Dan Jones author photo

Dan Jones

Dan Jones is a British historian and author focused on medieval Europe and England. He wrote The Plantagenets, The Templars, Crusaders, and Powers and Thrones, and later the Essex Dogs novels. A New York Times bestselling writer, he is known for making medieval history accessible to broad popular audiences.

Biography & Author's Journey

Dan Jones is a British historian, journalist, presenter, and novelist whose career has been built on making medieval history vivid for general readers. Educated at the Royal Latin School and at Pembroke College, Cambridge, where he took a first in history in 2002, he came into public life through journalism before becoming widely known as an author. That early training mattered: it gave his prose speed, structure, and a reporter’s instinct for scene and character. A first major turning point came with Summer of Blood in 2009, his book on the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381, which drew strong critical attention and was named an Independent Book of the Year. ((https://cdn.waterstones.com/special/pdf/9780007213948.pdf))

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Quotes

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Historical fiction is the gateway drug to history
-Penguin Random House Author Q&A
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I write popular narrative history. I’m proud
-Penguin Random House Author Q&A
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At root is a very petty argument, really, between kings who all want each other's crown
-Historian Dan Jones on His Fiction Debut
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He has also been warped curiously out of shape by Shakespeare
-Dan Jones on Henry V
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When you’re writing, rhythm and discipline are essential
-Dan Jones on Henry V
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The Templars are rich subject matter for books, films and high-end TV dramas
-What Fuels Our Fascination With the Knights Templar?
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It was one of the most spectacular reversals of fortune history had ever seen
-How Religion and Greed Toppled the Templars
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But the Templars’ legend was only just beginning…
-How Religion and Greed Toppled the Templars
quote
Blue lips. Blackened skin. Blood leaking from noses and mouths
-More People Died in the Flu Pandemic Than in WWI

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The King’s Great Matter
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The King’s Great Matter

This plan is essential for history enthusiasts and students seeking to understand the radical transformation of the English state and church. It provides a deep dive into the political maneuvers and religious tensions that defined the Tudor era and reshaped Western Christianity.

1 h 12 m3 Sections
The Drama of Statecraft and Power
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The Drama of Statecraft and Power

This plan is essential for anyone seeking to understand the mechanics of political authority and the rise of nations. It is ideal for aspiring leaders, history buffs, and policy students wanting to grasp the forces that shape our world.

2 h4 Sections
The English musical renaissance
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The English musical renaissance

This plan offers a deep dive into the pivotal era that defined England's musical identity. It is ideal for history enthusiasts and musicians seeking to understand how Tudor politics and Elizabethan culture shaped Western classical music.

3 h 20 m4 Sections
The Life of Jesus in Context
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The Life of Jesus in Context

This plan offers a historical and cultural deep dive into the environment that shaped the ministry of Jesus. It is ideal for history buffs, theology students, and educators seeking to understand the socio-political tensions of the ancient Near East.

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The Architecture of Modern Order
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The Architecture of Modern Order

This plan offers a deep dive into the intellectual history and political shifts that shaped our current global landscape. It is ideal for students of political science, history, or philosophy seeking to understand the roots of modern governance and individual rights.

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Ancient History
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Ancient History

Ancient history provides crucial context for understanding the foundations of modern society, from our political systems to cultural traditions. This learning plan benefits students, history enthusiasts, and professionals seeking to understand how ancient civilizations continue to influence contemporary global developments and human behavior patterns.

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Robert Greene: The Power & Human Nature Pod
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Robert Greene: The Power & Human Nature Pod

This plan distills Robert Greene's essential wisdom on influence and social dynamics into actionable lessons. It is ideal for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone seeking to navigate human nature with greater strategic clarity and psychological insight.

1 h4 Sections
Cleopatra: The Strategist Behind the Myth
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Cleopatra: The Strategist Behind the Myth

This plan reclaims Cleopatra's legacy as a brilliant political mind rather than a mere romantic figure. It is ideal for history enthusiasts and aspiring leaders interested in power dynamics, strategic diplomacy, and crisis management.

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