Britain Explained: Understanding British Identity

by Martin Upham

The 2016 EU referendum underlined Britain's differences from its continental neighbours. But it also demonstrated how this 'united' kingdom is in many ways very disunited. England and Wales voted one way, Northern Ireland and Scotland the other; and within England the provinces voted against London. Such divisions are nothing new. Clashing interests and identities are expressed in every aspect of British history and contemporary life - not only in politics, but in education, the economy, law, culture, sport, religion and social attitudes. Author Martin Upham spent many years explaining the complexities of British identity to Americans 'studying abroad' in London, where he was the director of AHA International (now GEO). This book is based on that experience. The result is a fascinating expedition that will entertain and educate not just students of British society and culture and those coming from abroad but also general readers concerned about the state of Britain - whether they are Brexiters or Remainers. Illustrated throughout.

Genres: Nonfiction

352 pages, Paperback

Published May 18, 2017

Reviews

[Chris · Rating 2 out of 5]

Useful information for someone traveling to London but inelegantly presented with no logical organization or fundamental thesis. Because of its immense breadth, each topic is addressed very cursorily and assumes a level of existing knowledge of Britain that is unlikely for someone who is likely to be reading the book in the first place. In the end, the book felt like a Cliff Notes version of every book on British history, culture and politics.