10 Mistakes That Changed History: The Reckless Rulers, Monumental Mishaps and Disastrous Decisions That Have Shaped Our World by Paul Coulter

We all make mistakes but rarely do they change the course of human history. From breakups that ended empires to naps that sank ships, 10 Mistakes That Changed History is a hilarious retelling of some of the greatest episodes in the story of humankind.

Covering some of the biggest characters and events of the last 2,500 years, from Cleopatra to the sinking of the Titanic, historian and comedian Paul Coulter explores how, despite the glamour, entourages, and deity-sized egos, history’s turning points were often the result of very human errors.

Blending history, storytelling, and sharp comedy, 10 Mistakes That Changed History is history the way you wish it had been taught at school: a greatest-hits of bad leadership decisions, misguided heroics, and catastrophic lapses in judgment. These are the stories that shaped our world—with monumental consequences. Because sometimes it’s nice to know that, no matter how bad your day is, even the greatest names in history messed up too.

⭐ Praise for the hit live show:

Top pick of the Edinburgh Fringe 2024, named one of the best shows by:

• The Scottish Herald
• Mervyn Stutter
• The Edinburgh Reporter

“So engaging and entertaining I forgot I was there to review it.” — Theatre Weekly

“Entertaining and informative.” — Edinburgh Reporter

“The perfect balance between entertaining and educating.” — Corr Blimey

“Coulter cleverly weaves the well-researched facts with modern-day parallels; turning historical figures into relatable misfits.” — Glam Adelaide

“Coulter’s storytelling is unmatched, and his references to current pop culture are relevant and hilarious.” — Edinburgh Fringe Review

“Infectiously charming.” — LondonTheatre1

“A hilarious blend of storytelling, facts and comedy.” — On the Record

• World History
• European History
• Roman History
• Tudor History
• Victorian History
• Military History
• Ancient History
• British History
• American History
• History

ENG- English

• Hardcover