Description
Book SynopsisUpdated to incorporate a substantial new epilogue considering Brexit and its âimperialâ implications, the sixth edition of The Lionâs Share remains an essential introduction to British imperialism from its Victorian heyday to the present.
Well-known for its vigorous and readable style, this book presents a broad narrative of events and explores a number of general themes, challenging more conventional and popular interpretations of British imperialism, as well as the simplistic âforâ and âagainstâ arguments put forward in todayâs âhistory warsâ. Bernard Porter sees imperialism as a symptom not of Britain's strength in the world, but of her decline, and he argues that the empire itself both aggravated and obscured deep-seated malaise in the British economy. This sixth edition includes a final epilogue that engages with what Brexit means for British Imperial History, and whether it represents an extension of or final conclusion to Britainâs Imperial Career. In so doing, the book offers readers a thorough understanding of the history of British imperialism and its heritage, extending right into the present day.
Supported by maps, images and an updated chronology, The Lionâs Share is the perfect resource for both students and those interested in British and Imperial History from the Victorian era to the modern day.
Table of Contents1. Introduction 2. An empire in all but name: the mid-nineteenth century 3. Shifts and expedients: 1857–75 4. Conquests forced on us: 1875–90 5. Struggles for existence: 1890 6. A limited area of heather alight: 1890–1905 7. An essential compromise: 1905–14 8. Everything becomes fluid: 1914–20 9. Difficult times: 1920–39 10. Moving quickly: 1939–70 11. A sudden shift: 1970–95 12. Coming out of the closet: circa 2000 13. After-image 14. Brexit and the Empire
