by John Terraine
War, burning, looting, death - for 1,000 years the story of Britain was one of invasion and conquest. But since 1066 no enemy soldier has set foot on our land.
The narrow strip of water separating us from Europe - Shakespeare called it 'a moat defensive' - protected this island 'against infection and the hand of war.' Beside it grew great castles and forts - Portchester, Pevensey, Walmer and Fort Nelson. On it sailed the 'wooden walls' of Drake and Nelson. Above it flew the Spitfires and Hurricanes of 1940. John Terraine looks from a new angle at our island story
(Invaders: see page 6)
(Colour)