Northerners: A History, from the Ice Age to the Present Day

The bestselling history of the North of England as told through the lives of its inhabitants, "Northerners" is a work of unrivalled scale and ambition. It explores the dramatic events that created the north, from migration to invasions and battles, and how the people of the north have shaped Britain and the world in unexpected ways. The book also celebrates the contributions of northern writers, activists, artists, and comedians, and how the past echoes down the centuries.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 25 May 2023
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

The North of England's history is presented in this outstanding work of history, which has been named the Best History Book of the Year by Waterstones. The lives of the people who live there serve as the lens through which the narrative is told, providing a rich and nuanced perspective on the region's past.

The book is a remarkable achievement in terms of both scope and ambition. It spans a vast period of time, from the earliest recorded human settlements to the present day, and covers a wide range of topics, including migration, invasions, battles, and cultural and economic transformations. The author has done an incredible job of bringing the past to life, using vivid descriptions and compelling anecdotes to bring the reader into the world of the North.

One of the most striking aspects of the book is its ability to demonstrate how the people of the North have played a significant role in shaping both Britain and the world. From the Roman emperors who ruled from York to the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Northumbria, which was a center of culture and intellectual excellence, the North has been a hub of political and cultural activity for centuries. The book also highlights the contributions of other groups, such as Neanderthals, Vikings, Central European Jews, African-Caribbeans, and South Asians, who have all left their mark on the region.

Northern writers, activists, artists, and comedians are celebrated worldwide, from the famous poets Wordsworth, the Brontes, and Gaskell to the iconic painters LS Lowry, Emmeline Pankhurst, and Peter Kay. The North has also produced some of the most influential musicians in history, from the Beatles to Britpop.

The book also explores how the past echoes down the centuries, with examples such as the devastation of factory and pit closures in the 1980s, which recalled the trauma of William the Conqueror's Harrying of the North. This demonstrates the author's ability to connect the past with the present in a meaningful and relevant way.

In conclusion, Northerners is an outstanding work of history that provides a comprehensive and engaging account of the North of England's past. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the region's history, culture, and people. The book's scale, ambition, and depth of research make it a valuable contribution to the field of history, and it will undoubtedly inspire and inform future generations.

Weight: 310g
Dimension: 198 x 129 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008471231