History Today

Historians are tethered to the archive, but sometimes fixing the gaps requires the techniques of a novelist.

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.

A thoughtful long view of men’s participation in, and consumption of, fashionable dress.

The Battle of Tondibi, which resulted in the defeat of the Songhay army, took place on 13 March 1591.

 ‘Human nature always remains the same.’

The fluid and unfixed Byzantine Empire.

Beginning in March 1971, the Bangladesh War of Independence led to East Pakistan becoming a new nation state. Four experts assess the war’s legacy.