Sir William Holdsworth's well-known book traces the development of English Law from the days of Glanvil and Bracton in the second half of the twelfth century. He shows how English Common Law was shaped by a line of great men and how later equity grew up to supplement its deficiencies. The part played by Roman Law is also described. English law has affected the law in the United States and in the Commonwealth and the author brings out the connections clearly.