North Wales Miners: A Fragile Unity, 1945-1996

by Keith Gildart

"Oral history and archival sources are used to provide a groundbreaking account of social, political, and industrial change in postwar Wales. Examined is the period between the nationalization of the coal industry in 1947 and its privatization in 1994. Through a detailed study of groups, individuals, and communities, the complex nature of work and politics during a period of momentous change in the British coalfield history is demonstrated. Particular attention is given to the politics of the National Union of Mineworkers, the role of the Labour Party, and the impact of pit closures on miners and their localities."

368 pages, Hardcover

First published January 9, 2002