When General Francisco Franco died on 20 November 1975 – 39 years after the start of the brutal civil war that brought him to power – the prospect of a bloodless transition to democracy in Spain appea

Idi Amin is a historical figure synonymous with evil. Branded ‘Africa’s Hitler’ in newspaper headlines and immortalised in lurid books and documentaries detailing his regime’s many atrocities, Uganda’

Middleland: Dispatches from the Borders Rory Stewart (Jonathan ...

In the 21st century, we have moved into an era of performative covert action. Leaders such as Vladimir Putin have used the shadow of death to coerce their enemies overseas and to reinforce their warri

I enjoyed reading the interesting article by Caitlin Ellis on the rivals for the throne in 1066 (October). In particular, it was fascinating to read about Edgar Ætheling’s claim, which was surely the

Step away from the bright lights and bustle and explore the capital’s dark side