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Time For Every Weapon of Choice!
Dueling started in the 17th century based on the medieval code of chivalry. The practice was not so much to kill your opponent but gain satisfaction from the event by restoring one’s sullied honor. The first recorded duel in the U.S. took place in the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1621. Contests began as a test between individuals wielding swords, then evolved into using matched dueling pistols by the 18th century. In my youth, my dad coveted his matched British pair of Purdey two-shot dueling pistols that my mom gave him as an anniversary gift while he was stationed in the United Kingdom.
Dueling has always been based on honor, and well, yes, pride too. It can be said that while dueling is a time-worn tradition, the weapons of choice have changed.
It appears that dueling for honor between individuals is a bit dated in the 21st century. However, dueling between sovereign states has enjoyed a continual progression of attitudes. Thankfully, nations haven’t used their nuclear weapon arsenals in fits of pride or honor. The newest tool, or weapon of potential mass destruction, is invoked frequently with varying, evolving results: the computer.
