Part of he confusion is simple. When we count from one to 10, we have ten of someting. When we count from one to 10 years, we only have nine until the last year is competed.

Time starts with zero, and when a year is completed, we have one. The years 1 to Jan. 1st 100 would be 99 years. (remember this folks) The years 1-1000 would be 999 years, because the year 1000 must be completed to be counted.

So to answer two more recent questions. 1 to start of 1001 = 1000 years, 1001 to start of 2001 another 1000 years. Years are completed on the first day of the year, but on the first day of completion.

So imagine it this way. Someone has sold you ten casino chips. As they count them, each one is picked up, one... then handed to you. The theory some people are arguing here is that the chip has been counted, before it's handed to you. SO when I say Ten, I don't have to give you the last chip, because it's already counted. <G> The year must be complete to be counted, and the chip must be in your hand to be counted. (hopes this clears it up?)

If not I will be very happy to send you 9 chips and say the deal is complete for 10..