History Today

Objective memoirs or economy with the truth? Michael Jones sifts for an assessment through a courtier's recollections of power politics in fifteenth-century Europe.

Peter J. Ucko looks at the strengths and weaknesses of archaeological methods and interpretations.

Dick Wilson explores the enigma of the Chinese Communist leader and premier.

On the 50th anniversary of the end of Spanish Civil War, Michael Alpert chronicles the ebb and flow of battle between Republican and Nationalists.

'Sweet' Polly Oliver went to war to be with her lover, but there were many women for whom military life was an end in itself. Julie Wheelwright uncovers the career of one woman whose ambition was amply fulfilled.

Alan Thomas takes a look Samuel Plimsoll, the nineteenth century reformer who left his mark on ships all over the world.

Tony Aldous examines the restoration of Morecambe’s winter gardens.

Rosemary Burton observes new plans for museums.

Michael Dillon looks at the little-known and less appreciated activities of a trader class that provided a solid base for the prosperity the Ming and Qing Chinese empires.

There is nothing new in the practice of terrorism through hostage taking. Gregor Dallas traces its roots to the events in Paris during the Spring of 1871 when the city was riven by civil strife.