The Fate of Phaeton
A horrifying tale of reckless daring and ecological catastrophe.
History Today
‘Edmund Burke and the Invention of Modern Conservatism, 1830-1914’ review
The winner of the 2018 Longman-History Today Book Prize provides an intriguing and accessible study on the evolution, dissemination and continued influence of Edmund Burke’s political ideas.
The Rise of Air Conditioning
Air conditioning across the US brought an industrial boom – at a cost to the environment.
On the Spot: John Bew
‘What is the most common misconception about my field? That it is ‘great man’ history.’
Beyond the Warrior Queen
Medieval women wielded spiritual and political power in subtly effective ways.
How the Press Created Jack the Ripper
At first glance, the newspapers’ sensational coverage has changed little since Jack the Ripper struck. However, the tone of the Victorian press was as varied as its readers.
‘Municipal Dreams’ by John Boughton review
From the practical idealism of early municipal reformers to the tragedy of Grenfell Tower.
Lest We Forget
The British public are obsessed with the First World War, but know little about how it was brought to an end.
We All Scream for Ice Cream
Sweets made of ice or snow have been with us for millennia, evolving slowly into the modern chilly treat.
The Anglo-Zanzibar War
The shortest war in history began (and ended) on 27 August 1896.