Alan John Percivale Taylor, better known as AJP Taylor, was born on March 25, 1906, in Lancashire, England. He was raised in an affluent and radically liberal household, which instilled in him a passion for history and politics from a young age. Taylor attended Oxford University in the late 1920s, where he developed a keen interest in European history and diplomacy.
After graduating from Oxford, Taylor embarked on a successful academic career. He accepted teaching positions at prestigious institutions such as the University of Manchester, University College London, and Magdalen College, Oxford. Taylor's research focused primarily on European diplomacy during the Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries, earning him recognition as a leading historian in his field.
One of Taylor's most famous works is "The Struggle for Mastery in Europe 1848-1918," which explores the power dynamics and conflicts that shaped Europe during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Another significant publication by Taylor is "The Origins of the Second World War," in which he delves into the complex political and social factors that led to the outbreak of World War II.
During the tumultuous years of World War II, Taylor forged close relationships with key figures in European politics. He developed friendships with Czechoslovakian President Edvard Benes and Hungarian leader Mihaly Karolyi, gaining valuable insights into the diplomatic challenges of the era.
Taylor's personal life was marked by romantic entanglements and family ties. His first marriage to Margaret Adams resulted in four children, while his second marriage to Eve Crosland brought him two more. Later in life, Taylor married Hungarian-born historian Eva Haraszti, adding another dimension to his already colorful personal history.
It is worth noting that Taylor's first wife, Margaret Adams, was involved in a romantic affair with the renowned Welsh poet Dylan Thomas, adding a touch of scandal to the historian's personal life.
In conclusion, AJP Taylor's legacy as a historian is defined by his insightful analysis of European diplomacy and his engaging BBC television lectures. His groundbreaking research and prolific writing continue to inspire scholars and history enthusiasts around the world.