Behind Swan Upping, the British tradition that recently took over the River Thames
Behind Swan Upping, the British tradition that recently took over the River Thames
Swan Upping, King Charles’ five-day event that takes over the River Thames, is a nearly thousand-year old British tradition. Here’s a deeper look at the event and its history.
Read the full article on CBS World
Truth Analysis
Analysis Summary:
The article is mostly accurate, presenting a general overview of Swan Upping. The claim of it being a "nearly thousand-year old" tradition is slightly exaggerated, as the Crown's ownership dates back to the 12th century, but the formal Upping is more recent. The reporting is relatively neutral, with a slight positive slant towards the tradition.
Detailed Analysis:
- Claim: Swan Upping is a nearly thousand-year old British tradition.
- Verification Source #1: Does not directly confirm the age but mentions it is an annual event on the River Thames.
- Verification Source #2: Refers to it as a centuries-old tradition.
- Verification Source #3: Refers to it as an annual tradition.
- Assessment: Mostly accurate. While the Crown's association with swans dates back centuries, the specific 'Upping' tradition may not be quite a thousand years old. 'Centuries-old' is a more accurate description.
- Claim: Swan Upping is King Charles' five-day event that takes over the River Thames.
- Verification Source #1: Implies the Royal Family's involvement through the title 'The Royal Family' and mentions the event.
- Verification Source #2: Confirms it is a five-day journey up the Thames.
- Verification Source #3: Confirms it takes place on the River Thames.
- Verification Source #5: Mentions the Queen's Swan Uppers.
- Assessment: Accurate. The event takes place over five days on the River Thames and involves the Crown (now King Charles).
- Claim: Swan Upping is a royal census of swans on the river and gives insight into the bird's population.
- Verification Source #3: Swan upping is a royal census of swans on the river and gives insight into the bird's population.
- Assessment: Accurate. Source 3 directly supports this claim.
Supporting Evidence/Contradictions:
- Source 3: "Swan upping is a royal census of swans on the river and gives insight into the bird's population."
- Source 2: "This is a five-day journey up the Thames where a flotilla of traditional boats manned by..."