In his day, `Josh' Wedgwood was one of Britain's best-known and most outspoken Radical politicians. He served in three wars, and, in a Parliamentary career lasting from 1906 to 1943, first with the Liberals, and then ... more abstractIn his day, `Josh' Wedgwood was one of Britain's best-known and most outspoken Radical politicians. He served in three wars, and, in a Parliamentary career lasting from 1906 to 1943, first with the Liberals, and then with Labour, he fought to uphold personal liberty and to limit the power of the state. Instead of the collectivism of socialists or social imperialists, Wedgwood advocated a Radical vision of Victorian Individualism as the solution to the problems of social inequality at home and growing threats abroad that Britain faced in the first half of the twentieth century. His support of individual freedom, a redistribution of landowner's wealth, and a voluntary and democratic British Empire received only limited support in his own lifetime, but he fought for them with vigour and passion throughout his career. This study of his life throws new light upon some of the defining ideological and policy issues of the most turbulent period of modern British history. Reviews An especially rich and nuanced account of one of the lesser figures of early 20th century politics, but one sometimes described as 'the last of the radicals'. [...] It offers a clear, sharp, and, at times, a very original, analysis of politics during these years, and of the role of Wedgwood within them. [...] Wedgwood has at last been well-served by a biography from a politically-attuned historian writing with sensitivity, and a strong sense of period. Antony Taylor, REVIEWS IN HISTORY this excellent book... meticulously researched, enjoyable to read and, at just over two hundred pages, exactly the right length for the subject matter. It can be recommended warmly to anyone interested in the politics of the period. Richard Toye, JOURNAL OF LIBERAL DEMOCRATIC HISTORY

Labour Party (UK), British History, Liberalism, British Empire, and British Imperialism

More Info: released on 15 September 2010

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