Britain since 1939: Progress and Decline

by David Childs

Overview

In this thoroughly revised 2nd edition, David Childs gives a detailed account of political, social and economic developments since 1919, including the impact of the Second World War, Britain's often neglected last days as an Empire- India, Palestine, Kenya, Cyprus and elsewhere are covered, necessary background for an understanding of Britain today.
The decline of the Conservatives and the Blair experience are also covered at length, and a sketch of Ireland from the Free State to today's prosperous Republic is included. Biographical materials and interviews enliven the text.
Mention is made of the discussion on decline at various points in British history, but Childs concludes that although Britain faces very serious problems, its people are better off than ever before in terms of prosperity and personal freedom.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781350393622
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Publishing
Publication date:	12/05/2001
Series:	British Studies Series
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	415
File size:	647 KB

About the Author

DAVID CHILDS is Professor Emeritus of Politics at Nottingham University, UK.

Table of Contents

Introduction
Interwar Britain, 1919-39
Britain and the World, 1919-39
Britain at War, 1939-41
From European War to World War and Victory, 1941-45
Britain under Attlee, 1945-51
From Churchill to Macmillan, 1951-60
Conservatives on the Run, 1961-64
Harold Wilson at the Helm, 1964-70
Trouble and Strife, 1970-74
Trouble and Strife, 1974-79
The Thatcher Era, 1979-87
Thatcher in Decline, 1987-90
Major's Avalanche of Problems
New Labour in Office
Appendix
Selected Bibliography
Index.

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

A timely and useful second edition for new historians who need to be brought up to speed with 20th century British history.' - Roger Middleton, University of Bristol

Editorial Reviews

An account of general developments in British politics and society, framed by the underlying theme of the decline of Britain since WWI. The story is told in chronological order, using the different political administrations as convenient signposts, with the underlying theme discussed implicitly or explicitly throughout. Among the specific topics covered are politics and the economy, education, foreign policy and defense, housing and living standards, colonialism, immigration and racism, crime, the media, the monarchy, popular opinion, and the changing role of women. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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