Was German Unification Inevitable?
In January 1871 Bismarck declared the German nation united. Following a tragic 20th century, Germany reunified once more in 1990. Four historians offer their perspectives on both events.
Head to Head
Was Thomas Becket a Saint or an Arrogant Troublemaker?
We ask four historians to consider the reputation of Henry II’s Archbishop of Canterbury, who was murdered 850 years ago this month.
Was there a Women’s Renaissance?
We ask four historians whether the great advances of the Renaissance were extended to women.
Could the Soviet Union Have Survived?
We ask four historians whether the demise of one of the 20th century’s superpowers was as inevitable as it now seems.
Is the Story of ‘The Few’ More Myth Than Reality?
Eighty years on from the height of the Battle of Britain, four historians confront the nature of this key episode in the Second World War.
What is History?
Four historians consider the most fundamental question of all, one famously posed by E.H. Carr almost 60 years ago.
Who is History’s Worst Political Adviser?
Four historians consider the harm caused by those who should have helped their political masters.
Does Boom Always Follow Bust?
Four historians consider whether the sudden collapse of the world economy caused by the Covid-19 pandemic will be followed by an equally dramatic resurgence.
How Have Ordinary People Responded in Times of Crisis?
Four historians consider what the past might tell us about everyday responses to the Covid-19 pandemic.
What can History tell us about Epidemics?
Can we learn from history about how diseases spread, and how we respond to them?