Herbert Samuel: A Political Life / Edition 1

by Bernard Wasserstein

Overview

Herbert Samuel's extraordinarily long political career began in the age of Gladstone and ended in the era of Grimond. Wasserstein assesses the vital role played by Samuel in the survival of the Liberal Party and his part in translating that doctrine into legislation that laid the foundations of the welfare state. He played a central role in the history of Zionism, serving as first British High Commissioner in Palestine from 1920 to 1925. He returned to office in the National Government of 1931, and led the Liberal Party between 1931 and 1935. In later life Samuel established himself as a philosopher, a respected elder statesman, and a much admired broadcaster. Wasserstein's scholarly and readable biography, based on extensive research in all the available sources, provides a rounded portrait of a leading twentieth-century political figure.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780198226482
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	03/19/1992
Pages:	444
Product dimensions:	6.38(w) x 9.50(h) x 1.35(d)

About the Author

Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts

Editorial Reviews

"Well-researched and well-written....Wasserstein's first-rate biography of this twentieth-century liberal politician will be of considerable interest to scholars of modern British history and politics."—History: Reviews of New Books

"An exemplary political biography. In clear prose he explains the developments, many of major historical importance, that engaged his subject's attention....In describing Samuel's life, this excellent work of scholarship will also guide readers through the mazes of British politics during the first half of the 20th century."—CHOICE

"A valiant and scholarly attempt to present as warm and interesting a man who was basically a cold fish....Wasserstein explores an impressive array of sources, writes lucidly, and shows a sure grasp of all the relevant major historical debates."—Times Higher Education Supplement

"Meticulously researched...Clearly the work of many years."—The Sunday Times (London)

"Wasserstein has written a flawless study of Samuel."—The Sunday Telegraph

"An exemplary account."—Times Literary Supplement

"This carefully researched book yields a vivid image of the man."—The Jerusalem Post International Edition

"He has certainly brought Samuel to life in these pages, a considerable achievement in view of Samuel's own remoteness and aloofness....Benard Wasserstein has served Samuel well."—Mainstream

From the Publisher