William Russell (Scottish writer)

William Russell (1741 – 1793) was a Scottish historian, biographer, and miscellaneous writer. Born in Windydoors, Roxburghshire, he received a basic education and initially apprenticed as a bookseller in Edinburgh. He later moved to London, where he pursued a career in writing.

Russell is best known for his "History of Modern Europe," a multi-volume work that enjoyed considerable popularity and went through numerous editions. The "History" covered the period from the decline of the Roman Empire to the mid-18th century. While now largely superseded by more recent scholarship, it was highly regarded in its time for its comprehensiveness and readable style.

In addition to the "History of Modern Europe," Russell also wrote biographies, including a life of Oliver Cromwell, and contributed to various periodicals. He also published works on grammar and rhetoric.

Russell's writing style is characterized by its clarity and didactic tone, aiming to instruct and enlighten the reader. He sought to provide a comprehensive and accessible account of historical events, often emphasizing moral lessons and the importance of civic virtue. While his historical interpretations reflect the perspectives and biases of his era, his works remain valuable for understanding the intellectual climate of the late 18th century.