European History Articles

Where to begin in a discussion of European history? So much has taken place on the continent, where we can trace back the culture and influence of the Western World.

Whether your interest is piqued by ancient, medieval, or modern European history, we’ve got you covered. Fascinated by the Roman empire? Discover the worst emperors to have ruled over it, the Great Fire of Rome that nearly destroyed the city, and how the Sack of Rome at the hands of mercenaries ushered in a new era. Can’t get enough of the medieval period? It’s not all dragons and elves here; rather, we’re doing a deep dive into famous rebellions (such as the Peasants’ Revolt and the Germans Peasants’ War), the bloody Crusades, and the real historical origins of the mythical wizard Merlin.

Finally, we reach modern European history. Prepare to be surprised by the tidbits you’ll learn about the Napoleonic Wars, the French Revolution, and other major events from the early modern period. Perhaps you’re curious about legendary historical figures. From Winston Churchill quotes to Marie Antoinette’s downfall, there’s no shortage of knowledge about influential European people in our archives.

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6 Historical Political Cartoons That Capture the Hopes and Fears of the Past

These satirical drawings reveal the debates that dominated bygone eras.

A Controversial Attack on Mers-el-Kébir Heightened WWII Tensions

The French fleet posed a difficult problem for British officials.

How the Black Death Led to the Peasants' Revolt

England’s 1381 uprising was fueled by unrest in the aftermath of a pandemic.

10 Illuminating Books About the Victorian Era

From crime and punishment to technological advancements and beyond.

How the Assassination of Franz Ferdinand Sparked World War I

The Archduke was murdered by a Yugoslav nationalist, setting off an explosive chain of events.

The Sack of Rome Signaled the End of the High Renaissance...

... and a permanent split between Catholicism and budding Protestant religions.

Peer Inside the Mysterious Paris Catacombs

These underground tunnels house the remains of over six million people.

A Muddle in Italy Netted the Allied Forces a Tarnished Win at the Battle of Anzio

After months of conflict, Allied forces forced German troops to retreat from Rome on June 5, 1944.

A Secret Agent Infiltrates a 19th-Century Spy Network in Hold Fast

This new historical fiction novel is set during the tumult of the Napoleonic Wars.

[CLOSED] GIVEAWAY: Win a Swashbuckling Novel Set During the Napoleonic Wars

We’re giving away 10 copies of Hold Fast, a new historical fiction book.

The War of Spanish Succession Subsumed an Entire Continent

The balance of power in Europe was at stake throughout the 13-year conflict.

How Trota of Salerno, 12th-Century Female Gynecologist, Disappeared from History

The historical reputation of Trota through the years shows how the mores of a current society can restrict contemporary understanding of a figure from the past.

Enter the Georgian Era

Discover the figures, culture, and technology that made the Georgian Era a vibrant time of change for an empire.

[CLOSED] GIVEAWAY: Win A Man at Arms by Steven Pressfield

This immersive new historical fiction novel explores the ancient world.

Schoolteacher Louise Thuliez Became a Key Resistance Fighter in 2 World Wars

Driven to help, Louise Thuliez aided underground networks in France despite facing an all-too-real threat of execution.