A Traveller's History of England

This book gives a comprehensive and enjoyable survey of England's past from prehistory right through to the present. All the major periods of English history are dealt with, including the Roman occupation, the invasions of the Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, and Normans, and the power struggles of the medieval kings. In the 20th century the Empire was transformed into the Commonwealth; two victorious, but costly, World Wars were fought; the Welfare State was established; and membership in the European Community was finally achieved.

"A complete history of England from its earliest times right up to the present day printed in one volume. It is written in a lively and literate style that pinpoints all the essentials of English history." "It begins with the Old Stone Age and finishes with Britain's continued military action in Iraq. In between, all the major periods are fully described, including the Roman Saxons, Vikings, and Normans, and the colorful power struggles of the medieval kings and queens. The Reformation, the Renaissance and the Civil War are discussed, as well as the consequences of the Industrial Revolution and urbanism, and the establishment of an Empire which encompassed a quarter of the human race. In the twentieth century the Empire was transformed into the Commonwealth, two victorious but costly World Wars have been fought, the Welfare State was established, and England became a part of the European Community." Illustrated with historical maps and line drawings, A Traveller's History of England offers insight into the country's past and present and into the English character and culture. An invaluable book for all those who want to know more about a nation whose impact upon the rest of the world has been profound.

Library Journal

Travelers opening this book upon boarding a flight to London could, by the time they reach their destination, span the history of England from the days of the hunter-gatherers to Thatcher's resignation. This compact volume, written by a British archaeologist and historian, is amazingly concise yet delivers a solid, comprehensive and entertaining overview of England's history. Lists of rulers, prime ministers, major battles, historical buildings, a chronology of major events, and a short bibliography are also provided. A caveat: unlike Philip Crowl's The Intelligent Traveller's Guide to Historic Britain ( LJ 2/1/83), which combines history with travel information supplemented with a detailed gazetteer, the sole emphasis here is history. For those who want a refresher course in English history, this is a delightful source.-- Marlene M. Kuhl, Baltimore Cty. P.L.