The History of England, from the Accession to the Decease of King George the Third

What it is

This is a multi-volume history book written by John Adolphus, published in 1840. It covers the history of England from the accession to the death of King George III.

Why it matters

Written not long after George III's death, this book reflects how the Victorians looked back on his long reign, which included the loss of the American colonies and wars with France. It shows how historians tried to make sense of a king whose reign spanned huge political change.

Look closer

• Why might a historian writing in 1840 see George III's reign differently than someone living through it?
• What kind of sources might Adolphus have used to write this history?
• What does the list of subscribers printed at the front tell you about who read books like this?