A. J. P. Taylor was a prominent British historian known for his work on 19th and 20th-century European history. Born on March 25, 1906, he gained fame for his engaging writing style and critical analysis of historical events. His most notable works include "The Origins of the Second World War," where he challenged conventional views about the causes of the conflict. Taylor was also a professor at Oxford University and a prolific writer, contributing to various publications. He was known for his television appearances, which helped popularize history among the general public. Taylor passed away on September 7, 1990, leaving a lasting impact on historical scholarship.