From the invaders of the Dark Ages to the aftermath of the Coalition, one of Britain's most respected journalists, Simon Jenkins, weaves a compelling narrative with all the key and most interesting facts in a book that is both stylish and authoritative. A Short History of England illuminates all the key figures and events, bringing them together in an insightful and engaging account of the birth of the country, its rise to global significance, and then partial eclipse. There have been long synoptic histories of England, but until now, there has been no standard short work that covers all significant events, themes, and figures. Now updated to reflect the rapid progress of recent events and beautifully illustrated, this majestic history will be the standard work for years to come.

Simon Jenkins is the author of the bestsellers "England's Thousand Best Churches" and "England's Thousand Best Houses," former editor of The Times and Evening Standard, and a columnist for The Guardian. He is also the chairman of the National Trust.