From the Editor

An enchanting series revealed the strangeness of the past to generations of children.  

The late, great American novelist performed an important, but little-known, cultural role during the Cold War.  

Literature and the visual arts have long sought to depict the nature of conflict. But what about music?

In an age of renewed faction, a reminder of the power of friendship over politics. 

We will find it ever harder to navigate the past if we lose touch with the myths, legends and religions that helped shape it.  

A lack of historical knowledge is easily exploited in the fractious world of social media.

Though much of the West has withdrawn from empire, one of the world’s rising powers offers the latest twist on imperialism.  

The path to democracy is a long one. It should not be taken for granted.

Peter Quennell and Alan Hodge provide some historical background to the coronation.

History is at odds with our desire for simple certainties. Can its cultivation of complexity create a better future?