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First dates can be one of life’s most stressful experiences, as we put our looks, personality and sense of style on the line. We’ve all experienced the classic side effects of first date nerves, be it the sweaty palms, the nervous stammer or the annoying mental blank.

Yet, no matter how nervous we might feel on a first date, there are always some conversation topics and bad behaviours that should be strictly avoided. From awkward innuendos to suggestive staring, here is a countdown of the top ten deadly mistakes that every first date goer should steer well clear of.

1. Arriving late 

It might sound like a simple one to get wrong, but getting there on time is literally the first impression you’ll ever make on your potential future partner. If you show up late to the restaurant, your date will always clock you as a disorganised person, even if it’s on a completely subconscious level.

Of course, there are always going to be circumstances that can hold us up, whether it’s bad traffic or being delayed at work. Be sure to let your date know if you’re going to keep them waiting and make a point of apologising once you arrive.

2. Alcohol

Enjoying a glass of wine with your meal is one thing, but if you find yourself shooting tequilas then it’s safe to say you took a wrong turn somewhere along the line. Limiting your alcohol intake not only stops you making a fool of yourself, it’s also a matter of safety as you get to know this new person.

3. The ex

Under no circumstances is it appropriate to go into a lengthy discussion about your ex girlfriend or boyfriend. It doesn’t matter if they’re relevant to a witty anecdote or if their persistent phone calls are driving you mad, bringing them up is awkward and will probably damage the flow of easy conversation.

Keep in mind that by dropping their name or mentioning your past experiences together, it gives the expression you haven’t got over your old feelings and aren’t ready for a new relationship.

4. The telephone

Whether it’s work calling or your sister checking up on you, turn your phone off and show some basic manners. There’s nothing ruder than writing a text message while your date is trying to get to know you. If you’re waiting on an important phone call, or need to have it switched on in case the kids contact you, then politely explain the situation and keep the phone out of sight and out of mind.

5. Table manners

Licking your knife, belching loudly and picking that niggling piece of spinach from underneath your molar are all sure-fire ways of disgusting your date. If table manners aren’t your forte, try to be on your best behaviour.

This isn’t like the scene in Pretty Woman where the socially unaware, yet beautiful lead star’s lack of cutlery knowledge is seen as sweet and endearing. Bad table manners always leave a lasting impression, so put your elbows down, read up on which fork to use and keep a napkin on hand.

November 9th is a significant date in world history. Major historical developments and events occurred repeatedly on this date. For example in 1918, November 9 marked the end of the First World. In 1989, the same day coincided with the fall of Berlin Wall. Almost 200 years before that, Napoleon annexed France and became an emperor on November 9, 1799. As such, many historians believe that Modern History began and ended on the same date.

This article provides a detailed look at the top 10 significant events and historical developments that occurred on this monumental date. Raise your hand if you knew them already.

1. 1729:

Treaty of Seville is signed between France, Great Britain and Spain, signalling the end of the Anglo-Spanish War. The treaty assigned the territories of Fort McMahon and Gibraltar to Great Britain and the Duchy of Parma to Spain. A future alliance with Austria came as a direct result of the terms of the Treaty of Seville.

2. 1799:

18 Brumaire: Napoleon staged a coup d’état in France. He overthrew the French Directory and replaced it with the French consulate. The date signified the end of the French Revolution and the beginning of an empire which lasted until 1871.

3. 1867:

Meiji Restoration signified great changes for Japan as it restored Imperial powers in Japan. The Japanese Shogunate resigned on this date and transferred its power to the emperor. The major reason for the Meiji Restoration was the Industrial Revolution in Europe. In isolation for centuries, Japan was behind other countries. Japanese thus tried to combine Western forces and traditions with its own to advance itself.

4. 1872:

Great Boston Fire of 1872 was the biggest and the most costly in an urban region. It consumed 65 acres of land, 776 buildings and much of Boston’s financial sector. Although only 20 individuals fell victim to the fire, the cost totaled $73.5 million.

5. 1906:

Theodore Roosevelt was the first sitting President to travel outside of the United States. He traveled to Panama to check on the construction of the Canal. As a fundamental believer in safety and rights for workers, he demanded better working and health conditions. This role earned him the Noble Peace Prize the same year.

1. Living Space-1937:

Hitler announces his imperial motives and to acquire living space for Germans. At this point, the quest to unite Germans had already begun. Hitler acquired Saarland through a plebiscite in 1934. In 1938, he incorporated Austria into the German empire, renewing grossdeutsch and kleindeutsch debate and invaded Sudetenland. At the Munich Conference, France and Britain felt that he had every right to do this.

2. Trial of Saddam Hussein-2006:

Saddam Hussein and 2 others were tried, convicted and sentenced to death on November 5, 2006 for their involvement in massacre on 14 Shi’as in 1982. Saddam Hussein’s following execution was a turning point in Iraqi grim history.

3. Woman Suffrage in United States-1872:

Susan B. Anthony voted for the first time while representing women suffrage rights. As she went against the United States laws, she was fined $100. Officially women could not vote until 1920 when the 19th Amendment was introduced.

4. Glorious Revolution-1688:

The Glorious Revolution began on November 5, 1688 by William III. This signaled great change as Catholicism was no longer practiced by the state, absolute monarchy was abolished and the Bill of Rights was passed. Monarchs were also now constrained by the parliament and the constitution.

5. Jean Chrétien Assassination Attempt-1995:

André Dallaire attempted to assassinate the Prime Minister of Canada on November 5, 1995. He committed a break and entry in the home of the Prime Minister at 24 Sussex Drive. He was stopped by the Prime Minister’s wife who locked the door and called the RCMP. No harm was done to the Prime Minister or the wife.