An idea promoted by Pope Urban II at the end of the 11th century continues to resonate in modern politics. Jonathan Phillips traces the 800-year history of ‘Crusade’ and its power as a concept that shows no sign of diminishing.
Ray Laurence considers how children were seen in ancient Rome and looks at some of the harsher aspects of childhood – sickness, violence and endless work.
Robert Carr assesses the nature of British rule in India during a key, transitional phase.
Ian Thatcher refuses to take Trotsky at his own valuation.
John Matusiak examines whether a common interpretation can survive detailed scrutiny.
Stephen Roberts explodes a popular historical over-simplification.
Historian of suburbia Mark Clapson peers over the fences of Wisteria Lane to discover a fifty-year-old myth still at work.
The twentieth anniversary this month of the 1985 Durham Miner’s Gala, the first to be held after the end of the miners’ strike of 1984-85, will be a time for reflection and pride. Hester Barron considers the history and social meaning of the Durham miners’ annual day out.
Maxine Berg looks at the commercial battle to dominate Europe that ran alongside the wars with France, and the product revolution that gave Britain the edge in this field.
Murray Watson looks at the historical roots of a phenomenon few commentators have noted: the sizeable English presence in Scotland.
