Vernon Bogdanor Libros

The history of Britain's complex relationship with Europe, untangled

Brexit means exit, but what exactly will we be leaving behind? Entry into the European Community in 1973 was a momentous event – one which had seismic effects on the politics and constitution of Britain. Brexit, while equally as momentous, has almost wholly been confined to discussions of economic consequence. But what will happen to the constitution? Beyond Brexit looks for the first time at the constitutional impact of Brexit and the consequences of Britain's EU membership, raising the question of just how the United Kingdom is to be preserved. Vernon Bogdanor explores the ever-changing relationship between Britain and the European Union from the original concept of European unity to 21st century Euroscepticism, the fundamental problems confronting Britain on its exit from the European Union, and argues that Brexit is the start of new beginnings – heralding a peaceful constitutional moment. The new preface includes what questions need to be asked now that Britain has started the process of leaving the European Union.

Focusing on the historical evolution of devolution in the United Kingdom, this book analyzes key political and constitutional developments from Gladstone's Home Rule advocacy in 1886 to the 1998 legislation that established the Scottish Parliament and Welsh Assembly. It provides a reasoned examination of the topic, shedding light on the implications of these changes as a significant constitutional development in contemporary Britain. Essential for those seeking to grasp the complexities of devolution's impact on the UK's political landscape.

The book explores the impact of six influential politicians in post-war British politics who shaped significant societal changes despite never holding high office. It delves into their strategies and ideologies, highlighting how their actions and ideas resonated throughout the political landscape, ultimately affecting the lives of citizens. Through these profiles, the study reveals the power of influence and the importance of political thought beyond traditional leadership roles.

The years of 1895 to 1914 changed Britain's political landscape for ever. In this wide-ranging and sometimes controversial survey, one of our pre-eminent political historians dispels the popular myths that have grown up about this critical period in Britain's story and argues that it set the scene for much that is laudable about our nation today.