About the book:
A sweeping, authoritative account of the empire from its earliest days to its dissolution how it was built, how it functioned, and what it cost.
James writes with impressive range and doesn't shy from the contradictions.
Essential reading for anyone serious about modern history.
Abacus paperback.
Condition:
Good secondhand condition.
Follow the link below to view our other listings:
https://www.bobshop.co.za/seller/5375758/Orphan_Books
About the author:
Lawrence James (1943 to present)
Born in 1943 in England, Lawrence James is a British historian and writer specializing in imperial, military, and colonial history. Educated at the University of York and later at the University of Oxford, he taught history for many years before becoming a full-time author. His work is known for its clear, narrative-driven style and willingness to tackle large, controversial subjects with scholarly rigour and readability.
His major success came with sweeping histories such as The Rise and Fall of the British Empire (1994), Raj: The Making and Unmaking of British India (1997), and The Savage Wars of Peace (on the British Army). James writes accessible, large-scale narrative history that combines political, military, and social perspectives, often challenging romanticized views of empire while acknowledging its complexities.
Deeply influenced by the grand narrative tradition of historians like Thomas Babington Macaulay and the more critical imperial historiography of the 20th century, James in turn became one of the most widely read popular historians of the British Empire. He is adjacent to (and often compared with) authors like Niall Ferguson, Piers Brendon, and Jan Morris in the field of imperial and British history, influencing readers and writers interested in accessible, opinionated narrative history.
Recurring preoccupations include the realities of imperial power (both its achievements and brutalities), the British Armys role in empire, the cultural and political impact of colonialism, and the long-term consequences of Britains global dominance. Major works include The Rise and Fall of the British Empire, Raj, Churchill: A Life, and The Aristocrats.
James continues to write and remains a prominent voice in debates about Britains imperial past.
Lawrence Jamess influence lies in making complex imperial history readable and engaging for general audiences while maintaining scholarly credibility. He helped shape modern popular understanding of the British Empire while remaining distinctive in his balanced, narrative-driven approach.
