Britain has been shaped by turmoil between its nations, and tension between state and church. But centuries of conflict would forge the power at the heart of the largest empire the world has ever seen.

Discover more in the sections below.

Explore all of British history, from the Neolithic to the present day, with this easy-to-use interactive timeline.

The story behind the Battle of Hastings, and the leaders who fought it out in 1066.

Turmoil, crisis and the creation of a state, from Magna Carta to the horrors of the Black Death.

An era of change and triumph, from Henry VIIIs Reformation to Elizabeth and the Armada.

The Gunpowder Plot failed, but the English Civil War would later claim the life of a king.

War with France brought victory at Trafalgar and Waterloo, and gave Britain control of the seas.

How the trade operated and the dramatic transatlantic campaign that led to its abolition.

Industrial revolution powered Britain to global pre-eminence and initiated social reform.

Controversy and emancipation. Britains costliest conflict had a far-reaching impact at home.

Life on the Home Front, from the bombs of the Blitz to the preparations for invasion.

Britain in the late 20th century, from the creation of the Welfare State to multiculturalism.

Explorethe British History Timelinefrom the Neolithic to the present day

Find out more about how the BBC is covering theWorld War One Centenary, and see the latest programmes and online content

Dan Snow askswhy so many soldiers survived the trenchesin WW1

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