The Penguin Illustrated History of Britain and Irelandis a wonderfully rich and comprehensive guide to the eventful history of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland - from the arrival of the first humans half a million years ago right up to the present day. It traces the unfolding of key events through the Roman and Norman conquests, the Civil War, the World Wars, and the rise and fall of the British Empire. At the same time it looks at the life of society, focusing on such subjects as the growth of towns, the changing languages of the British Isles, women's suffrage, and the ascent of Victorian seaside resorts and the spread of the suburbs. Meticulously researched by a team of experts to offer a wide variety of perspectives, The Penguin Illustrated History of Britain and Irelandprovides a kaleidoscopic account of centuries of change and achievement, bringing the diverse and fascinating history of the British Isles vividly to life.