Writing for the past, present and future.
all about me

Erica Canela is a public historian, writer, and editor.
As an award-winning historian, I specialise in 17th century history, with a focus on the British Civil Wars and the early Quakers in England. With years of experience as a public speaker, I deliver enthusiastic, insightful talks and presentations that make history accessible and enjoyable.
I am also a freelance copywriter and editor with a meticulous eye for detail and an ability to create engaging SEO-optimised content that will resonate with your readers. I have worked with B2B & B2C organisations, the charity sector, and academia, so I know how to strategically turn words into winning results.
How I can help you
Whether you’re looking for a speaker for a history event, a copywriter to take your project to the next level, or an editor to make sure your words are just right, I’m here to help!
The Writer
Do you need captivating SEO-driven content? I specialise in writing dynamic copy for websites, products, proposals, and editorial pieces. I’m also an experienced copyeditor and proofreader, focusing on making your writing clear, polished, and professional.
The Historian
I am going to change the way you see early Quaker history. I write about the darker side of early Quakerism and also examine the impact of the British Civil Wars on religious dissent – the parts of the story that are equally important and uncomfortable.
Explore my work.
Check out some of my favourite work from previous projects and events!
About me
I am an early modern social historian, specialising in English Quaker history and the psychological trauma of the Civil Wars.
I have a Ph.D from the University of Birmingham and have taught early modern British history in both university and non-academic settings.
I co-authored a chapter in the anthology Quakerism in the Atlantic World in the Long Eighteenth Century (published by Pennsylvania State University Press in 2021) and am writing two volumes for the Brill Research Perspectives in Quaker Studies (De Gruyter Brill) series on early Quaker history to be published in 2025 and 2026.
For me, publishing was a natural career change from academia. I use the same ethos as a historian as I do in publishing.
Clear is kind. This works brilliantly for both writing and editing. In copywriting, it means making absolutely sure your core message resonates through the page. In editing, I will be straightforward with feedback to ensure your words tick all the right boxes. My whole career has centred around the written word – making those words compelling and accessible.



