[Sussex] Setting permissions on subdirectories

[angelo servini]

Hi, could anyone please tell me which console command to use and the 
flags needed to set owners and permissions on all files in a 
subdirectory and its child subdirectories below that?

The reason I am asking is, that I saved off my original home directory 
and then re-installed my linux (xandros) partition. When I copied the 
home back in, I found that everything under home was re-assigned to root 
user!  Very frustrating when a letter written in OO refuses to save.

Anyhow, my right index finger is burning up with all the mouse clicks 
inflicted on it via the kde way.  :-(  So I think "come on this is 
linux, there must be an easier way" :-)

Thanks

Angelo.