1939: The Last Season

A wonderful portrait of British upper-class life in the Season of 1939, the last before the Second World War. The young debutante daughters of the upper classes were presented to the King and Queen, and influential people from Society and Government gathered at social events. As the hot summer drew on, reports of the progress towards war filled the newspapers, but there was nothing to do but wait and dance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2022
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

A captivating portrayal of British upper-class life in the enchanting Season of 1939, a momentous period preceding the onset of the Second World War. The Season of 1939 brought together the esteemed members of Society in the vibrant city of London. The young debutante daughters of the upper classes, adorned in their finest attire, were presented to the King and Queen, symbolizing their transition into the adult world of their affluent parents. With grace and charm, they graced a series of glamorous balls, enchanting parties, and thrilling sporting events, captivating all who witnessed their presence. The Season brought together a diverse array of influential figures, not only from Society but also from the Government, who graced the various events of the social calendar. Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, accompanied by his debutante niece, enjoyed weekend house parties, while Lord Halifax, the Foreign Secretary, indulged in luncheons with the esteemed Headmaster of Eton. Cabinet Ministers mingled with foreign Ambassadors at grand balls hosted by the renowned hostesses of the time. As the scorching summer unfolded, the newspapers brimmed with increasingly foreboding reports of the relentless march toward war. Yet, amidst this looming uncertainty, there remained a sense of resilience and celebration. The last season of peace teetered on the brink, and the people of London embraced the opportunity to revel in the splendor and glamour that the Season had to offer.

Weight: 268g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474625135