Feature

The introduction of decimal coinage to the UK was a long while coming. But the transition was surprisingly smooth.

Oliver Cromwell’s desire to bring about the readmission of Jews to England was met with prejudice and opposition. But he succeeded, with help from powerful friends.

The first German constitution was ratified in April 1871. Designed by Otto von Bismarck to preserve the old regime, it would eventually help bring about its downfall.

A newly independent Tanganyika hoped to capture part of the lucrative European market for African tourism. But its rivalry with neighbouring Kenya proved an obstacle.

The obsession with gifted children is an ancient one, but it took on new life in the 20th century.

Not since the Middle Ages have the ancient traditions of fancy dress been so potent.

Having achieved success in the Seven Years War, the following decade would be a chastening experience for Britain, culminating in the loss of its American colonies. 

An armed uprising by a handful of religious extremists in Restoration London led to serious consequences for British and, ultimately, world history. 

Puccini’s opera revealed misunderstandings and stereotypes on both sides of the East-West divide.

The resort to law was an integral and regular part of everyday life in medieval Britain – and not just for men. Town court records offer glimpses into the lives of hundreds of ordinary women, through the lawsuits they were involved in.