Explore 'The Labour Governments 1964-1970 Volume 2', a critical examination of Britain's international policies during the transformative Labour era of the 1960s. This essential paperback, released by Manchester University Press in 2008, provides a comprehensive analysis of the key events that shaped Britain's position on the global stage under Prime Minister Harold Wilson and his government. Delve into topics like defence policy, European integration, NATO, and the Vietnam War, as author John Young utilizes newly available archival evidence to present a more nuanced perspective on the challenges these governments faced.

This book is more than just a recount of political history; it critically evaluates the decisions made during a time when Britain was navigating economic weakness and military decline amidst Cold War tensions. Young's insights reveal the complexities behind what often seemed like unfulfilled promises from Wilson's government. Not only does this volume shed light on Vietnam, but it also discusses other critical conflicts like Aden, the Nigerian civil war, and Rhodesia, illustrating how these international pressures influenced domestic policies.

Students, historians, and enthusiasts of British history will find this book crucial for understanding the long-lasting impact of the Labour governments’ international strategies. Combined with the other volumes in this series focusing on domestic and economic policy, it provides a holistic view of governance during an extraordinary period in British history. Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled. Condition: BRAND NEW. ISBN: 9780719080418.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780719080418
Year: 2008
Publisher: Manchester University Press


Description:


This book is the second in the three volume set The Labour governments 1964-1970 and concentrates on Britain's international policy under the Labour governments in the 1960s and is available for the first time in paperback.

The coverage ranges from defence policy and the government machine to European integration, NATO and the Vietnam war. Harold Wilson and his ministers have often been accused of betraying the sense of promise that greeted their victory in 1964. Using recently released archival evidence, John Young argues that a more balanced view of the government will recognise the real difficulties that surrounded decision-making, not only on Vietnam, but also on Aden, the Nigerian civil war and Rhodesia.

Economic weakness, waning military strength, Cold War tensions and the need to placate allies all placed limits on what a once-great but now clearly declining power could achieve. Furthermore the government proved of pivotal importance in the history of Britain's international role, in that it presided over a major shift from positions East of Suez to a focus on European concerns, a focus that has remained until the present day.

The book will be of vital importance to students of British history and international relations during this exciting period. Together with the other books in the series, on domestic policy and economic policy, it provides a complete picture of the development of Britain under the premiership of Harold Wilson. -- .