We were delighted to welcome Professor Andrew O’Shaughnessy (67-78) back to the School on Wednesday 22nd February to give an inspiring lecture on his latest book ‘The Men Who Lost America: British Leadership, the American Revolution, and the Fate of the Empire’. 

During his talk, Andrew, an eminent Historian, described how Britain’s loss of America in the War of Independence is typically attributed to failings from key decision makers who have become cartoon-like figures of incompetence in modern day culture. He went on to overturn the common opinion and argued that actually they “were able and substantial individuals who nevertheless failed” and questioned if and why things didn’t turn out differently.

Boys, OBs, and members of the wider School community were fascinated by Andrew’s talk. It was evident to see that the boys took great inspiration in hearing that Andrew’s passion for History began when he was a student at Bedford School and decided to take part in the School’s ‘Independent Projects’ initiative. Andrew decided to research a local family for his project…and the rest is history!

After the lecture, attendees had the opportunity to mingle and chat with Andrew in an informal setting. It was particularly pleasing to see some OBs reminiscing about their time at the School and chatting about their experiences.

If you would like to return to the School to give a talk, please email the OB Club Office on obclub@bedfordschool.org.uk we would be most pleased to help arrange this for you.

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