The History of England Magazine
Every month we present new feature articles relating to the history of this green and pleasant land. From ancient battlefields to famous people, hangings to national celebrations, we’ve got something to interest everyone.
You may also be interested in our History of Britain section covering the period from the Act of Union during Queen Anne‘s reign to the modern day.
Kings of Northumbria
Monarchs of Northumbria. Discover the story of the kings of Northumbria from Oswiu ( c. 654 – c. 670 AD ) to Ælla ( c. 862 – c. 867) who, according to the Norse sagas, captured the legendary Swedish-Danish Viking king Ragnar Lodbrok (Lothbrok) and put him to death in a pit of snakes…
What did Catherine Howard Look Like?
Henry VIII is famous for his six wives. But do we know what they looked like? The actual likeness of Catherine Howard, wife number 5, is elusive…
Battle Of Cartagena de Indias: The Victory That Never Was
The attack on Spanish port of Cartagena during the War of Jenkin’s Ear was a total catastrophe for Britain. The death of the commander of the fleet early in the campaign left two inexperienced officers squabbling over tactics…
The Life and Work of Christopher Marlowe
Christopher ‘Kit’ Marlowe. Iconic poet and playwright. Heretic, hedonist, and likely a spy for Queen Elizabeth I. His death – stabbed in a bar brawl, allegedly over a bill, aged just 29 – is still viewed with suspicion today. Was it actually an assassination?
King Aethelbert
Aethelbert (Aethelberht) reigned for just five years from 860 until his death in 865. He united Kent and Wessex under his rule.
King Aethelbald
The eldest surviving son of Aethelwulf, Aethelbald reigned for just five years. Perhaps the most noteworthy event of his reign was his marriage to his father’s widow, the Carolingian princess Judith, daughter of King Charles the Bald.
Amphitheatres and Gladiators in Roman Britain
Gladiators were professional fighters who fought in the amphitheatres of the Roman Empire. They were usually slaves, former slaves or condemned prisoners who volunteered to fight for fame, riches…and often their lives.
King Aethelred I
The third of the Wessex brothers, Aethelred’s reign (866-871) was dominated by the near constant struggle against the Danes. He would be succeeded by his famous brother, Alfred.
