The bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over the small Scottish town of Lockerbie in December 1988 was one of the most notorious acts of terrorism in recent history. Its political and foreign policy repercussions have been enormous, and twenty-five years after the atrocity in which 270 lost their lives, debate still rages over the conviction of Abdelbaset al-Megrahi, as well as his controversial release on compassionate grounds by Scotland's SNP government in 2009.John Ashton argues that ...

'You know me as the Lockerbie bomber. I know that I'm innocent. Here, for the first time, is my true story: how I came to be blamed for Britain's worst mass murder, my nightmare decade in prison and the truth about my controversial release. Please read it and decide for yourself. You are now my jury'. (Abdelbaset al-Megrahi).For the first time the man known as 'the Lockerbie bomber' tells his story.This long-awaited book argues that, far from being an unrepentant t...

'From the surnames of some of the most ancient families in the town of Brighthelmston, the phrase and pronunciation of the old natives, and some peculiar customs there, it has, with great probability, been conjectured, that the town had, at some distant period, received a colony of Flemings. This might have happened soon after the Conquest, for we read of a great inundation of the sea, about that time, in Flanders; and such of the inhabitants of the deluged country as wanted new habitation...

In "Hyde Park from Domesday-book to Date," John Ashton meticulously chronicles the rich history and evolution of one of London's most iconic green spaces. The book blends historical narrative with a critical examination of social, political, and environmental changes that have shaped Hyde Park from the 11th century to the present. Ashton's literary style weaves together vivid descriptions and archival research, offering readers an engaging account that is both informative and reflective. T...

"The History of Gambling in England" by John Ashton explores the intricate relationship between gambling and English society throughout the ages. Ashton delves into the origins of gambling, tracing its roots from ancient practices to its evolution in modern times. The book highlights various forms of gambling, including betting on sports, card games, and lotteries, while examining the social, legal, and economic implications of these activities. Through detailed anecdotes and historical ac...

In "Social England under the Regency," John Ashton provides a meticulous exploration of the intricate social fabric and cultural transformations of England during the Regency period (1811-1820). His prose offers a vivid synthesis of historical detail and narrative flair, weaving together anecdotes, societal norms, and popular customs. Ashton's comprehensive approach situates the Regency within the broader context of British history, highlighting the interplay between class, gender, and the...

In "The History of Gambling in England," John Ashton meticulously chronicles the evolution of gambling practices in England, tracing their origins from antiquity to the contemporary era. The book seamlessly blends historical narrative with sociocultural analysis, employing a rich literary style that engages both the academic and general reader. Ashton delves into the various forms of gambling, including dice games, lotteries, and betting on sports, contextualizing them within the fabric of...

One of the most interesting questions facing New Testament scholarsHow did Christianity emerge from Judaism?is often addressed in general and indirect terms. John Ashton argues that in the case of the Fourth Gospel, an answer is to be found in the religious experience of the Evangelist himself, who turned from being a practicing Jew to professing a new revelation centered on Christ as the intermediary between God and humanity.

Why would any educated scientist with a PhD advocate a literal interpretation of the six days of creation? Why, indeed, when only one in three Americans believes "the Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word" according to a recent Gallup poll.Science can neither prove nor disprove evolution any more than it can creation. Certainly there are no human eyewitness accounts of either. However, certain factors are present today which are capable of sway...

"The Dawn of the XIXth Century in England" by John Ashton offers a vivid portrayal of the social landscape during a transformative period in English history. Ashton meticulously examines the cultural, political, and economic changes that shaped society at the turn of the 19th century. Through detailed observations and anecdotes, he captures the essence of daily life, the struggles of the working class, and the evolving roles of women. His work serves as both a historical document and a soc...

"English Caricature and Satire on Napoleon I. Volume 2" by John Ashton delves into the rich tapestry of political satire and caricature that emerged during the tumultuous era of Napoleon Bonaparte. This volume showcases a collection of illustrations and commentary that reflect the public's perception of Napoleon, highlighting the blend of humor and critique that characterized the artistic response to his reign. Ashton's work not only preserves these historical artifacts but also provides i...

"Gossip in the First Decade of Victoria's Reign" by John Ashton offers a fascinating glimpse into the social dynamics and cultural milieu of early Victorian England. The book compiles a variety of anecdotes, letters, and reports that illustrate the gossip and public opinion surrounding Queen Victoria and her court. Ashton's meticulous research provides readers with an engaging narrative that highlights the interplay between celebrity, scandal, and the evolving role of the monarchy during t...