In honour of the American Thanksgiving Day holiday, and because I consider myself an amateur historian (who especially appreciates the absurd) I thought I would share with you my favourite Yankee loon of all time....Joshua Abraham Norton, first and only Emperor of the United States of America!

He was born in England in the early years of the nineteenth century. Joshua A. Norton was a successful businessman in both South Africa and The USA. An unfortunate turn in the rice market bankrupted him in 1854. This is when Joshua's life took a most interesting and unusual turn.......

On September 17, 1859 Joshua quite publicly declared that he was very upset with the political situation in the United States of America. In fact there was only one person in his mind that could fix the situation and that was Norton I, Emperor of the USA (himself of course).

Norton I, Emperor of the USA spent his days parading about the streets of San Francisco (his hometown) attired in a uniform of royal blue with gold epaulets, beaver hat, and umbrella, writing up all sorts of declarations (ignored by US Congress) and releasing them in the press. He would inspect the city's streets, buildings, and even police force with regularity.

Joshua had his supporters as well (eccentric as he was) and was much beloved by the locals who would refer to him as His Imperial Majesty. The currency he issued was even accepted by local businesses that he patronized.

The good Norton I, first and only Emperor of the USA passed away January 8, 1880.

And furthermore in honour of HIS memory I have decided to proclaim myself on this American holiday HRH Sue Empress of the Universe, you may send me your offerings, and prezzies post haste!

Happy Thanksgiving Day To All Of My American Friends & Family!