This book is based on an in-depth filmed conversation between Howard Burton and John Elliott, Regius Professor of History Emeritus at the University of Oxford and Honorary Fellow of Oriel College, Oxford and Trinity College, Cambridge. This extensive conversation provides behind-the-scenes insights into how an undergraduate encounter with a 17th-century painting of The Count-Duke Olivares led John Elliott on a lifelong odyssey to study the history of Spain, Europe and the Americas in the early modern period to become one of the greatest Spanish historians of our age. This carefully-edited book includes an introduction, Two Cheers for Objectivity, and questions for discussion at the end of each chapter:I. Beginnings - The benefits of travelII. In Search of Objectivity - Sentimental dangersIII. Past and Present - How to revivify yourselfIV. Circumventing Obstacles - The benefits of pressing onV. Doing History - Comparing, connecting and writing wellVI. The Power of Imagination - Surprise tests and non-barking dogsVII. Decline - What it means, exactlyVIII. The Impact of Technology - Strengths and weaknessesIX. Going Global - Opportunities and challengesX. History’s Due - Beyond the theme parkAbout Ideas Roadshow Conversations Series: This book is part of an expanding series of 100+ Ideas Roadshow conversations, each one presenting a wealth of candid insights from a leading expert in a focused yet informal setting to give non-specialists a uniquely accessible window into frontline research and scholarship that wouldn't otherwise be encountered through standard lectures and textbooks. For other books in this series visit our website: https://ideasroadshow.com/.