10 Mistakes That Changed History

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