Sir Arthur Nicolson, Bart, First Lord Carnock

This book explores the life of Sir Arthur Nicolson and British diplomacy leading up to the First World War, blending biography with historical analysis.

In Sir Arthur Nicolson, Bart, First Lord Carnock, readers are presented with a dual narrative that intertwines a biography of Harold Nicolson's father with a comprehensive history of British diplomacy from the late nineteenth century to the early years of the First World War. Sir Arthur Nicolson, often regarded as the quintessential diplomat, held numerous significant postings across Europe and beyond, including Berlin, Peking, and St. Petersburg. His diplomatic journey is marked by a notable evolution in his attitudes toward Germany, France, and Russia, reflecting the shifting political landscape of the time.

Harold Nicolson offers a thought-provoking perspective on the origins and causes of the First World War. His analysis distinguishes between the immediate triggers of the conflict and the long-standing historical grievances that contributed to it. As noted by biographer James Lees-Milne, Nicolson argues that from 1900 to 1914, Britain had a relatively clean slate compared to Germany, while acknowledging the darker historical actions of Britain from 1500 to 1900. This nuanced viewpoint challenges conventional narratives and provides a fresh lens through which to understand the complexities of the Great War.

Regarded by Harold Nicolson as his finest work, Sir Arthur Nicolson, Bart, First Lord Carnock received acclaim for its intimate biographical style, reminiscent of Lytton Strachey's approach. However, it transcends mere biography, serving as a captivating history of a pivotal era, making it a significant contribution to both diplomatic literature and historical scholarship.