History

In this course, Dr David Smith (University of Cambridge) explores the reign of Charles I of England. The course begins by thinking about Charles’ reputation among modern historians, before considering his reign in four parts: his early life and...

In this course, Dr David Smith (University of Cambridge) explores the reign of James I of England (also James VI of Scotland). The course begins by thinking about James’ reputation among modern historians, before considering his reign in four...

In this course, we explore the reigns of three kings of England, and one queen: Charles II, James II, and William and Mary. Beginning with the Restoration of Charles II in 1660, we begin by exploring in some detail Charles’...

In this course, Professor Mike Braddick (University of Sheffield) explores the English Civil War (1642-51) through the lens of radical and revolution. We begin by thinking about the causes of the war in England, focusing in particular on why the...

In this course, Dr David Smith (University of Cambridge) explores the life of Oliver Cromwell during the period when he was Lord Protector, from 1653-1658. We begin by thinking about the creation of the Protectorate in 1653, focusing in particular...

In this course, Professor John Morrill (University of Cambridge) examines one of the most extraordinary events in British political history: the execution of the king, Charles I, in January 1649. We begin in the first module by thinking about who...

In this course, Professor John Morrill (University of Cambridge) examines the life of Oliver Cromwell from obscure beginnings in Cambridgeshire to his election as Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland in 1653. In the ...

In this course, Professor John Morrill (University of Cambridge) thinks about the British Civil Wars, the intertwined series of conflicts that ravaged England, Ireland and Scotland in the mid-17th century. In the first two modules, we think about...

In this course, Professor Michael Braddick (University of Sheffield) explores the origins of the British Empire between 1500-1700. In the first module, we provide some thoughts on how we as historians can best approach such a complex historical...

In this course, Dr Clare Jackson (University of Cambridge) explores the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. We start by taking a look at the geopolitical and religious challenges that accompanied James I and VI's accession to the English throne. We'll then...