Radical Artisans in England and France, 1830-1870

by Iorwerth Prothero

Overview

The focus of this unique comparative study is on political radicalism at its high point around the middle of the nineteenth century, but broad topics such as trade unionism, cooperation, socialism, and religion are also examined in depth. The author argues that French and English radicalism did not stem directly from or reflect work and workplace relations, but instead drew upon work groups and organizations, material concerns, or social and religious groups. Radicalism, he argues, was part of everyday social life, the daily concerns of which affected its practice—though usually not its programs. Radicalism was also characterized by cultural diversity, although actual forms of organization and action usually depended strongly on the political context and strategic choices. The book also offers reinterpretations of specific developments and actions in both countries.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521582995
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	09/25/1997
Pages:	442
Product dimensions:	5.98(w) x 9.02(h) x 0.98(d)

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments; List of abbreviations; Introduction; 1. Artisans; 2. Radicalisms; 3. Trade unionism; 4. Work and radicalism; 5. Socialism; 6. Co-operation; 7. Class and radicalism; 8. Political action and organisation; 9. Education and civilisation; 10. Religions and philosophy; 11. The culture of radical clubs; Conclusion; Notes; Select bibliography; Index.

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

"In this superb study Prothero investigates the richness and complexity of 19th-century artisan radicalism....The author demonstrates that at the very time Marx claimed that being determines consciousness, nothing could have been further from the truth." Choice

"...Prothero has produced an important and informative book that historians will read with profit. Prothero offers the most comprehensive and thorough examinations of French and English radicalism yet written." Michael D. Sibalis, Canadian Jrnl of History

"...it is one that all historians conversant in the subject will wish to read." Marc W. Steinberg, Journal of Interdisciplinary History

Editorial Reviews

"In this superb study Prothero investigates the richness and complexity of 19th-century artisan radicalism....The author demonstrates that at the very time Marx claimed that being determines consciousness, nothing could have been further from the truth." Choice

"...Prothero has produced an important and informative book that historians will read with profit. Prothero offers the most comprehensive and thorough examinations of French and English radicalism yet written." Michael D. Sibalis, Canadian Jrnl of History

"...it is one that all historians conversant in the subject will wish to read." Marc W. Steinberg, Journal of Interdisciplinary History

From the Publisher