Product Description

An absorbing overview of major events in England, Scotland and Wales, tracing the development of the nation from prehistoric times to the present day.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #321785 in Books
• Published on: 1989-02-20
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 192 pages

Customer Reviews

An excellent insight into history and its forces
I was surprised to see no one has reviewed this book so far. It's a must-read, not just because it's a very good introduction to the British history, but also because it offers a unique look at its twists and turns from so many perspectives - ethnic, economic, social, intellectual among others, describing changes as well as offering an insight into the forces behind them. I found myself reading and re-reading McDowall's book time and again.

For example, the part on The Tudors is divided into three chapters, the first one dealing with historical events - the establishment of a new monarchy, the Reformation, etc; another one with foreign policy, as well as developments in Wales, Scotland and Ireland; the third one with domestic life, forms of government, language and culture in Tudor times. Each era is given a similar treatment.

The good
- A unique insight into the reasons and forces behind historical developments and changes in society, technology, beliefs, and attitudes. For me this is the book's main selling point that makes it stand out among other history books.
- An accessible, illustrated introduction to the British history. However, there could be more maps and fewer illustrations.

The not so good
- A 1989 publication, meaning that it's slightly dated, not just because it doesn't cover the last 20 years, but also because it doesn't include the latest historical and anthropological research that has shed some more light on the origin of the Britons.
- Only 188 pages. It's not a bad thing for an introductory book, I'm just hoping for an extended and updated version.