No military timetable should compel war when a successful outcome, namely a disarmed Iraq may be feasible without war, for example by allowing more time to the UN inspectors.

It is normal for politicians in all countries to profess themselves the pupils of history, anxious to draw the right lessons from her teaching.

The tragedy of 9/11 galvanised the American superpower into action, leaving us in Europe divided in its wake.

Silence is regarded as a sort of sin now, and it has to be filled with a lot of gossip and soundbites.

There is no consensus even today on the merits of Napoleon - and certainly no agreement on the rights and wrongs of the origins of the First World War.

People know they are lacking something, they are constantly wanting some kind of spiritual guidance.

We must admit that history is enjoyable to a large extent because it enables us to pass judgment on the past.