Book excerpt: England and its Rulers has established itself as an attractive and authoritative account of English history from 1066, which brings the chronicle sources to life and makes original assessments of the kings and political events. It emphasizes how the Norman Conquest was followed by the Angevin Empire and then by the Poitevin ministers and favourites brought in by King John and Henry III. The identity of English culture is analysed in the light of these strong external influences. This new edition has an epilogue on Edward I (1272-1307), which considers his wars in Wales and Scotland and reassesses his character and achievements. It also contains a new bibliography on all aspects of English history in the period 1066-1307.