Born in the Rhondda, Dr John Davies was brought up at Bwlchllan, near Lampeter from the age of 7. He studied at the University College of Wales, Cardiff and Trinity College, Cambridge.
For many years, he was a member of the Welsh History department in the University College of Wales, Aberystwyth, and warden of Neuadd Pantycelyn.
Among his publications are volumes on the history of the Bute family and Cardiff, the history of the BBC in Wales, and his authoritative book the History of Wales, published by Penguin in Welsh and English.