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10 Mistakes That Changed History

The Reckless Rulers, Monumental Mishaps and Disastrous Decisions That Have Shaped Our World.

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About this listen

Brought to you by Penguin.

From breakups that ended empires to naps that sank ships, 10 Mistakes That Changed History reveals how overlooked historical errors are responsible for some of the most era-defining events of the past.

Featuring many of the most recognisable characters and episodes in history, from Cleopatra to the sinking of the Titanic, comedian and historian Paul Coulter reframes our understanding of these pivotal moments, revealing how human errors and their unintended outcomes have governed our world – and will likely determine our future.

Packed full of surprising facts and funny stories, 10 Mistakes That Changed History is a greatest hits of bad leadership decisions, misguided acts of heroism and mankind’s most catastrophic lapses of judgement. These are the very human stories that have shaped our world, all with monumental consequences.

© Paul Coulter 2025 (P) Penguin Audio 2025

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Critic reviews

Coulter is the British history teacher you wish you had in high school.
Engaging. passionate and quirky, these tales come together to prove history is anything but dull.
All stars
Most relevant
Excellent information, clearly shared and understandable so everyone. Now I’m off to make some Mistakes whilst trying new things!

I wish history was like this at school

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Kept me intrigued from beginning to end! Lovely piece of literature. Really liked the comparison of history to modern day throughout. Great work, Paul!

Brilliant and captivating

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