The Kings and Queens of England : lives and reigns from the House of Wessex to the House of Windsor

Historians and broadcasters Peter Snow and Ann MacMillan introduce the most powerful men and women in English, and later British, society. Opening with the reign of King Alfred, during which the foundations of the nation were laid, The Kings and Queens of England introduces the monarchs who have ruled through personal and political strife, triumph, war and peacetime. Snow and MacMillan offer a unique insight into the waxing and waning fortunes of these formidable rulers, from those such as devious King John who ruled with cruelty and fabled warrior-king William the Conqueror, to our own Elizabeth II, admired for her diplomacy and integrity while presiding over turbulent times. This is the story of the evolution of modern civilization, told through the lens of those who have ruled it. "Historians and broadcasters Peter Snow and Ann MacMillan tell the real stories of the most powerful men and women in British history. Kings & Queens explores the lives, loves, triumphs and disasters of a monarchy that is the envy of the world. Snow and MacMillan offer a unique insight into those born to rule, whether villains or heroes - from cruel King John and warrior-king Edward III, to our own Elizabeth II: dutiful, discreet and the longest-reigning queen in the world. This is the story of modern civilization, through the lens of those who have ruled."--Amazon.com Historians and broadcasters Peter Snow and Ann MacMillan tell the real stories of the most powerful men and women in British history.Updated for the 2023 coronation, Kings & Queens explores the lives, loves, triumphs and disasters of a monarchy that is the envy of the world. Snow and MacMillan offer a unique insight into those born to rule, whether villains or heroes – from cruel King John and warrior-king Edward III, to our newest monarch, King Charles III.This is the story of modern civilization through the lens of those who have ruled. Opening with the reign of King Alfred, during which the foundations of the nation were laid, this book introduces the monarchs who have ruled through personal and political strife, triumph, war and peacetime. This is the story of modern civilization.