What is History, Etc.?

It’s a community powered by subscribers - where we talk and think about history and the world around us. There are essays, Q&As, open discussions, reviews, podcast-style audio releases, competitions and giveaways. I write mostly about the medieval world, but will cover wherever seems most interesting to my subscribers. The most important thing is that everyone here loves history, and wants to talk about it.

Why did I create it?

I’ve been writing about history for more than half my life. I believe it’s the greatest subject there is. Maybe you do too. How could it not be, when our playground is the sum total of all human deeds and achievements?

For most of my career I’ve only been able to publish my historical writing once a year or so - in my books. I love writing books and I won’t be stopping any time soon. But I have been wanting a space where I can communicate faster and more regularly with likeminded people about history, its questions and its mysteries, and its place in the world today.

What am I signing up for?

Every week you’ll receive at least one email from me. It might be a short essay, a book review, notes on a museum exhibition, thoughts about history in the news, a piece of new historical research or even a short historical story.

Do I have to pay a subscription fee?

Only if you want to. I understand times aren’t the easiest. There’ll be free content every week for readers who just want to check in now and again.

That said, I want to make this a really busy and lively history community, so for those who want to get more involved there’s the option to pay a small monthly fee for exclusive, extra content.

That will include voice notes, community discussions, Q&A sessions with me, bonus material relating to the free weekly posts, exclusive extracts from my books, competitions to win signed books by me and other historians, interviews with other writers, and much more.

I charge £5 a month (or £50 a year) for that level of access - that’s the minimum charge Substack will allow. And to say thank you, I’ll offer everyone who signs up a free signed postcard.

Of course, if you’re after a truly VIP experience, you can opt for Gold Card membership. If you do that, I will send you the postcard, Zoom you to say thanks, and send you a dedicated copy of every book I write while you’re a member.

What do I do now?

Subscribe at the level that suits you best! And please spread the word. Substack is about community, and history is about discussion and debate. The more of us there are, the more powerful we become. And the more fun we’ll have.

To find out more about the company that provides the tech for this newsletter, visit Substack.com.