History Today

A Long View of the Cold War

Paul Dukes takes a fresh look at the Cold War in the light of some recurring themes of Russian and American history since the 18th century.

Britain Abandons the Groundnuts Scheme

Started in 1947, to grow peanuts in Tanganyika as a contribution to both the African and British economies, the Groundnuts Scheme was abandoned four years later on January 9th, 1951.

Roman Holidays

Simon Thurley, Director of the Museum of London, describes the discovery at the bottom of his garden that changed his life.

Jack Simmons

A reflection of the life and work of the leading historian of British railways, who died in September 2000

Death of Lord Armstrong

The brilliant inventor and engineer William George Armstrong died on December 27th, 1900, aged ninety.