Our Calendar   By: George Nichols Packer

Our Calendar by George Nichols Packer is an insightful exploration of the history and significance of the calendar that has become an indispensable part of our daily lives. The author takes readers on an engaging journey through time, presenting a comprehensive look at how the calendar has evolved over centuries and its various cultural, religious, and societal implications.

Packer begins by delving into the origins of the calendar, tracing it back to ancient civilizations like the Sumerians and Egyptians. He seamlessly intertwines historical facts with compelling anecdotes, making the book an enjoyable and educational read. Through his meticulous research, the author uncovers the motivations behind the development of different calendar systems, shedding light on the inherent need for humans to organize and measure time.

What makes Our Calendar truly captivating is Packer's ability to contextualize the calendar within broader social and cultural dynamics. He skillfully portrays how the calendar has been shaped by religious beliefs, political influences, and scientific advancements. From the Roman calendar's association with various deities to the Christian adoption of the Gregorian calendar, Packer highlights the profound impact of religious institutions on our perception and use of time.

In addition, Packer delves into the emergence of alternative calendar systems and the persistent debates over the standardization of timekeeping. The author examines different attempts to reform the calendar, offering insight into the scientific, economic, and cultural implications of these proposed changes. This aspect of the book brings a refreshing perspective and encourages readers to think critically about the limitations of our current calendar system.

Packer's writing style is accessible, making complex historical and scientific concepts easily understandable. He strikes a balance between providing detailed information and maintaining a narrative flow, never overwhelming readers with excessive technicalities. Furthermore, the inclusion of visuals such as illustrations and diagrams adds visual appeal and enhances comprehension of the material.

One slight drawback of Our Calendar is that, at times, the book can feel slightly repetitive, especially when covering similar content across different historical periods. Additionally, some readers might have hoped for a deeper exploration of specific cultural or historical contexts related to calendar development. However, these minor shortcomings do not detract significantly from the overall quality of the book.

Overall, Our Calendar by George Nichols Packer is a thought-provoking exploration of a seemingly mundane aspect of our lives that rarely receives the attention it deserves. Packer's meticulous research, engaging storytelling, and comprehensive analysis make this book a fascinating read for history enthusiasts, cultural critics, and anyone curious about the intricacies of timekeeping. Through his masterful exploration of the calendar's evolution, Packer reminds us of the profound influence that something as seemingly simple as a calendar can have on shaping our daily lives, societies, and the course of history.

First Page:

Many years ago, while engaged in teaching, the writer of this little volume was in the habit of bringing to the attention of his pupils a few simple rules for finding the dominical letter and the day of the week of any given event within the past and the present centuries; further than this he gave the subject no special attention... Continue reading book >>