CHRISTMAS 2020

When historians of the future come to write about the early 21st century, I expect they’ll devote quite a few pages to 2020. A year that began with forest fires in Australia and the ongoing rumble of Brexit negotiations has since been dominated by the coronavirus pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement. But what do today’s historians make of all this? To find out, we’ve convened a panel of experts to examine the historical underpinnings and significance of these and other major events of the past 12 months. Turn to page 50 for that, and do please write in to let us know your thoughts.

One historical parallel frequently cited in regard to Covid-19 is how Britain coped during the Blitz. And we shouldn’t be surprised to see this comparison being made, as the Second World War continues to be the defining event in modern British history. In Alec Ryrie’s Think Piece this month, he argues that the war has even replaced Christianity as our new national religion – a role for which the conflict is not entirely well-suited. You’ll find his article on page 25.

There’s plenty of more escapist history this month as well, from our cover feature on Richard III’s radical parliament to snapshots of life in the Roman army and the curious cravings of pregnant women in the early modern period. Plus, as it’s the Christmas issue, look out for our Christmas quiz and Books of the Year round-up.

I hope you have an enjoyable Christmas break, and I look forward to continuing the historical journey with you in 2021.