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Seeking a Role

The United Kingdom 1951--1970

Brian Harrison author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Oxford University Press

Published:26th Mar '09

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Seeking a Role cover

This book offers an in-depth exploration of Britain in the 1950s and 60s, examining its societal changes and evolving identity. Seeking a Role captures a transformative era.

In Seeking a Role, Brian Harrison presents a comprehensive analysis of post-war Britain during the 1950s and 60s. This period is marked by significant transitions, as the nation navigates its identity in a rapidly changing world. Harrison delves into diverse aspects of British life, from international relations and political structures to family dynamics and cultural life. The narrative begins in 1951, when Britain still held much of its empire and maintained a strong position in Europe, showcasing a welfare state that balanced elements of Soviet planning with American free-market ideals.

As the book progresses, Harrison examines the decline of Britain's global influence and the challenges faced by its political system by 1970. The empire's dissolution and the difficulties of central planning reflect a country in search of its new identity. Rather than solely focusing on politicians, Harrison emphasizes the choices made by ordinary Britons. He explores how individuals shaped their environment, social structures, and cultural opportunities, leading to a transformation in societal attitudes and family patterns.

By the end of the volume, the emergence of a consumer society signifies a departure from post-war austerity. The fading socialist vision and the vibrant cultural shifts of the 1960s introduce new themes and values to the forefront of British life. Seeking a Role ultimately portrays a nation that, despite losing its empire, continues to seek a meaningful place in the world, reflecting resilience and adaptability in the face of change.

there is a hugely impressive breadth of reference and eye for detail on display here. * Lawrence Black, Journal of Modern History, on Seeking a Role and Finding a Role? *
These two magisterial volumes... [Seeking a Role and Finding a Role?]... offer a consistently stimulating and formidably well-informed analysis of the condition of England since 1950, as it was shaped both by the wider world and its own internal development. * Richard Whiting, History *
He provides a huge flow of information on almost all topics...all treated in fascinating detail. * Kenneth O.Morgan, Literary Review *
Harrison has a special gift which historians prize. He can turn the grains of history into fascinating and convincing patterns. * Peter Hennessy, Times Literary Supplement *
Full of surprising details and impressive insights. * Dominic Sandbrook, Sunday Times *
Seeking a Role is not only vastly informative, but it is also a terrific read. * Peter Weiler, Twentieth Century British History *
A wonderfully readable summation of this crucial and endlessly fascinating period of Britain's recent past...a masterly account * Matthew Grant, Political Quarterly *
Magnificent if demanding history... all couched in an enviable prose style...the reader comes away from the text with a sense that he or she has learnt the history of a people, not just of its elite. * Neal Blewett, Australian Book Review *
A sweeping assessment of British history... Comprehensive and thorough...the definitive starting point for any student or academic wishing to engage with this complex and fascinating period. * LIMINA: A Journal of Historical and Cultural Studies, on Seeking a Role and Finding a Role? *
No short review can do justice to the richness and complexity of this book ... A major achievement of modern historical analysis * D.L.LeMahieu, CHOICE *

ISBN: 9780198204763

Dimensions: 241mm x 165mm x 40mm

Weight: 1196g

698 pages