Political

Martin Plaut examines the alliance between the African National Congress (ANC), the Communist Party and the major trade union movement, COSATU.

The chain of events that led to the rule of Saddam Hussein began with the murder of the 23-year-old King Faisal during the 14 July Revolution.

Chris Millington says we shouldn’t be surprised by the Front national’s show of strength in the recent French elections.

Margaret Thatcher became Britain's first female Prime Minister on May 4th, 1979. Some other firsts claimed by those occupying the country's highest office.

Nigel Jones traces the chequered history of European referendums and asks why they appeal as much to dictators as to democrats.

In 1811 skilled textile workers in Britain attacked factories and factory owners to defend their livelihoods. By the time the Luddite cause hit Yorkshire in 1812, it had become a genuine mass movement.

The election for London Mayor took place on May 3rd, marked by the bitter rivalry between the present incumbent Boris Johnson and his predecessor Ken Livingstone. But, says Penelope J. Corfield, it’s just another chapter in London’s long electoral history.

Britain's political elite are often criticised for having few achievements away  from Whitehall. Richard Foreman contrasts their inexperience with the 19th-century statesman Lord Rosebery.

Russ Foster introduces one of Britain's least understood premiers.