A History of the British Labour Party

British Studies Series

by Andrew Thorpe

The history of the British Labour party is a subject of abiding historical interest and obvious contemporary relevance. Of all subjects in modern history, it is one of the most fascinating but also one of the most controversial. Why was the Labour party formed? What were its aims, and how did it expect to achieve them? Why has it only ever had five periods in office? And how far can it be seen as a success or as a failure?In this stimulating new book, Andrew Thorpe tries to answer these and other questions. He shows that the party originated in the trade union movement's desire for greater representation, but that it also developed a wider significance as a political party pushing for substantial social and economic change. However, he also suggests that the successes of the party carried within them the seeds of their own undoing.The book covers the party's history from its foundation in 1900 until the election defeat of 1992, with further discussion of developments since then. The main events in the party's history are discussed, as are the leading personalities, such as MacDonald, Henderson, Attlee, Gaitskell, Wilson, Callaghan, Foot and Kinnock. This is not merely a study of 'high politics', for it tries to relate developments to wider influences within and beyond the confines of the Labour party.Andrew Thorpe's account will be valuable both to students and to any general readers who want to know where the Labour party came from and where it might be going.

Genres: History, Politics, British Literature, Nonfiction

312 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.