Columns / Lessons in History


Fascism in British politics

Despite the prominence of Nick Griffin of the BNP this week, the English, thankfully, have never taken well to fascism and the ridiculous figures who support it, writes Michael Stuchbery.

Disappearing politicians

Those holding civic office have had a distinct tendency to wander off into parts unknown. Does power drive a man (or woman) into the yonder? History writer Mike Stutchbery investigates.

What we can learn from WW2 health reform

Until the 1940s, healthcare was more privilege than right. Were you be able to pull a few groats together, you might be able to get a doctor to bleed your ills away.

What Iran can teach us about church and state

The nation we know today as Iran arose out of squabbling Aryan tribespeople (hence the name, ‘Iran’), into a series of empires and regimes, writes Mike Stuchbery.

What we can learn from… bushrangers

As long as there has been a geographical protruberance referred to as “Australia”, the inhabitants have delighted in the exploits of thieves, thugs, standover men and murderers.

What we can learn from Great Depression hobos

One of the most effective ways to ease the burden during a financial crisis is to share – both resources and knowledge, writes Mike Stuchbery.

Lessons in History: what we can learn from… the Spanish flu

Monkey blood and projectile vomiting — yes, the Spanish flu makes Swine Flu sound like a delightful picnic. But there are many scary similarities between the virii. A lesson in history from Mike Stuchbery.