The world’s last chance

Ian McEwan: The only one who can unite humanity for this life-or-death struggle against climate change is Barack Obama

The morning after the night before

Barack Obama is the favourite to win the US general election, but what will be the mood if he does? And what if he doesn't? Five writers imagine what might happen next

Studs Terkel

The master chronicler of American life in the 20th century, veteran radical and vibrant soul of Chicago has died, aged 96. By Ed Vulliamy

Statutes of liberty

From the Magna Carta to CCTV, a new exhibition at the British Library tells the definitive story of the nation's fight for liberty. Tristram Hunt is inspired