A History of the British Labour Party

British Studies Series

by Andrew Thorpe

Andrew Thorpe's book rapidly established itself as the leading single-volume history of the Labour Party. This second edition takes the story to 2000 with a new chapter on the development of "New Labour" and the Blair government. The reasons for the party's formation, its aims and achievements, its failure to achieve office more often, and its remarkable recovery since its problems in the 1980s, as well as key events and leading personalities, are all discussed.

Genres: History, Politics, British Literature, Nonfiction

327 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 1997

About the author

Andrew Thorpe, FRHistS, is Professor of Modern History and Pro Vice Chancellor and Executive Dean of the College of Humanities at the University of Exeter.

Reviews

[charlotte, · Rating 1 out of 5]

just so incredibly dry that i can't even say it was okay. maybe if i'd been able to stay awake even the slightest bit this would have been 2 stars but. alas. anyway, interesting to note the drift rightwards of labour is not a new phenomenon.

[Jason Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part of my pre election project to read the histories of the main three parties ; two down one to go. Again illuminating and changed some of my perceptions about which eras were and weren't a success .

[Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic overview of Labour history, perfect for beginners or seasoned historians, as it's extremely readable but very well researched and sourced (and quite fair on every leader thus far). I would love to read a future edition covering 2015-2019, too.

[Lord Bathcanoe of Snark · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story of a time when the Labour Party was actually relevant, with figures of real political stature.
So different to the present day confederation of pious political dunces like Calamity Lammy and Starmer the farmer harmer.
Dennis Healey would turn over in his grave.