I believe that history is one of the most important disciplines we can ever study. The knowledge of the past that it can provide is not just endlessly interesting, but can help us to lead productive and worthwhile lives in the present.

History helps us look at things from all angles, enabling us to avoid extreme and incautious positions – things are rarely black and white, a lesson many people in public life struggle to learn. Examining historical events also helps us to explore the consequence of decisions, making us more logical and coherent thinkers who are less likely to fall into unforeseen traps in the future.

But most all, history teaches us to have complete respect for evidence: ask people to back their points up before they try and influence you to do something; be cautious about the unsupported claims of politicians, pundits or newspapers; but once the evidence backs you up, be confident in your decision making and life choices.

All the best,

Dr Graham Birrell