Lyndal Roper Wins Cundill History Prize for Groundbreaking Work

Oxford professor Lyndal Roper has been awarded this year’s Cundill History Prize for her book, Summer of Fire and Blood: The German Peasants’ War. The announcement was made during a gala dinner in Montreal on October 30, 2025. Roper’s work challenges the established narrative surrounding the 16th-century uprising, providing a fresh perspective on the events that unfolded during the tumultuous years of 1524 and 1525.

The Cundill History Prize, administered by McGill University, recognizes outstanding non-fiction history writing in English. Roper’s research has been praised by the judging panel for its depth and insight, as it highlights the perspectives of the peasants involved in the conflict. The jurors noted that the rebels articulated “early ideas of justice, communal decision-making, and resistance to arbitrary power,” countering the notion that they were merely disorganized radicals as portrayed by those who emerged victorious.

Celebrating Scholarly Achievement

The Cundill History Prize comes with a monetary award of US$75,000. Roper, originally from Australia, expressed her gratitude upon receiving the award, acknowledging the significance of the recognition for her scholarly efforts. The prize also included two runners-up, each receiving US$10,000. The runners-up were Marlene L. Daut for her book The First and Last King of Haiti: The Rise and Fall of Henry Christophe, and Sophia Rosenfeld for The Age of Choice: A History of Freedom in Modern Life.

The German Peasants’ War remains an important topic in the study of social and political upheaval in Europe, and Roper’s book aims to reframe the discussion surrounding this pivotal moment in history. By focusing on the voices of the peasants, Roper sheds light on their struggles and aspirations, offering a more nuanced understanding of the rebellion’s impact on German society.

Impact on Historical Discourse

As a leading scholar in her field, Roper’s work contributes significantly to the discourse surrounding historical narratives and the importance of including diverse perspectives. The Cundill History Prize not only highlights her achievements but also emphasizes the value of rigorous historical scholarship in understanding complex social movements.

The recognition of her work at such a prestigious level marks a notable moment for historians and scholars alike. Roper’s achievement serves as an inspiration for future research that challenges established narratives and seeks to illuminate the voices of those often marginalized in historical accounts.

With the Cundill History Prize continuing to celebrate excellence in historical writing, Roper’s win reaffirms the relevance of history as a field of inquiry that can inform contemporary discussions on justice, power, and resistance.