** High Priority ** I am in the process of writing paper in which I examine how English writers of the early modern period characterized other nationalities# drinking habits, and in the process helped define particular patterns of drinking as distinctly English. That process of differentiation, in turn, was an important element in creating the semblance of cultural and political unity in early modern England, and occurred at a time when the state was seeking to impose uniformity in both local institutions and in religious practice. The paper compares the English example to developments elsewhere in early modern Europe, and speculates on the early role of national and ethnic stereotypes in molding and reinforcing certain drinking practices. The primary materials consulted in the paper date from the late fifteenth century to the first years of the so-called "gin epidemic" of 1720 to 1751. Can anyone out there recommend relevant secondary sources? In particular, I am looking for studies on the emergence and definition of national identity in early modern Europe. Thanks very much for any advice and help that you might offer. Jessica Warner Addiction Research Foundation 33 Russell St. Toronto, ON M5S 2S1 Phone: (416) 595-6000 FAX: (416) 595-6899 e-mail: [log in to unmask]