Talks / Ideas / Philosophy

Donald Trump: America's Henry Viii?

Various venues across London

Tue 13 Oct · 19:00 · £20.25

90m · Talk

About this event

"Donald Trump: America's Henry VIII?" with Jack van Uden Summary: From his eating habits to his politics, from his wives to his advisors, from the pomp and ceremony of court to the destruction of England’s religious landscape, Henry VIII has always demanded our attention, and we have always given it! He, his dynasty and story has dominated the school curriculum, the popular history book bestseller’s list, and the media for decades. We have often dreamed about what would happen if a Henry VIII type figure emerged on the global stage, but since the emergence of Donald J. Trump’s political career, we’ve no longer had to dream. Since his rise to power, talk of Donald J. Trump’s political career has been dominated by his eating habits, the revolving of advisors and cabinet members, and sexual harassment and scandal cases. This talk will explore the similarities and the differences between two larger-than-life political figures, one of whom was a King and the other who desires that title, but both, many considered tyrants! Bio : Jackson van Uden is a historian and political commentator who specialises in power, tyranny, and dictators across history and the modern world. He is currently a History PhD Reseacher at Royal Holloway, University of London, where he is researching the authoritarianisation of the US executive under Donald J. Trump. Jackson has also spoken on the history of tyranny and his work in across the world, speaking at the University of Manitoba, the Luxembourg Centre for Contemporary and Digital History at the University of Luxembourg and Chalke History Festival. He has also made frequent BBC Radio appearances, and his work has appeared in a wide range of history publications, such as All About History Magazine and History of War Magazine. In 2024, he was named in BBC History Extra’s 30 Under 30 list, and on the 2025 and 2026 Chalke Introduces Programme, positioning him as one of the best young historians in the country. Venue: Blue's Kitchen Brixton, 40 Acre Ln, London SW2 5SP Event Running Time: (We recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only) Doors from 7pm Introduction: 7:25pm Lecture: 7:30pm Q&A: 8:10pm Finish: 8:30pm FAQs: What is Pints of Knowledge? Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond. What happens at Pints of Knowledge? At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting. What if I don't drink alcohol ? No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable. Can I attend without a ticket? Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket. There is occasionally the option to purchase a ticket on the door for our sold-out events, but we cannot guarantee this. Is there food available? Yes, there is usually the option to purchase food at our events - please see each venue's menu on their website. If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts. In the unlikely event the kitchen isn't open, there will typically be an option to order in food from elsewhere or bring your own food. Can I get my ticket refunded? We issue full ticket refunds up to 24 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser. Can I get my ticket exchanged? We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 48 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser . Is the event pet/baby friendly? Yes, we allow pets and babies to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive. Is the venue accessible? All of our venues are accessible, besides the following: The Old Queen's Head, The Landor, The Alma, and The Morpeth Arms.