This British Library interactive timeline allows you to explore collection items chronologically, from medieval times to the present day.
It includes a diverse combination of texts: those that allow glimpses of everyday life (handbills, posters, letters, diaries), remnants of political events (charters, speeches, campaign leaflets), and the writings of some of our best known historical and literary figures.
Launch Timelines: Sources from History
Features of the Timeline
Timelines is a fantastic resource for learning about culture, politics, technology and everyday life through the ages.
Highlights of the timeline include:
- Manuscripts by great figures in history, including Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, Mozart, Wordsworth, William Blake, Jane Austen, Florence Nightingale and Dickens
- Original records of major events in history, from the Black Death and the Great Fire to the French Revolution and the abolition of the slave trade
- The first Western printed book, the first English cookery manuscript, the first English language Bible and the first postage stamp
- Posters, advertisements and illustrations documenting everything from public executions and magic shows to plague cures and freak shows
Use thematic timelines, such as ‘everyday life’ and ‘politics, power and rebellion’ and 'literature, music and entertainment', to make fascinating comparisons, both within time periods and across time. Save or print individual timeline items or add them to your own timeline of favourites.
Launch Timelines: Sources from History
