Gladstone and the Liberal Party [Hardcover]

With a public career spanning 62 years, Gladstone dominated the Victorian political arena. Yet he remains an enigmatic figure; a high Anglican, Tory protectionist who became leader of the Liberals, a party associated with free trade and religious Nonconformity. Michael Winstanley examines both Gladstone and the environment in which he operated, concentrating in particular on the political and social composition of the party which he led. He argues that the parliamentary `Gladstonian Liberals' were far from unqualified supporters of Gladstone and that much of his power was derived from his popularity amongst the electorate. He concludes with an assessment of Gladstone's achievements and his political legacy.Examines the enviroment in which Gladstone operated, concentrating in particular on the political and social nature of the Liberal party, which he led.` ... most welcome not only for students of nineteenth-century British history but also, I suspect, for many teachers of this period too. Whilst being wonderfully short, providing a fine and readable overview, it nevertheless covers an immense amount of ground.' - History ReviewForeword; Chronological table of events; Chapter 1 Interpretations of Gladstone; Chapter 2 The Liberals; Chapter 3 Gladstone and the Liberals, 185974; Chapter 4 Doubts, desertions and decline: 188094; Chapter 5 ConclusionUS? 1990 Michael J. Winstanley