History Today

Charles Spencer tells how the victories of his great ancestor John Churchill have always fascinated him.

Patricia Wright revisits the career of a 14th-century abbot who ruthlessly protected the interests of his abbey and who built a remarkable celestial clock.

Latha Menon deplores the effects of religious extremism on Indian society and the writing of history.

Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Finland, Matthew Kirk, describes the impact of the Crimean War on that country and how it is being commemorated.

Jeremy Black recalls two events, 300 years ago this summer, that heralded the emergence of Britain as a Continental power.

Gallery owner John Martin appeals to readers to help identify figures in a significant work ‘The Opening Session of the United Nations’ by the twentieth-century artist Feliks Topolski.

Geoffrey Parker considers the far-reaching consequences of a sudden change of plan by the king of Spain in 1567.

Anthony Fletcher reads his grandfather’s correspondence from the Western Front to see how he maintained morale and developed his leadership.

George Watson considers how news of a political and moral bombshell was received, particularly by intellectuals on both the Left and the Right.

Glen Jeansonne sees the former president as a mirror of his age.