A Spirit Undaunted: The Political Role of George VI

by Robert Rhodes James

Genres: History, Biography

384 pages, Paperback

First published November 12, 1998

About the author

Sir Robert Vidal Rhodes James (10 April 1933 – 20 May 1999) was a British historian who served as a Conservative Member of Parliament from 1976 until 1992.

Reviews

[Lindsey Meridith · Rating 4 out of 5]

One, if not the most remarkable people in my opinion is/was King George VI. When his brother, Edward VII carelessly acted briefly as king then essentially threw away his country for a woman, Bertie (George VI) was suddenly thrusted into being King.

Having a speech impediment and lacking self confidence, Kingship would be a nightmare of speeches, frequent public appearances, and difficult decisions. While there is very little information on King George VI, I found Robert Rhodes James novel incredibly informative and thoroughly researched.

While telling Bertie’s story, James discusses a topic that is even more unknown- Bertie’s political role. As someone who does not usually read about politics and is easily confused by the British politics in general, what struck me most was how James shared- how informed and involved with the government Bertie actually was.

Like many of us, we get on better with some people more so than others. James stated the same with Bertie. While he may not have had the best of working or personal relationships with some of his PM’s, he genuinely always TRIED to work with them and maintained his wishes to be informed.

This was a well-researched read. For how much information was provided, I was surprised at how “easy” it was to read (easy being a relative term). While many people are ‘gaga’ for royals, if one is interested in the political background of ones monarch, this is a book for you. Bertie, in a sense, is the underdog. Never expecting to be in the spotlight and wishing to remain relatively on the sidelines, when it was time for him to “grab the reins” of Britain, this quiet, self conscious, stammering man stepped forward and not only did the job, but help lead his country through WWII. A man many have not heard of unlike the names of Churchill and Roosevelt, he too, alongside these political figures, help guide Britain to victory.

[Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned that King George VI was probably the most conscientious monarch the United Kingdom ever had, and that he was often underestimated by much of the establishment. I liked the book which portrayed some of the late King's faults, but was a sympathetic account of a character that was paradoxically and simultaneously both a regal King-Emperor and a plain ordinary simple type of man who knew his very real limitations.

[James Leahey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting. A quick and easy read.