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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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grog
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Rum diluted with water, issued until recently on ships of the royal navy. It derives its name from an improbable but authentic series of events. Edward Vernon (1684–1757) commanded a squadron in the West Indies in 1740 and was given the nickname Grog because he wore a cloak of grogram (a coarse fabric stiffened and made waterproof with gum). Sailors in Europe were allowed an astonishing daily ration of alcohol, a gallon of beer or a quart of wine. In the West Indies this became a pint of the local rum (a half pint for boys), with predictable consequences when distributed neat at midday.
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There was initial resentment at Vernon's order that the same ration be diluted and issued morning and evening, and 'grog' must originally have been a derisive term for the new drink. But the reform had excellent effect, and grog itself became a hallowed part of naval heritage after being officially adopted by the Admiralty. The ration was reduced during the 19C and from 1918 was limited to ratings, to whom the issue of grog continued until 1970.
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