This Week’s Question:
Caroline of Ansbach, later Queen of England, was born today. Who was her husband?
Last Week’s Question:
Legendary outlaw Dick Turpin was identified on this day in 1739, leading to his eventual trial and execution. Who identified him and how?
Answer: Turpin was identified by James Smith, the man who taught Turpin to write back when Turpin was a schoolboy. Dick was in prison for horse theft under an assumed name and wrote his brother-in-law a letter. The brother-in-law refused to accept it, claiming to know no such person. The letter was sent to the post office where Smith noticed it. Smith traveled to York Castle, where Turpin was being held, and identified him, receiving a 200 reward. Turpin was tried and hanged for theft and murder.
Kate Whitelaw, you got it right—well done!
For those of you who’d like a more musical version of the events, check this out:
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