What ChatGPT Gets Wrong About the City of Newcastle
By Sam Volpe
ChatGPT has gained popularity as an artificial intelligence tool all around the world, but what does it really know about the North East? Recently, a post on Facebook revealed ChatGPT had come up with the absurd statement that Cullercoats, North Tyneside, was once home to shipyards - this claim is incorrect. This led to a curious question of how well ChatGPT knew Newcastle. Thus, we decided to put ChatGPT to the test and asked for a brief history of Newcastle and what the city is known for.
Here is a breakdown of what ChatGPT got right and wrong about Newcastle:
Newcastle's Early History
ChatGPT began with some basic facts such as "Newcastle is a city in the north-east of England, it has been inhabited since Roman times, but the modern city of Newcastle began to take shape in the 11th century." This information is generally correct and aligns with the accepted notions concerning Newcastle's early history. However, with regards to the Roman era, it is worth noting that Hadrian's Wall, which is located in Newcastle, proves that there was indeed something happening here during Roman times. Therefore, this statement can be viewed as partly vague.
Medieval Newcastle
ChatGPT further stated that in the 12th century, King Henry II granted the city's charter, allowing Newcastle to hold markets and fairs. Although, the first mention of a charter comes in the time of King John, and even then, it is not entirely clear if King John granted the charter. However, this is a very technical topic.
With respect to the coal trade, ChatGPT's claim that the coal industry began in Newcastle during the 12th century is not entirely accurate, but it is not too far off, as King Henry III granted a charter relating to coal in 1239. The wool industry was thriving in Newcastle, and it was also one of the leading trading centers in the north of England during this period.
Newcastle in the 18th, 19th, and 20th Centuries
ChatGPT stated that Newcastle prospered during the 18th and 19th centuries, mainly due to the coal industry and the expansion of the city's port. However, there were many significant events that took place during this 600 year period, which ChatGPT failed to mention. For instance, Newcastle was a key stronghold during the English Civil War and part of Scotland once or twice. Also, there were mills in Newcastle, but not on the scale of other industrial cities such as Manchester.
Although the coal industry declined in Newcastle during the 20th century, the city has reinvented itself as a center for culture, education, and tourism. Today, Newcastle is known for its vibrant nightlife, world-class museums and galleries, and historic landmarks such as the Tyne Bridge and Newcastle Castle. ChatGPT is accurate when it comes to modern Newcastle.
What is Newcastle Known For?
When asked about what Newcastle is known for, ChatGPT mentioned the following:
- Brown Ale
- Newcastle United FC
- The Angel of the North
Brown Ale is a well-known brand and has become popular globally, and Newcastle United is a well-known football club. The Angel of the North is a picturesque public art piece that is fairly famous. However, ChatGPT's claim that this statue is in Newcastle is not really true.
ChatGPT's Conclusion
Overall, ChatGPT concluded that Newcastle is renowned for its friendly people, vibrant culture, and rich history, making it a popular destination for visitors from around the world. We couldn't agree more!
