Oxford’s Lyndal Roper Wins Cundill History Prize for Insightful Book

Oxford professor Lyndal Roper has been awarded the prestigious Cundill History Prize for her compelling book, Summer of Fire and Blood: The German Peasants’ War. The announcement was made during a gala dinner held in Montreal on October 30, 2025. Roper’s work offers a fresh perspective on the 16th century uprising, challenging the common narrative that portrays the rebellion as a disorganized failure.

Recognizing Revolutionary Perspectives

Roper’s book, which delves into the events of the German Peasants’ War of 1524 and 1525, has been praised by the Cundill jurors for its rigorous research and insightful analysis. They highlight how Roper presents the rebels not merely as chaotic insurgents but as individuals expressing “early ideas of justice, communal decision-making, and resistance to arbitrary power.” This angle redefines the understanding of the uprising, emphasizing the peasants’ motivations and societal aspirations.

At the gala, Roper was awarded US$75,000 for her achievement, a significant recognition for her contributions to non-fiction history writing in English. The award, administered by McGill University, aims to honor extraordinary historical scholarship.

Honorable Mentions

The competition for this year’s prize included notable works from two runners-up, each receiving US$10,000. These included Marlene L. Daut‘s book titled The First and Last King of Haiti: The Rise and Fall of Henry Christophe and Sophia Rosenfeld‘s The Age of Choice: A History of Freedom in Modern Life. Both texts further showcase the depth and variety of historical narratives being explored in contemporary scholarship.

As Roper’s work continues to influence the field, the Cundill History Prize remains a vital platform for recognizing innovative historical writing that challenges established viewpoints. This year’s award highlights the importance of examining history through diverse lenses, fostering a deeper understanding of past events and their implications for today.