There are a decent number of knowledgable people in their respective fields active on the site, and they will happily engage new members, answer questions and stimulate lively discussion. A very broad range of subjects are continually discussed there, from pre-history to the 1980's, from Europe to Asia, Africa and the Americas. Military history, architecture, art, archaeology, linguistics, etc. There are also regular essay competitions. History subjects tend to attract a steady flow of bonafide nutters, but the moderation team deals with them quite efficiently. At first, the moderation might seem a little heavy handed at times, but in my time there, I've learnt to give them the benefit of doubt. The rules are clear, and anybody that repeatedly brings up modern politics, genetics, insults fellow forum members or is proselytizing will face sanction. It won't take long before you understand why these subjects are off-limits. People who have a genuine interest in history will enjoy the site. Personally I've learnt a lot there. And I haven't come across any other history forums that engenders such productive discussions.