A Short History of the British Labour Movement

There has long been a need for a new, readable and truly comprehensive history of the British trade union and labour movement. Filling that gap is a huge undertaking, but 40 years of teaching labour history, combined with 15 years as the director of the National Museum of Labour History, fitted Terry McCarthy well for it.

McCarthy has met many major players in the movement, and has a good memory for anecdote. McCarthy's knowledge and political perspective make this a unique and indispensable guide. The book does not shy away from the disputes within the movement, but provides a realistic account.