The History Magazine

The right of every women to propose on 29th February each leap year goes back hundreds of years when the leap year day had no recognition in English law (the day was ‘leapt over’ and ignored, hence the term ‘leap year’).

View our list of historic events that occurred in February.

Famous people born throughout history in February…

The Folklore Year – traditional folklore and culture of Britain, events taking place every year in February

Poor young Lady Jane Grey is famous for having the shortest reign in England’s history… just nine days.

The story of Pancake Day and how Shrove Tuesday is celebrated in Britain.

Mary, Queen of Scots is perhaps the best known figure in Scotland’s history. Her life provided tragedy and romance, more dramatic than any legend.

Whilst there are many Britons who would struggle to recall a ten shilling note and its value today (for the record, it is 50p in today’s money!), in comparison to the rest of the world, Britain lagged behind in the decimalisation stakes.