21st Century

Expert history articles and analysis about the global events of the 21st century…

Anna Whitelock looks back on some key moments that made the historical headlines in 2021

The state of history in 2021

HEX_Voices_AnnaWhitelock

General History

Anna Whitelock's Talking Points Friends or enemies?

Marjoleine_Kars

Untold story of a slave rebellion wins the 2021 Cundill History Prize

Howard Carter and another man beside the tomb of Tutankhamun

Anniversaries, exhibitions, history TV & film: what to expect from 2022

George Makari examines the history of xenophobia, and the surprising ways in which the term has evolved since the 19th century. (Image by Getty Images)

Stranger danger? Xenophobia’s unexpected history

Islam Issa reveals how terrorists have twisted Shakespeare’s life and work to suit their own ends over the centuries. (Image by Getty Images)

How Shakespeare inspired terrorists

AnneBoleyn-Diana

8 historical reasons behind Anne Boleyn’s appearance in Princess Diana film Spencer

Kristen Stewart as Diana, Princess of Wales

“It doesn’t fall into the trap of making Diana a saint”: a historian’s review of Spencer

Black and white image of several African men pushing two French missionaries in a sort of chair with wheels.

Think piece Why history must take a stance

Greg Jenner talks about his latest book, Ask A Historian, which tackles 50 burning questions that people have about the past. (Image by Fran Monks for BBC History Magazine)

What would you ask a historian?

HEX_Voices_Michael Wood

Michael Wood on Afghanistan “A new world is emerging, reviving older connections”

A panel of expert historians discuss how history can help make sense of current events in Afghanistan. (Image by Getty Images)

Afghanistan: a history of instability

Pod Kyle Harper WL

Plagues of our past

Women protest in London following the death of Sarah Everard, 2021

Walking a dangerous road: women’s safety on the streets

HEX_Voices_AnnaWhitelock

Anna Whitelock's Talking Points Foundational stories