The Battle of Lepanto and Its Influence on English History

The Mediterranean Sea has seen naval warfare since man took to water. But the sea battle that took place in 1571 off the coast of Greece near Lepanto was without precedent. 484 armed naval vessels confronted each other armed with cannons. The historic event shaped the future of the Mediterranean. But how great was its influence on English history?

Nicolaus Copernicus and a Question of Nationality

If you read German and Polish history books, both claim Nicolaus Copernicus as their own. They make him part of their national identity. The question remains unresolved as there are points to be made for both views. But was nationality really an issue?

St Botolph and a Head in a Glass Casket

The church of St Botolph without Aldgate used to have a curious show piece, a head in a glass casket. The provenience of the head is a great mystery. Different theories as to its history have been proposed, but there are no clues as to whom the head was once attached to. And it is conceivable that the mystery will remain unsolved.

Emperor Frederick II: A Model Ruler?

Hohenstaufen Frederick II, Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire and King of Sicily and Jerusalem, was and still is regarded as a medieval thinker and philosopher breaking a lance for enlightenment and tolerance. As a proof thereof, his friendship with Muslim leaders is cited most often. The question is, is there any proof of this claimed friendship? 

When Doping Was All Bulls' Balls

Faster, higher, stronger: Doping has been paired with sport for centuries. It was common at the Olympic Games (the historical ones) and formed part of normal preparation. The testing of athletes for forbidden substances, on the other hand, has been done for just over 40 years. As a matter of principle, doping research is always a step behind the cheats as there will always be people who think they are cleverer than the rest of humanity.