This clear and thought-provoking examination of the years from Queen Victoria's accession to the close of the century, pays particular attention to the post-1875 period.

“This is a clear and thought-provoking examination of the years from Queen Victoria's accession to the close of the nineteenth century, devoting rather more space than is usual to the last two decades of the reign. With much liveliness of mind, Mr Seaman considers many of the social, political and Imperial issues of the period. He begins with a balanced appraisal of the significance and persistence of Victorian religion, and goes on to consider the economic and social problems of the early and late periods in a manner which, it is hoped, will help those who are not social scientists to understand the importance of the 'Age of Steam' as well as of the public health and other social legislation of the reign, and to acquire a clearer understanding of what is called 'The Great Depression'. He provides a realistic presentation of the personalities and policies of the Queen's most celebrated ministers, and, inevitably, of the Queen herself, and closely scrutinizes the ideas and events associated with Victorian Imperialism, attempting in his analysis to correct several misconceptions. Sixth-form students and first-year undergraduates should find Victorian England readable, informative and, on occasion, challenging, and those who have an interest in this fascinating but often misunderstood period will find much to enjoy.”-Publisher.

This book traces the often sharply differing perspectives historians have formed with regard to the key incidents in the careers of the two foremost politicians of the Victorian age – Gladstone and Disraeli. Following the parallel careers of both men, it focuses upon a series of contentious questions, ranging from why Disraeli opposed Corn Law repeal in 1846 and Gladstone abandoned his High Tory politics for Peelism, to whether Disraeli was ever an Imperialist and why Gladstone took up the cause of Irish Home Rule. By juxtaposing the contrasting interpretations advocated by historians, it brings home to students how history is a continually evolving subject in which every generation poses new questions, or reformulates answers to old ones – encouraging those studying the subject to realise that history is an ongoing dialogue to which they are called upon to contribute.

This book is a comprehensive review of the political career of Benjamin Disraeli, providing a thorough critical analysis of one of the most ambitious and controversial leaders in British history. ‘Disraeli and the Art of Victorian Politics’ is a major addition to our understanding of the dynamics of nineteenth-century politics.

This comprehensive and versatile reference source will be a most important tool for anyone wishing to seek out information on virtually any aspect of British affairs, life and culture. The resources of a detailed bibliography, directory and journals listing are combined in this single volume, forming a unique guide to a multitude of diverse topics - British politics, government, society, literature, thought, arts, economics, history and geography. Academic subjects as taught in British colleges and universities are covered, with extensive reading lists of books and journals and sources of information for each discipline, making this an invaluable manual.