Labour, British radicalism and the First World War

Product Description
This book provides a concise set of thirteen essays looking at various aspects of the British left, movements of protest and the cumulative impact of the First World War. There are three broad areas this work intends to make a contribution to; the first is to help us further understand the role the Labour Party played in the conflict, and its evolving attitudes towards the war; the second strand concerns the notion of work, and particularly women’s work; the third strand deals with the impact of theory and practice of forces located largely outside the United Kingdom. Through these essays this book aims to provide a series of thirteen bite-size analyses of key issues affecting the British left throughout the war, and to further our understanding of it in this critical period of commemoration.
Review
'A welcome reminder that the First World War was experienced in myriad ways and with far reaching consequences. ... A thought-provoking and worthwhile read.'
Social History 'This collection certainly extends our knowledge of the changing landscape of British radicalism and socialism during the war and is an excellent addition to our growing knowledge of the First World War.'
Labour History Review
From the Back Cover
This volume offers thirteen essays considering the First World War's impact on British life, from the parliamentary left to women and work. Based on new archival research, it offers bite-sized analyses of several issues that remain of critical importance to the development of modern Britain. Featuring chapters on both the Labour Party and the wider trade union movement at local and national levels, the book considers debates over the righteousness of conflict, discussing figures such as Ramsay MacDonald, Philip Snowden, and Arthur Henderson. Elsewhere, it looks at the evolving position of women through campaigners like Sylvia Pankhurst and Ellen Wilkinson, whilst also discussing the passage of legislation giving women the right to become Members of Parliament. Finally, it situates the British experience of the war through several transnational studies taking in Ireland, Russia, and the United States. Those interested in the eugenics movement or the role of cinema will also find much of value.
About the Author
Lucy Bland is Professor of Social and Cultural History at Anglia Ruskin University

Richard Carr is Senior Lecturer in History and Politics at Anglia Ruskin University