How would readers know the reference point unless you inform them. Of course they will defer to colloquialisms . In some cases 5000 years , some 1000 years . With something as broad and impactful as this, they certainly assume more than 150 years .
They would know by reading beyond the headline. I am not aware of the colloquialism as you describe it.
They would know by reading beyond the headline. I am not aware of the colloquialism as you describe it.