Tonypandy history refers to a historical event that everyone insists is true but that didn’t actually happen. From Grant’s perspective, most recorded history is Tonypandy or, as Brent would say, “History is the bunk” (149).

The term “Tonypandy” isn’t mentioned or explained until midway through the novel, but the theme it represents is present from the very start.

In the earliest chapters, both the Midget and the Amazon declare with absolute certainty that Richard killed the Tower princes. By the end of the book, Grant and Brent build a convincing case for Richard’s innocence, yet the common belief in his guilt remains unchanged.

The book asserts that Tonypandy history plays an important role in a community’s collective identity. As Grant’s cousin observes, “when you tell someone the true facts of a mythical tale they are indignant not with the teller but with you. They don’t want to have their ideas upset” (138). Challenging a preconceived idea threatens that sense of collective identity.

However, the book’s final scene, when the Amazon admits Richard has a pleasant face after seeing his portrait in a new light, suggests that factual truth will eventually triumph over subjective truth.