Britain and Europe: A Political History Since 1918

This textbook provides a comprehensive account of Britain’s uneasy relationship with continental Europe from 1918 to the present day.
Unlike other books on the subject, the author considers 'Europe' in its broadest sense and examines a wider history than just Britain's relations with the European Union (EU). This includes pre-war history and the role of key political institutions outside the EU such as the Council of Europe and the Western European Union.
Subjects covered include:


how the experience of the inter-war years and the Second World War helped shape attitudes towards the EU
european perspectives on Britain as well as the other way round
key theories on European integration
the changing nature of Britain's global role
issues of sovereignty and legitimacy
the role of political parties and the Europeanisation of national government
the rise of Euroscepticism in British politics and how ‘Europe’ has become entwined in the ideological battles of the main political parties.
Exploring the political, diplomatic and military relationship between Britain and Europe, this accessible and wide-ranging textbook is essential core reading for students of British and European history and politics.

Nicholas Crowson is Senior Lecturer in Modern History at the University of Birmingham, UK. He is the author of 3 books and numerous journal articles.

Introduction 1. Inter-War Years 1918-1939 2. The Post-War Settlement 1940-61 3. The Application Phase 1961-75 4. Britain in Europe: From EEC to EU, 1975-97 5. Europe and New Labour 1997-2010