A History of the English-Speaking Peoples, Vol. 1: The Birth of Britain

Amazing. Winston Churchill is a genius as a writer (how can one person be such a great leader, AND also be one of the best writers to ever live?). Just an absolute pleasure to read; he had the ability to express ideas in entertaining and interesting and funny ways, without ever trying to be "clever". He tells the history as a fascinating story, never with an agenda.

Winston S. Churchill was not just a remarkable and powerful statesman and orator, but, it turns out, was also a remarkable and powerful writer. The language here is beautiful without being affected, comprehensive and informative without being lugubrios. His task is herculean (let's face it, he started at the very beginning), yet he manages to maintain the reader's interest with an even and logical pace. Admittedly, his personal and political biases occasionally show through, although without overwhelming the historical facts. An excellent series for students and history buffs alike.

I read this series a number of years back. Sir Winston Churchill put together a fascinating guide to the development of British civilization, ranging from the Roman conquest of Britain all the way into the dawn of the 20th century. It is clear from the reading that Churchill was quite proud of his British heritage. And why not? The British managed to rule nearly every corner of the globe and to have virtual command of the global economy. Churchill presented this as a logical progression from England's national awakening through such pivotal events as the Reformation and the Glorious Revolution. Also noteworthy is his chronicle of "the Great Democracies" and their role in spreading British civilization. While this book will annoy the PC crowd, I argue that it is a classic work on the rise of a great and enduring civilization.

Very interesting overview of the history of England, including the Roman and Norman conquests up to Richard III.

Winston Churchill will be remembered as the most heroic figure of the 20th Century. He is also one of history's greatest historians. His decision to write the history of peoples by a particular language was brilliant, and gave a broad outline to why we think the way we do. If you're going to the desert, a desert island, or one of Mars' moons, this is one of the few books you should pack.