Lawn

The idea of nurturing a lawn at the entrance of private residences and public buildings was born in the castles of French and English Aristocrats in the late middle Ages. In the early modern age this habit struck deep roots, and became the trademark of nobility.

The precious lawn was often the setting for important celebrations and social events, and at all other times was strictly off-limits. To this day, in countless palaces, government buildings and public venues a stern sign commands people to 'Keep off the grass'. ....

Royal palaces and ducal chateaux turned the lawn into a symbol of authority. Whn the late modern period kings were toppled and dukes were guillotined, the new presidents and prime ministers kept the lawns. Parliaments, supreme courts, presidential residences and other public buildings increasingly proclaimed their power in row upon row of neat green blades......

. . . . Grass is nowadays the most widespread crop in the USA after maize and wheat, and the lawn industry (plants, manure, mowers, sprinklers, gardens) accounts for billions of dollars every year. Page 61 / 64