History Today

Tony Benn discusses the individuals and influences that underpin his belief in the importance of developing a historical perspective.

Denis Judd questions the role of Empire in defining Britain’s identity in relation to Europe and the rest of the world.

Leah Leneman describes the traps for the unwary caused by the marriage laws of 18th-century Scotland.

News of an exhibition of wall-painting that will travel around the country.

Brian Golding looks at life under the Norman Yoke during the consolidating reign of Henry I.

Tony Aldous introduces Sir Neil Cossons, the new chairman of English Heritage.

David Culbert on a cinematic blend of propaganda and entertainment that proved remarkably successful with US audiences during the Second World War.

The novelist D.M. Thomas describes how he gained inspiration from a black-and-white photograph of Finnish troops fighting in the Winter War.