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More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
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cockfighting
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From the 16C to the 19C one of the most popular gambling sports in Britain. Two birds, made more deadly by the addition of sharpened steel spurs, were set to fight to the death in a small enclosed area (the cockpit), often with large bets placed on their chances. Cockfighting was banned in 1849, but still continues in some places illegally.
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