CHURCHILL COLD WAR WARRIOR

CHURCHILL COLD WAR WARRIOR

by Anthony Tucker-Jones.

Following the success of his 'Churchill: Master and Commander' book, historian Anthony Tucker-Jones makes a welcome return to the subject of Winston Churchill and the years following the second world war.

He begins by explaining how  decisions taken in talks with Stalin in both Moscow & Yalta, had shaped post war Europe. 

Despite Churchill's hatred of Communism, he inevitably played a huge part in many East European & Balkan countries being absorbed into the Soviet Union bloc.

The years following the end of the second world war, was a period of huge change both politically & geographically for many countries.

The end of British rule in India also saw the demise of Churchill's cherished British Empire, as well as the formation of Pakistan.

The conflict in Palestine would lead to the creation of the State of Israel.

Further East, another communist nation would rise with the People's Republic of China. 

Whilst closer to home, would Ireland's neutrality during the last war, still remain under a new Irish government?

1951 sees Winston's return to Downing Street at the age of 76. He inherits quite a list of problems following on from Atlee's government. The reader will learn a great deal about Malaya, Korea, Kenya & the Suez. 

This period would see the arrival of Eisenhower as President, soon followed by the death of Stalin. Churchill now hoped this would ease Cold War tensions. Instead the unrest around the Suez Canal would escalate, which would have a detrimental effect on both his health & his Premiership, as well as that of his successor, Anthony Eden. 

The arrival of Eisenhower delighted Churchill as he believed their wartime working relationship would be renewed. He was to be somewhat disappointed. Eisenhower & America had very different views on the British Empire & the future defence of Europe & had no intention of trusting the Soviets in any upcoming talks that Churchill hoped for.

Whilst Eisenhower certainly didn't always agree with Churchill, he still had a huge amount of respect for him. This was no better stated than with his speech on the day of Winston's funeral. 

Winston's life after the second world war & especially his second term as Prime Minister is often given a cursory mention in books. Too often summed up in just one final chapter.

This book proves that this period in Churchill's life deserves to be far better told. Anthony's compelling narrative of that life & his fascinating account of the historic changes around the globe, has provided me with a much valued history lesson.

This book is truly deserving of the highest praise.

The hardback version of the book is available now, published by Pen and Sword.

I thank Anthony for kindly sending me an early copy.