Trade & Economy
Why Britain? The Industrial Revolution Was Not Inevitable
Coal, colonies, culture or cheap labour: historians still disagree about why the machine age began where it did.
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Africa & the World
Was the 1914 Amalgamation of Nigeria a Mistake?
A colonial decision to join two protectorates made one country. A century on, Nigerians still argue about whether it was a gift, a convenience or an error.
Africa & the World
The Benin Bronzes: Whose Art Is It?
In 1897 a British force burned Benin City and carried away thousands of works. The question of who should keep them is still being argued.
War & Conflict
Why Did the Zulu Win at Isandlwana, and Still Lose the War?
It was among the worst defeats the British Army suffered in the colonial era. Within six months the Zulu kingdom was broken.
Ideas & Belief
Were the “Dark Ages” Really Dark?
A thousand years of European history got a bad name from people who wanted to look bright by comparison.
Politics & Power
Was Napoleon Really Short?
The tyrant with the complex is one of history’s most durable jokes. It begins with a conversion error and a very good propaganda campaign.