UCL historian shortlisted for prestigious Wolfson Prize 2024

Dr Seaton, a UCL historian of modern Britain, has been shortlisted for this year’s prestigious Wolfson History Prize for his acclaimed history of the National Health Service. 

His book, Our NHS: A History of Britain’s Best-Loved Institution, chronicles the history of the world-famous institution through the perspectives of patients, medical practitioners, trade unions and overseas health experts. 

Describing Dr Seaton’s book, the Wolfson Prize judging panel said it was “eye-opening and well informed”. The judges said: “This book on the history of the NHS is a superb case study of how an exploration of the past can inform contemporary debate.” 

The Wolfson Prize, now in its 52nd year, celebrates books that combine excellence in research with readability for a general audience, demonstrating the relevance of history and historical writing to society today. It is considered the most valuable history writing prize in the UK. 

Tasked with narrowing down the shortlist to just one winner is the judging panel: Dame Mary Beard, Sir Richard Evans, Dr Sudhir Hazareesingh, Professor Carole Hillenbrand, Professor Diarmaid MacCulloch, and Sir David Cannadine, who chaired the panel.  

Sir David said: “This year’s shortlist showcases the extraordinary range and breadth of contemporary historical writing. 

“From politics, slavery and international relations to healthcare and societal transformation, the six titles – with subjects spanning continents and centuries – offer profound insights and stand out for their rigorous research and compelling storytelling.” 

Links  

• Dr Andrew Seaton’s academic profile 
• UCL History 
• UCL Social & Historical Sciences 
• The Wolfson History Prize 

Media contact  

Sophie Hunter 

Sophie.hunter [at] ucl.ac.uk