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A review by pavonini
Acts of Union and Disunion by Linda Colley
4.0
Perfect short guide to the union and tensions in the UK - where they came from and where we might be headed. Written pre-referendum, it talks about Scotland's vote in the future tense, but remains neutral on the matter.
Don't expect more from it than it can give - it's a primer, no more. Well-informed by the looks of it (not a historian but the author is an expert on Britain). Very easily digestible with perfectly sized chapters as it was a BBC radio series first, made in 15 minute segments. Don't confuse "digestible" with "bland" though, as it does have some bite. The author is very critical of aspects of the British Empire and the constant tendency to self-mythologise.
If you don't know where to start with Britain, I'd recommend this. It gives a good feel for the history and cuts through many stories we tell ourselves & the world.
Don't expect more from it than it can give - it's a primer, no more. Well-informed by the looks of it (not a historian but the author is an expert on Britain). Very easily digestible with perfectly sized chapters as it was a BBC radio series first, made in 15 minute segments. Don't confuse "digestible" with "bland" though, as it does have some bite. The author is very critical of aspects of the British Empire and the constant tendency to self-mythologise.
If you don't know where to start with Britain, I'd recommend this. It gives a good feel for the history and cuts through many stories we tell ourselves & the world.