Jonathan Healey Knihy

The first major regional study of poverty and its relief in the seventeenth century: the first century of welfare.

'This is a wonderful book, exhaustively researched, vigorously argued and teeming with the furious joy of seventeenth-century life' THE TIMES'A brilliant, bloody account of England's most dramatic century . . . Thrilling' TELEGRAPH'The most entertaining general history of seventeenth-century England I have read' TOM HOLLANDThe seventeenth century began as the English found themselves ruled by a Scotsman, and ended in the shadow of a Dutch invasion. Midway through, society collapsed into a civil war, followed by army coup and regicide. For a short time - for the only time in history - England was a republic. In coffee shops and alehouses, ordinary people fizzed with ideas that were angry, populist and almost impossible to control.Despite these radical changes, few today fully understand the story of this revolutionary age. Leaders like Oliver Cromwell, Charles II and William of Orange have been reduced to caricatures, while major turning points like the Civil War and the Glorious Revolution are shrouded in myth. Yet, as Jonathan Healey argues, the period has never been more relevant. From raw politics to religious divisions, civil wars to witch trials, plague to press freedoms, The Blazing World tells the story of this strange but fascinating century in exuberant, panoramic detail.

An essential guide to exploring the best wines from southern France, with wine tours of both the most popular and lesser-known regions, and details of top producers and local tourist attractions. There is expert advice on how to choose the top wines and transport them home safely, and useful tips on local culture, eating out, where to stay, and the best ways of traveling around.

Set against the backdrop of 1641 England, the narrative explores the tension between King Charles I's desire for absolute power and the burgeoning political awakening among the populace. As revolutionary ideas take root and Ireland erupts in revolt, Charles's decision to confront Parliament ignites a series of events leading to civil war. Jonathan Healey's meticulous research captures the societal turmoil and the radical movements of the time, painting a vivid picture of a nation on the brink of transformation amidst chaos and conflict.