A Short History of Europe

Full of the good judgements one might hope for from such a sensible and readable commentator, and they alone are worth perusing for pleasure and food for thought' Michael Wood, New Statesman *** 'Europe's diversity and military supremacy, its dynamism and economic energy, its scientific prowess and cultural creativity give it a special place in human history. Even today, in a period of relative decline, it remains a magnet to refugees, migrants, scholars and travellers from across the world... For all its oppressions, cruelties and ongoing mistakes, I see it as a remarkable corner of the globe.' *** Praise for England's Thousand Best Houses 'Any passably cultured inhabitant of the British Isles should ask for, say, three or four copies of this book for Christmas...I can imagine no better companion on a voyage across England.' Max Hastings, Daily Telegraph.