A History of Modern Britain in 12 Crises

by Christopher Kirkland

Overview

This book provides an accessible and engaging introduction to British political history, by exploring 12 key crises from the early 20th century to the modern day. Taking each crisis in turn, chapters investigate the following crucial questions:

• What’s at stake in the crisis?

• Who was able to frame and shape the debates and narratives around the crisis?

• How was the crisis eventually resolved?

Developing a nuanced account of crisis, the book shows how narrations of events as crises can be used to promote particular political changes. Taken together the crises will familiarise readers with key themes in British politics and the events that have shaped the current shape of politics within the UK.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781529231991
Publisher:	Bristol University Press
Publication date:	12/23/2025
Edition description:	First Edition
Pages:	288
Product dimensions:	6.69(w) x 9.61(h) x (d)

About the Author

Christopher Kirkland is Senior Lecturer in Politics at York St. John’s University, UK.

Table of Contents

Introduction

2. The Constitutional Crisis of 1909–12

3. The Irish Home Rule Crisis of 1912-14

4. Britain in the First World War

5. The General Strike of 1926

6. The Great Slump of 1931

7. Britain in the Second World War

8. Suez Crisis of 1956

9. Winter of Discontent of 1978–9

10. Miners’ Strike of 1984–5

11. Terrorist Attacks in London on 7th July 2005

12. 2007/8 Global Financial Crisis

13. COVID-19

Conclusion