This throughly revised new edition of David Childs' readable text offers a detailed yet succinct account of Britain's recent history. An introductory chapter focuses on the inter-war years, setting the scene for analysis of political, social and economic developments since 1939, including the impact of the Second World War, the last days of Empire, Ireland, the decline of the Conservatives and the Blair experience. Childs concludes that, despite the serious problems Britain faces, Britons are better off than ever in terms of prosperity and personal freedom.