Altered Pasts: counterfactuals in history
Richard J. Evans in conversation with Diarmuid Ferriter
The question 'what if?' has always fascinated historians. Over the past few decades alternative history has become a popular stomping ground for serious historians. In his new book, Altered Pasts, Richard J. Evans turns a critical, slightly jaundiced eye on the subject. Most importantly, Evans takes counterfactual history seriously, looking at the insights, pitfalls and intellectual implications of changing one thread in the weave of history.
Sir Richard J. Evans is Professor of Modern History at Cambridge University. He is best known for his research on the history of Germany in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly the Third Reich.
Diarmuid Ferriter is Professor of Modern Irish History at University College Dublin.
Recorded at The Printworks Venue, Dublin Castle on 26th September 2014.