Volume 68 Issue 12 December 2018

A professionally organised covert industry satisfied the public’s demand for illicit books in the years before the French Revolution.

Norwich prospered in the 16th century, thanks to an influx of immigrants, who arrived fleeing persecution.

How does the reader decide if a history book is worth their time?

Rich enough to appeal to lords and dukes, the success of panettone is down to its festive, egalitarian simplicity.

A master historian’s definitive study of one of the most astonishing and influential careers in English history.

Changing views of illegitimate children raise both moral and economic issues.

The fall of man and the concept of Original Sin.

Folklore, fairies and demonic spirits in the sceptical 17th century.

From the Thirty Years War to the ancient civilisation of Iran, from Anglo-American rivalries in the desert to the persecution of indigenous peoples, historians select their favourite books of the past year.