William Pitt the Younger

by Eric J. Evans

William Pitt the Younger re-examines Pitt's career in the light of recent research and emphasizes that it should not be stereotyped as having a reformist' phase in the years to 1793 and a reactionary' phase thereafter.

His treatment includes explanation

* Pitt's rapid rise to power* the importance of his relations with George III* contemporary party politics, including his own description of himself as an independent Whig'* his administrative and financial reforms in the 1780s* his foreign policy and war strategy* his plans for assuring a satisfactory political union with Ireland and why they were frustrated.

This volume by Eric J. Evans, includes a complete historical background to the leader's political career and analyses his achievements. The author outlines Pitt's economic, domestic and foreign policy as well as detailing the changes in party politics and monarchy during the period.

Genres: History

91 pages, ebook

First published March 11, 1999

Reviews

[Betawolf · Rating 3 out of 5]

This _Lancaster Pamphlets_ publication covers the life of Britain's youngest ever Prime Minister, a figure who can in many ways be considered an archetypical troubled prodigy. Evans writes engagingly enough about his topic, but the coverage is more introductory than in-depth, and the book seems to be of more use as a starting point for the interested student.

There are many things such a student could follow up on. Operating in a time of political change as Pitt was, his biography touches on a number of broader movements which can be followed -- from the growing power of the political party to the rush of liberal radicalism provoked by the French Revolution. More closely, Pitt encountered a number of interesting characters in British politics, and their own biographies are suggested as appropriate further reading.

The sense of the man is one of a ideological moderate, preferred over others as a compromise, who was also capable enough to improve the effectiveness of Parliament. That said, the book more often talks of Pitt being plagued by failures and disasters than successful policies -- the war with France which negated Pitt's fiscal responsibility, and the hamstrung issue of Irish government. Evans tells us more than shows us that Pitt was a good leader.

As an introductory text for someone interested in the period or the man, this volume is highly suitable and readable. It lacks the detail that a serious student would expect, and the political rather than personal approach means it is unlikely to be interesting to someone not reading for historical interest.

[Robert · Rating 3 out of 5]

a sound survey of the man, his policies, and his place in British political history