The Great Turning Points in British History

The 20 Events That Made The Nation – Book Review

Apr 19, 2009

Twenty leading historians give their views on which year was the most significant in Britain's history, from the years 1000 to 2000.

The Great Turning Points in British History is the result of BBC History Magazine asking twenty eminent historians to consider which year was the most significant in British history. Each historian explains his or her choice, with fascinating and thought-provoking results.

Turning Points in British Medieval History

The events chosen by separate medieval historians are: 1016, the Danish conquest of England; 1066, the Norman Conquest; 1141 Stephen and Matilda’s civil war; 1171 Henry II invades Ireland; 1215 Magna Carta; 1295 Edward I goes on the warpath; 1348, the Black Death; 1381, the Peasant’s Revolt; 1415 Henry V at Agincourt; 1483 Richard III snatches the crown.

After each essay, the authors also list a number of other key dates from the half century from which they chose their turning points. These dates with their accompanying short explanations are helpful both for putting the turning point into context and for also offering alternative turning points.

Turning Points in Sixteenth, Seventeenth and Eighteenth Century British History

The following events were chosen by historians for the sixteenth, seventeenth and eighteenth centuries: 1534, Henry VIII tries to take control of Britain; 1588, the Armada is repelled; 1638, the Scots revolt against Charles I; 1662 Charles II pays a heavy price for his Restoration; 1745, the Jacobites rebel; 1776, America declares independence.

These are a fascinating set of essays, covering Britain from the rule of Henry VIII, moving into more international history and Britain’s growing empire. From an all-powerful Tudor king, through the days of the Reformation to the Restoration, Britain changed hugely during these turbulent three centuries.

Turning Points in Nineteenth and Twentieth Century British History

The turning points selected for the book’s final two centuries are as follows: 1832, the Reform Bill is passed; 1851, the Great Exhibition; 1916 The Somme; 1956, Suez and the dying days of the empire.

These essays cover Britain’s growing power as an empire, the damage done to the empire by two world wars and the country’s recovery from years of war and deprivation.

Summary

The Great Turning Points in British History is a fascinating overview of 1,000 years of exciting and tumultuous history. The historians featured are clearly passionate about their chosen subjects and transfer this excitement to the reader.

The book would make an excellent subject for a book group of history club discussion, as there is so much to think about and debate and the highlighted years at the end of each chapter provide further material for debate. Each turning point is, after all, the opinion of one person and whether the reader agrees or disagrees with each choice, he or she will be left thinking about the book long after it has been finished.

A well-written, engaging and thought-provoking look at Britain’s history, from the medieval era through to modern history, with the material presented in a fresh and innovative manner.

Publication details

The copyright of the article The Great Turning Points in British History in UK/Irish History is owned by Rachel Bellerby. Permission to republish The Great Turning Points in British History in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.