This Sceptred Isle: The Dynasties, Volume Four: The Cavendishes, the Comptons, the Russells

The Sceptred Isle provided the definitive radio account of the British nation, from 55BC to the end of the 20th century. Now its attention turns towards the incredibly powerful families which have wielded power behind the scenes for the past 1,000 years. The Dynasties relates how the loyalties of this privileged elite, many of whom are older than the monarchy itself, were tested and rewarded; it also uncovers a multitude of murderous plots, bloody battles, adulteries, intrigues and shocking executions.In the fourth volume the Cavendishes first appear in history with Sir John, the 14th century Chief Justice who had his head cut off by rebels. The Comptons, a seemingly unremarkable aristocratic family, have at times been influential in the governing of England. The Russells’ most famous member is Bertrand, the philosopher, yet they also produced politicians, generals, writers and marquesses.