What is Considered "Historical?": Different Interpretations on Historical Preservation as Displayed by Eddie Izzard

At one point in Barthel's Historic Preservation, she mentions how Britain and the United States have different interpretations on what they consider "historical." Because Britain has historical sites that date back to Roman and Celtic times, they are more selective to what they consider worthy of preservation. There is also the factor that Britain has numerous historic landmarks in a small, densely populated country. In constrast, preservation efforts in the United States has been performed on landmarks as recent as the early McDonald's hamburger stands. Because the United States is a relatively "new nation," historic preservation is able to save more recent, and even commercial, entities. The United States' term of "historic" is more broadly defined because it has the room to do so. (29-30)

While I read this portion of Barthel's book, I could not help but think of a stand-up routine performed by Eddie Izzard. Throughout his act, Izzard criticizes and jokes about historical events. In one of his jokes, he makes fun of Americans and what they consider to be "history." To Izzard, Europe is "where the history comes from." Here is a link to this portion of Eddie Izzard's "Dress to Kill" routine:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jj4QmfJGBug&feature=related

Drag the starting point to 55 seconds, which is where he begins the joke about American history.

(JUST TO LET YOU KNOW: Eddie Izzard is known to use strong language in his routines. And yes, he is wearing make-up.)

Thought the class would be interested to see it! Enjoy!