James Callaghan

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In November 1980, James Callaghan retired as leader of the Labour Party. He had been on the front line of British politics for many years and was the only person to hold all of the four great offices of state. However, his premiership is seen as a failure, the last gasp of Keynesian social democracy being smothered by the oncoming advent of Thatcherism. Moderates in the Labour Party failed to defend his premiership, with several breaking away to form the Social Democratic Party. The left were openly critical, accusing Callaghan and his government of betrayal. Later, New Labour were also keen to dismiss the achievements of the Callaghan government in order to demonstrate the differences between 'Old' and 'New' Labour. This book offers a timely reappraisal of Jim Callaghan's premiership and time as Leader of the Opposition in 1979-80. It follows on from three similar books, on Harold Wilson, John Major and Peter Shore, also published by Biteback as affordable hardbacks. With debates over the future of the Labour Party intensifying after the 2019 general election, this book reassessing the party's past will be important reading.

'This book provides real insights about an underrated Prime Minister who, in very challenging economic and political conditions, sustained minority government and social protection.' –  Lord Kinnock, former Leader of the Labour Party and Vice-President of the European Commission

'A brilliantly timed and conceived book. There is so much to enjoy and be stimulated by within its covers.' –  Sir Anthony Seldon, contemporary British historian and author of May at 10