Politics and the People: A History of British Democracy Since 1918 [Illustrated] [Hardcover]

"'A good, racy read.' Anthony Howard, Sunday Times Books of the Year 'This survey of British political crises is invaluable... Full of lessons for politicians in the 21st century and a fascinating read in its own right.' Denis Healey, BBC History magazine 'There are, as this fascinating book illustrates, turning points in politics that hang on what Harold Macmillan famously described as "events, dear boy, events".' Financial Times"

In "Politics and the People", Kevin Jefferys traces the history of modern British democracy through the eyes of its people. It is the first full-scale history of popular politics, from the inception in 1918 of enfranchisement as we know it, to voter apathy and low turnout in 2005. Jefferys interrogates questions such as: was there ever a 'golden age' of public political involvement? And if so, what has caused its decline over the last few years? Through his analysis of how, why and when the British public have voted, Kevin Jefferys offers fresh insight into our relationship with politicians, demanding a thought-provoking rethink of our political history.

Kevin Jefferys lectures in history at Plymouth University. He is the author of several works on post-war British politics, including The Labour Party Since 1945 (1993), Retreat from New Jerusalem: British Politics 1951-64 (1997) and edited Leading Labour: From Keir Hardle to Tony Blair (1999). Atlantic Books published Finest and Darkest Hours to critical acclaim in 2002.