England has a rich and fascinating history that has shaped the world in countless ways. From ancient monarchies and pivotal wars to cultural transformations and revolutionary scientific discoveries, the history of England is a journey filled with intrigue, drama, and remarkable figures. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to learn more about England, these Top 10 Best Books on England History are essential reads. Each book offers a unique perspective on a significant part of England’s past, giving you a well-rounded understanding of its history.
John Parker
John Parker is a historian specializing in English and European history. With over 15 years of experience, he has authored numerous articles and books that delve into England’s most pivotal moments. His writing is both informative and engaging, bringing the past to life.
The Best England History Books
10. The Five: The Untold Lives of the Women Killed by Jack the Ripper
Author: Hallie Rubenhold
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.4 out of 5 stars, 10,123 reviews)
The Five is a groundbreaking book that focuses not on the notorious Jack the Ripper but on the lives of the women he murdered. Hallie Rubenhold tells the real stories of these women, giving them a voice and challenging the myths surrounding their lives.
Why We Choose It: This book provides a fresh perspective on a well-known chapter of England’s history, focusing on the victims rather than the criminal.
Fun Fact: Hallie Rubenhold won the 2019 Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction for this book.
Category: England History
9. Henry V: The Astonishing Triumph of England’s Greatest Warrior King
Author: Dan Jones
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5 out of 5 stars, 2 reviews)
This compelling biography of Henry V sheds light on one of England’s most iconic warrior kings. Dan Jones explores Henry’s leadership during the Hundred Years’ War and the Battle of Agincourt, highlighting his tactical genius and determination.
Why You’ll Love It: Jones brings Henry V’s military prowess and political acumen to life, making it a thrilling read for anyone interested in England’s medieval history.
Fun Fact: The famous speech “Once more unto the breach, dear friends!” from Shakespeare’s Henry V is inspired by the Battle of Agincourt.
Category: England History
8. The Anglo-Saxons: A History of the Beginnings of England: 400 – 1066
Author: Marc Morris
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6 out of 5 stars, 2,945 reviews)
The Anglo-Saxons by Marc Morris offers a detailed look at the early history of England, from the fall of Roman Britain to the Norman Conquest. Morris expertly weaves together political, social, and military history to give readers a complete picture of this formative period.
Why We Choose It: It’s an accessible yet comprehensive guide to England’s early history, ideal for both casual readers and history enthusiasts.
Fun Fact: The term “Anglo-Saxon” comes from the fusion of the Angles and the Saxons, two Germanic tribes that settled in England after the fall of the Roman Empire.
Category: England History
7. Ragnar Lothbrok and a History of the Vikings: Viking Warriors Including Rollo, Norsemen, Norse Mythology, Quests in America, England, France, Scotland, Ireland, and Russia
Author: Noah Brown
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3 out of 5 stars, 1,128 reviews)
Noah Brown explores the legendary Viking warrior Ragnar Lothbrok and his impact on England’s history. From Norse mythology to the Viking invasions of England, this book takes a closer look at the Viking influence in shaping early England.
Why You’ll Love It: If you’re interested in Viking history and how they influenced England, this book offers a detailed and engaging account.
Fun Fact: Ragnar Lothbrok’s sons, according to legend, led the Great Heathen Army that invaded England in 865 AD.
Category: England History
6. The Jewel House: Elizabethan London and the Scientific Revolution
Author: Deborah Harkness
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3 out of 5 stars, 283 reviews)
Deborah Harkness’s The Jewel House takes readers back to Elizabethan London, exploring how scientific discoveries were shaping the future of England and Europe. Harkness brings to life the everyday scientists who worked in alchemy, astronomy, and medicine.
Why We Choose It: This book reveals the scientific undercurrents of one of England’s most culturally vibrant eras.
Fun Fact: Harkness is also known for her All Souls Trilogy, a fictional series inspired by her deep knowledge of history.
Category: England History
5. Killing England: The Brutal Struggle for American Independence
Author: Bill O’Reilly
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7 out of 5 stars, 12,999 reviews)
Bill O’Reilly’s Killing England offers a gripping account of the American Revolution from the perspective of England and its brutal attempts to maintain control over the American colonies. This book provides a dual perspective, exploring the tension between England and the emerging United States.
Why You’ll Love It: It offers a dynamic look at the revolutionary period from an English perspective, showing how the conflict shaped modern England.
Fun Fact: Despite being about American independence, this book gives crucial insights into England’s military and political struggles during the war.
Category: England History
4. A Distant Mirror: The Calamitous 14th Century
Author: Barbara W. Tuchman
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6 out of 5 stars, 2,599 reviews)
Barbara W. Tuchman’s A Distant Mirror paints a vivid portrait of the 14th century, an era of political chaos, plagues, and social upheavals. Tuchman takes a broad approach, connecting the events of this tumultuous century to the later development of England and Europe.
Why We Choose It: Tuchman masterfully blends academic insight with storytelling, making medieval history engaging and relevant.
Fun Fact: The book’s title refers to how the past often serves as a reflection of the present, an idea Tuchman emphasizes throughout.
Category: England History
3. The Plantagenets: The Warrior Kings and Queens Who Made England
Author: Dan Jones
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6 out of 5 stars, 6,392 reviews)
Dan Jones’s The Plantagenets delves into the dynasty that laid the foundations for modern England. From Henry II to Richard the Lionheart, this book details the lives of England’s warrior monarchs and their influence on the country.
Why You’ll Love It: Jones’s narrative style makes history come alive, especially for those fascinated by royal intrigue and warfare.
Fun Fact: The Plantagenet dynasty ruled England for over 300 years, making it one of the longest-reigning royal families in European history.
Category: England History
2. The Time Traveler’s Guide to Medieval England: A Handbook for Visitors to the Fourteenth Century
Author: Ian Mortimer
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5 out of 5 stars, 3,410 reviews)
The Time Traveler’s Guide is an imaginative yet historically accurate look at medieval England. Mortimer acts as a tour guide, taking readers through everyday life in the 14th century, from the markets to the courtrooms.
Why We Choose It: Mortimer’s unique approach makes history feel personal and relatable, perfect for anyone curious about medieval England.
Fun Fact: Mortimer’s book is written like a travel guide, giving readers an immersive experience of what it would be like to live in the 1300s.
Category: England History
1. The Norman Conquest: The Battle of Hastings and the Fall of Anglo-Saxon England
Author: Marc Morris
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.4 out of 5 stars, 3,234 reviews)
In this riveting account of the Norman invasion, Marc Morris explains how the Battle of Hastings in 1066 forever changed the landscape of England. The book is a detailed examination of the events leading to the fall of Anglo-Saxon England and the rise of Norman rule.
Why You’ll Love It: Morris’s thorough research and engaging writing style make this a must-read for anyone interested in one of England’s most pivotal moments.
Fun Fact: The Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the Norman Conquest, is one of the most famous artifacts from this period.
Category: England History
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