France’s Long March Against Racism
In 1983 the March for Equality and Against Racism from Marseille to Paris marked the coming of age of a new French generation.
Political
‘The Hundred Years War Vol 5’ by Jonathan Sumption review
The Hundred Years War Vol 5: Triumph and Illusion by Jonathan Sumption charts the English downfall and France’s triumph to bring the epic five-volume history to its conclusion.
Sokol: An Exercise in Czech Nation-Building
In the late 19th century a new trend captured the Czech people –gymnastics. But sokol was more than just exercise: a healthy body was a healthy nation and the Czechs wanted independence.
The 50 Years that Made America
Fifty years separate the Boston Tea Party and the Monroe Doctrine. How did a group of British colonies become a self-proclaimed protector of continents within half a century?
Power and Populism in Ancient Greek Courts
In ancient Greece the ‘least dangerous’ branch of government – the courts – wielded serious political power.
‘The Weimar Years’ by Frank McDonough review
The Weimar Years: Rise and Fall 1918-1933 by Frank McDonough is a lucid overview of Germany’s tumultuous interwar years.
Why Is the United States Hostile to Socialism?
The question asked by Werner Sombart in 1906 grew in relevance as the 20th century progressed. Why are leftist politics anathema to Washington – both at home and abroad?
How to Leave the House of Lords
Members of the House of Lords are traditionally prohibited from giving up their seats. What if a move to the Commons becomes a political necessity?
What Killed Kennedy?
Was it the mob? A coup? Cuban dissidents? War hawks? 60 years after the assassination of John F. Kennedy, the theories are still debated. Do any of them hold up?
The Beer Hall Putsch: What Hitler Learnt
In the aftermath of the Munich Beer Hall Putsch of November 1923, Hitler was in prison and the Nazi Party banned. But its failure taught him valuable lessons.