In 2016, Britain stunned itself and the world by voting to pull out of the European Union, leaving financial markets reeling and global politicians and citizens in shock. But was Brexit really a surprise, or are there clues in Britain’s history that pointed to this
moment? In A History of Britain: 1945 to the Brexit, award-winning historian Jeremy Black reexamines modern British history, considering the social changes, economic strains, and cultural and political upheavals that brought Britain to Brexit. This
sweeping and engaging book traces Britain’s path through the destruction left behind by World War II, Thatcherism, the threats of the IRA, the Scottish referendum, and on to the impact of waves of immigration from the European Union. Black overturns many conventional interpretations of significant historical events, provides context for current developments, and encourages the reader to question why we think the way we do about Britain’s past.
“Jeremy Black is a superlative guide to modern British history. He combines a wonderful narrative style with unimpeachable intellectual authority. if anyone wants to understand how our country has developed over the last seventy years there is no better volume than this.”
Michael Gove, MP
“Throughout this volume, Professor Black demonstrates an enviable ability to communicate the most complex events incisively and economically—whether analyzing the Northern Irish ‘Troubles’ in a few pages, or the Miners’ Strike in a few paragraphs. With masterly command of detail, he builds a picture of change and continuity
which makes the outcome of Britain’s Brexit referendum much easier to comprehend.”
Julian Lewis, MP and Chairman, House of Commons Defense Committee
A History of Britain is published by Indiana University Press in August 2017.
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