This chronological dictionary of quotations includes over 7000 entries and is ordered by major historical period from the Creation to "glasnost". Events such as the French Revolution or World War I are described both in the words of those who lived through them and by those who have come after and commented on their significance. This work does not simply deal with major historical events but reflects the development - and recurrence - of ideas and social attitudes; Henry II's view of free elections is set against Tom Stoppard's 20th century comment on democracy, while advice about sex in the 1980s is given by the unlikely combination of Barbara Cartland and Edwina Currie. Besides an index, the work contains biographical information on the people quoted and cross referencing.