Revenge of the Tabloids
British tabloid newspapers were thought by many to be in irreversible decline due to falling print circulation and repeated scandals, yet they have had their enduring influence dramatically underlined by events in 2016.
The last Nazi hunters
A look at the work of Germany’s Central Office for the Investigation of National Socialist Crimes.
How to spot a perfect fake: the world’s top art forgery detective
As the prices commanded by landmark works and artists rise ever higher, so too does the sophistication of forgeries being produced to dupe collectors and institutions. A tip: it’s apparently far easier to copy a Modigliani than a Leonardo – at a recent exhibition of his work, 20 out of the 21 works on display were found to be counterfeits. This piece profiles the man said to be the very best in the field of science-led authentication.
How Britain let Russia hide its dirty money
A piece looking at the influx of Russian money into the UK.
Where global warming gets real: inside Nasa’s mission to the north pole
The story of Nasa’s evocatively named Operation IceBridge.
The Most Potent, Permanent and Elusive Figure in British Politics
A fascinating January 2016 profile of Jeremy Heywood, the man heading the UK civil service. He has been an instrumental part of government during the reign of the last three Prime Ministers, and reportedly has a seat at every table that matters.
Inside the OED: can the world’s biggest dictionary survive the internet?
A study of the history of the dictionary and the evolving work of lexicographers in the internet age.
How Matteo Salvini pulled Italy to the far right
A detailed look at the rise of Italy’s Interior Minister (and some say de facto leader) Matteo Salvini.
The Rebranding of Europe’s Far Right
The rebranding of far right parties across Europe is proving alarmingly successful.
I’ve Done Really Bad Things
An interview with a former police officer involved in undercover drugs operations, whose views have radically changed since he left the force.