutely weak to write about her.

Dame Christabel Pankhurst was born on September 22, 1880 in Manchester and she died 1958. In an even less progressive state of the world, Pankhurst developed a well-reasoned passion to fight unapologetically for women’s rights. Alongside her equally determined mother, Pankhurst founded the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) to campaign for women’s right to vote. Referencing the Union’s slogan, “Deeds not Words”, Pankhurst orchestrated her actions around civil disobedience and militant strategy to push back in the feminist fight prior to World War I. It was Pankhurst’s strong will and aggressive desire to stand up for women that earned her Dame title in 1936.

I knew I had to cover Dame Christabel Pankhurst when I read about her courageous fight for women’s rights. Her strength is admirable, and I am pleased to see that very same strength in the world today. Pankhurst created a form of public disapproval towards inequality that is present in so many movements and marches that are happening right now. Pankhurst is a feminist icon whose influence will continue to echo through the years.

Christabel and Sam: Twins

MAHATMA GANDHI 1869-1948 (By Cady Cohen)

Mahatma Gandhi was an Indian activist that was best known for his peaceful protest for Indian independence from the British in 1942. His non-violent protests were ground-breaking, where he undertook long fasts in order to prove his worth to the cause. He also undertook fasts to stop religious violence after India’s independence. Gandhi was sadly assassinated in 1948 by a Hindu nationalist. His legacy still lives on though, as his birthday is a national holiday in India and worldwide it is the International Day of Nonviolence.

I chose Gandhi because I knew how much of an impact he had politically, and all of it was through peaceful protests which I think is amazing. I once heard a quote in high school while learning about the Civil Rights Movement in America and it was something along the lines of “if you have nothing to live for, find something to die for”. This struck me because I am a very passionate person and I always go back to this quote when I am feeling down. I think everyone should be that passionate about something. It is clear that Gandhi felt this way, seeing as he fasted for long periods of time in order to make change that he believed in. That is what I admire so much about him. He was probably a huge role model for Martin Luther King Jr. as well; he definitely had a long lasting impact on the world and is still a role model to me and millions across the globe.

Cady and Gandhi after having a deep conversation

DAME JUDI DENCH 1934-Present (By Emily Moser)

For a while, I wasn’t sure who I wanted to highlight for my second and more modern portrait. However, Dame Judi Dench managed to sneak her way into to have not only one but two portraits! That is a huge feat in of itself. Nice job finessing Judi! Proud of you! It is definitely well deserved. Many think fondly of Judi as one of the best British Actresses of the time and I agree! In 1957 started her professional career doing different theatre productions across England. Before that, she was stationed at Royal Albert Hall which basically means Judi and me are next door neighbors! She continued to gain in popularity and then entered the film and TV world. Known by many as M in the James Bond films, she is also known for being in Skyfall, Victoria & Abdul, As Time Goes by and Shakespeare in love. She officially entered Dame status in 1988 after being made an officer of the British order in 1970. She is an Oscar winner, a Golden Globes WInner, and a 10 time BAFTA winner, just to name a few. She has made such an impact to the entertainment industry throughout her career that she was awarded the Richard Harris Award at the British Independent Film Awards for her contribution to British films. I think it’s safe to say Dame Judi is the icon we’ve always wanted and I know that I have a truly lovely time hanging out with her at the National Portrait Gallery.

Dame Judi Dench and Dame Emily Moser

PAUL SMITH 1946-Present (By Charlie Clark)

The second portrait I chose to document is of Paul Smith, who is a leader like Walter Raleigh, but in a completely different way. Paul Smith is an influential British fashion designer who mainly focuses on men’s clothing and accessories. I picked him because I am quite familiar with his brand, and was instantly drawn to his portrait on the first floor of the gallery. I admire Paul Smith for his use of bright, vivid, color in his menswear designs, which is something that many men’s designers often avoid. There is a carefree and fun attitude that his clothes are often associated with, and if I had the money I’d probably be wearing them! Smith has taken over the fashion world in the past several decades, and has made a name for himself both in England and around the world. He was appointed a Royal CBE award for his contributions to fashion, a feat that not many designers have ever achieved. Even though his years of designing may come to an end as he nears old age, the legacy he will leave behind with his brand seems to be everlasting.

Charlie and Paul Showing Off Their Designs

SIR ELTON JOHN 1947-Present (By Jessica Bond)

There can be many words used to describe Sir Elton John. Some would use innovative, stylish, and definitely talented. But there’s definitely one word that everyone can agree upon and that’s legendary. Since the late 20th century, Elton John has been an influential figure in the music industry and has become a pop culture icon. I initially chose Elton John because when I think of great British music, Elton John is one of the first names I think of (One Direction as well!) and I wanted to take a deeper look into how he’s become such an influential figure in not only the UK, but all over the world. I admire Elton John’s risk taking in terms of his fashion choices (his legendary Dodgers stadium outfit) and being vulnerable in terms of his sexuality. During this time, coming out as a member of the LGBTQ community was extremely difficult, but Elton John was able to persevere.

Elton John is regarded as the third best selling Billboard Hot 100 artist of all time and was inducted in the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame in 1994; there is no denying the influence that he has had on the music industry. Besides being one of Britain’s best selling artists, his philanthropy work has shown that celebrities should take a stand for what they believe in. In 1992, he started the Elton John AIDS Foundation that helps those who are infected by the AIDS virus through emotional, physical and even financial support. This allows for those who don’t have their own support to not feel alone during this difficult and stressful time. Sir Elton John’s legacy today is to always stay true to yourself and no matter the venue ALWAYS DRESS TO IMPRESS.

Jess and Elton Jammin' Out

PRINCESS DIANA 1961-1997 (By Kimi Bath)

The more modern figure I decided to do more research on what Princess Diana of Wales. I wanted to learn more about her because I really didn’t know anything and she made such a significant impact on British culture. She was married and later divorced to Prince Charles. They were parents to Duke of Cambridge William and Duke of Sussex Harry. She adored by the public as being a fashion icon and was overall a very respected celebrity. She supported many charities varying from human and children rights and hoped to make an impact to help those in need.

The death of Princess Diana was truly one of the most horrific events in modern day British history. She was tragically killed in a car crash trying to escape the paparazzi. This event is still a topic up for debate. There are many conspiracies out there that try to crack the code of Princess Diana’s death. Many believe that the princess was in fact murdered and it was not just a car accident.

Princess Diana was a public icon that served as a public figure for woman around the world. Although her life was filled with luxury and fame, she did indeed struggle as any ordinary person does. She suffered from depression and bulimia during her reign. Despite these struggles she consistently kept on a brave face and persisted to work to help others.

The natural portrait gallery enabled my mind to be blown even more. One of the most crazy things to me is that people were capable of having skills that enable them to create beautiful artwork and architecture. Especially with the lack of technology, I can’t even image people making giant cathedrals and painting full sized portraits. These kinds of things you can’t even see in America because of how much of a baby we are.

Welp, it’s Spring Break szn, so I’m off! Cheers!

Kimi joins the royal family

MALALA YOUSAFZAI 1997-Present (By Sam Brownell)

Malala was always one of those figures that I recognized the name, briefly knew her story, but still had much more to delve into. After seeing her in the Portrait Gallery and researching more about her, I concluded that she was the perfect person to writer about.

Malala was born in Pakistan in 1997. Growing up, she loved going to school and learning. However, when she was only eleven years old, the Taliban took over her town and made strict rules that were brutally punishable. These rules included no television, music, but most important, no education for women. At a very young age, Malala was courageous enough to speak out against these rules, as she felt very strongly about people’s right to learn. After speaking publicly for a few years, Malala became a target. When coming home on a bus one day, a member of the Taliban boarded the bus to find her, and shot her in the head.

After years of rehabilitation, Malala never once gave up. She chose to take a stand in what she believed in and continue to fight. In 2014 she established the Malala fund, which is aimed towards giving girls more of an opportunity in life. In recognition for her admirable work, she received the Nobel Peace Prize for this. To this day she continues schooling at the University of Oxford and relentlessly advocates in everything she believes in. Her name became famous after she survived a shot to the head, and she took her fame to use it for something good.

Malala is the definition of a leader. From a young age she risked her life to stand up for her own rights as well as many other girls’. She survived an attack that should have left her dead, and it only pushed her even further to advocate for what she thought was right. Malala works hard every day to make sure that one day, girls that are in her position as a child will no longer have to suffer with no education. At only 21 years old, Malala is an inspiration for all.

Sam wanted to smile but Malala liked the straight face look