Oxford Professor Lyndal Roper Wins Cundill History Prize

Oxford professor Lyndal Roper has been awarded the prestigious Cundill History Prize for her book “Summer of Fire and Blood: The German Peasants’ War.” This recognition highlights Roper’s fresh perspective on the 16th century rebellion, which has often been characterized as a failed uprising. The award ceremony took place at a gala dinner in Montreal on October 30, 2025.

Roper’s book, which challenges established narratives surrounding the German Peasants’ War of 1524 and 1525, received high praise from the prize’s jurors. They commended her deep research and insightful analysis, noting that the narrative she constructs portrays the rebels not as chaotic radicals but as individuals advocating for “early ideas of justice, communal decision-making, and resistance to arbitrary power.” This perspective sheds light on the motivations and aspirations of the peasants involved in the conflict.

Recognition and Runners-Up

The Cundill History Prize, administered by McGill University, recognizes outstanding non-fiction history writing in English. Roper received a monetary award of US$75,000 as part of her recognition. The prize also honors two runners-up, each receiving US$10,000. This year, the runners-up included “The First and Last King of Haiti: The Rise and Fall of Henry Christophe” by Marlene L. Daut and “The Age of Choice: A History of Freedom in Modern Life” by Sophia Rosenfeld.

The Cundill History Prize, now in its 15th year, aims to promote and reward exceptional historical scholarship. Roper’s win not only acknowledges her scholarly contributions but also invites readers to reconsider the complexities of historical narratives. Her work encourages a deeper understanding of the social and political dynamics at play during the tumultuous period of the German Peasants’ War.

As the academic community and history enthusiasts reflect on the implications of Roper’s findings, her award symbolizes the importance of revisiting historical events with fresh eyes. The recognition serves as a reminder of the ongoing relevance of history in understanding contemporary issues.