The Bristorian introduces The Past Today, a unique series presenting you with the headlines of today’s past.
The series is made up of short, sharp, yet impactful 500 word pieces, designed to bring some intrigue and entertainment to your day.
The Hungarian Uprising and the Soviet Invasion of Hungary
On the Past Today, The Bristorian looks at the causes and legacy of the Hungarian Uprising that took place in 1956. On this day, Soviet forces would enter Hungary from neighbouring states to quell the protests and fighting occurring in the capital. The Uprising would eventually end soon after the superior forces arrived.
The Aberfan Disaster
On this day 56 years ago the infamous British mining disaster happened at Aberfan, Wales. The resulting landslide would engulf the local primary school and parts of the village below, raising important questions regarding industry, monarchy and class in the 1960s UK. Lewis explores its legacy, and how perceptions of disaster have changed in the years following…
The End of the Chinese Long March
In 1934, the Red Army of the Communist Party of China (CPC) marched across China in retreat during what would be the end of the Chinese Civil War. On October 19th, 1935, the Red Army ended its journey and now sought to consolidate and strengthen themselves.
The Death of Karl Marx
Today, on the 139th death anniversary of Karl Marx, the Bristorian explores the impact of one of the most consequential historical figures of all time.
The Death of Henry VIII
Henry VIII, the six-wives wonder may be six feet under, but he’s certainly not been forgotten. The Bristorian reflects on the life of one of the most famous monarchs in history.
The Assassination of John Lennon
John Lennon is perhaps the most influential figure ever in British music. So on the 41st anniversary of his tragic assassination, The Bristorian seeks to recover his legacy.
Nancy Astor: The First Serving Female MP
102 years ago today, Nancy Astor became the first woman to be elected to the House of Commons. In this piece, The Bristorian explores the life of a pioneering force within British democracy.
Darwin Publishes ‘On the Origin of Species’
Very few works have transcended the passage of time as far as Charles Darwin’s ‘On the Origin of Species’, so on its 162nd anniversary, The Bristorian explores the origins of this seminal work.
The Assassination of John F. Kennedy
58 years ago, the 35th President of the United States was assassinated in Dallas, Texas; the Bristorian reflects on the life and death of one of the most popular presidents in history.
Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address
Lincoln proclaimed that the Civil War had given “a new birth of freedom” to Americans – but what, exactly, did this declaration of freedom entail?
Armistice Day
103 years on from Armistice Day, The Bristorian asks its readers to step back and remember the sacrifice of the fallen.
The Gunpowder Plot
The Bristorian begins its ‘The Past Today’ series with the notorious Gunpowder Plot, wishing its readers a happy Guy Fawkes Day.