This is the definitive concise account of our remarkable past. Which battle was fought 'For England, Harry and St George'? Who demanded to be painted 'warts and all'? What — and when — was the Battle of the Bulge? In A Short History of England, bestselling author Simon Jenkins answers all these questions — and many more — as he tells the tumultuous story of a fascinating nation. From the invaders of the dark ages to today's coalition, via the Tudors, the Stuarts and two world wars, Jenkins weaves together a gripping narrative with all the most important and interesting dates in his own inimitable style. Until now there has been no short history of England covering all significant event themes and individuals: this bestselling book, published in association with the National Trust, will be the standard work for years to come.