Description
Book SynopsisThis is a short history of the political life of this island over a very long period, showing how history can speak clearly to current political debates.
Trade Reviewthis book offers a unique look at Britain in a global context. * M.K.Thompson, CHOICE *
A Useful History of Britain is undoubtedly remarkable for its sustained debate and selection of material both through time and across space. * Hugh Clout, Cercles *
A unique look at Britain in a global context. ... Recommended. * M. K. Thompson, CHOICE *
Unlike any history book you've ever read. A Useful History of Britain is intellectually invigorating, politically vital and startlingly unique. You'll never look at British history in the same way again. * Ian Dunt *
Braddick is one of the most important historians writing today. Instead of looking at history as a linear story, he explores the various ways we have cooperated with each other, the gap between the individual and the common interest, and the institutional and power dynamics which emerged. You're left with a fundamentally different view of the past – and the present * Ian Dunt *
[Braddick's] account of arguments about the European Union is scrupulously balanced. * Lincoln Allison, Times Higher Education *
Table of ContentsPower over our world, power over each other Introduction: The history of political life on Britain 1: Political life: collective and differential power What needs to be done and what can be achieved 2: Mobilising ideas 3: Changing material conditions 4: Organizational capacity Patterns in the uses of political power 5: Political inclusion: who gets to make things happen? 6: Geographies of political power and identity: which groups take action for what purposes? 7: Change over time: phases in the history of political life Conclusion: Globalizing Britain's past: parallel and shared histories Further reading
