I Read Books: The Edwardians
This history of the period of the reign of King Edward VII (1901-1910) delves into the so-called “long Edwardian” period, which ends in August 1914 and the start of World War I. It obviously also takes into account many developments of the late Victorian era. It’s by Roy Hattersley, the former Labour politician. There’s definitely a feel of his politics here, though more in emphasis than in agenda. Where it excels is tracing the links between the character and relationships of politicians and the minutiae of legislative and other manoeuvring.
Although there is a lot of political discussion, reaching into nearly every topic that has its own chapter, Hattersley looks at all levels of society. Drama, literature and especially sport are covered in interesting ways, teasing out themes and developments, making them good introductions. The concern with sport becoming professional – the difference between amateur Gentlemen and paid Players in cricket a clear example – links into the Edwardian period’s increasing professionalism all round. Yet there were still brilliant dilettantes who came in and made their mark.
Hattersley makes the case that the world of 20th Century Britain was made in the Edwardian period and although the war that ended it probably had at least as much influence, he clearly lays out the evidence of the seeds of what would come.
Read This: For a solid introduction to the period and people, especially politicians
Don’t Read This: For comprehensive information on topics other than the politics (and even there you can find plenty more in specific histories).
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