The British Army: A New Short History

As part of this year's Chelsea History Festival, Ian Beckett offers a fascinating view on the British Army from its inception to the modern day.

The British Army has a long history that stretches back to the 17th century. Since then, it has been involved in conflicts across the globe and at home.

The history of the Army can be studied in so many different ways; from its impact on social, economic and cultural life, to its international, regional and local influence.

Ian Beckett will be in conversation with the National Army Museum’s Dr Glyn Prysor, discussing some of the key moments that have defined the British Army. Together, they will chart how it has evolved and changed over time.

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About Ian Beckett

Ian Beckett retired as Professor of Military History at the University of Kent in 2015. A Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, he has held chairs in both the UK and US. He is internationally known for his work on the history of the British Army in the 19th and 20th centuries and on the First World War. He was chairman of the UK Army Records Society from 2000 to 2014 and is Secretary of the Buckinghamshire Military Museum Trust.

About the Chelsea History Festival

The Chelsea History Festival is a partnership between three major heritage sites along Royal Hospital Road in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea: the National Army Museum, the Royal Hospital Chelsea and Chelsea Physic Garden.

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