[Carry_Okie]

Was the Dark Ages called such because it was in fact darker worldwide? (atomspheric veil?)

Good one. A spacial dust cloud nucleating stratospheric aerosols? Sounds like it might be fun to brainstorm some time. I was thinking of the Phonicians.

[blam]

"I was thinking of the Phonicians."

What about the Phoenicians? (BTW, Phoenician means 'red hair' in ancient Greek)