I think some things are "hardwired" into our cultures...practically genetic. And I know that various cultural theorists put a lot of credence in the sub-conscious icons and attitudes that colour perceptions. But I have always been sceptical of people who want to tell me what my "real" reasons are regarding a decision. (Heck - most of my decisions are based on either guilt or fear. I learned that a LONG time ago...) I think what I am trying to say is that rather then saying "This is the way it was" (unless you have some really good documentation - or wrote something yourself) it would behoove a lot of people to say rather "this is the way some think it was" or "this is the way it might have been". (Note: myself included. I tend to state flatly things that should be put as theory or opinion...)