British Nuclear Mobilisation Since 1945: Social and Cultural Histories

This book explores the social and cultural history of nuclear Britain in the Cold War era, highlighting the consequences of nuclear choices that are often overlooked by historians. It reveals how the British government mobilized resources to develop an independent nuclear deterrent and generate electricity through nuclear reactors, shaping British life in significant ways.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 132 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate tapestry of social and cultural history during the Cold War era in Britain, shedding light on the profound impact of nuclear choices that have often been overlooked by historians of post-war Britain. Spanning from 1945 to 1991, this era witnessed the government's unwavering commitment to building a robust nuclear deterrent and harnessing the power of nuclear reactors for electricity generation. This ambitious and highly secretive "technopolitical project," meticulously managed by small sub-committees within the government, played a pivotal role in shaping Cold War strategy and policy on a global scale. Recent efforts to chart the intricate social and cultural contours of these military-industrial policy decisions have revealed a staggering range of consequences that reverberated throughout British society.

The chapters included in this book originally appeared as a special issue of Contemporary British History, showcasing the depth of scholarship and analysis that this subject demands. Each chapter offers a fresh perspective, drawing from a diverse range of sources and methodologies to unravel the complex web of social, economic, and political factors that shaped the nuclear era in Britain.

One of the key themes that emerges from this book is the profound impact of nuclear mobilization on British society. The development of the nuclear deterrent and the establishment of nuclear power plants not only altered the country's geopolitical landscape but also had a profound effect on everyday life. The book explores the ways in which nuclear technology shaped public perceptions, influenced cultural norms, and impacted social structures. It examines the ways in which individuals and communities responded to the nuclear threat, both in terms of their fears and hopes, and the ways in which they negotiated the complex ethical and political dilemmas that accompanied the nuclear age.

Another important aspect of this book is its exploration of the broader Cold War context in which nuclear Britain operated. The book situates the country's nuclear aspirations within the broader geopolitical tensions of the era, examining the ways in which Britain's nuclear capabilities influenced its relations with other nations and the international community. It explores the complex interplay between military power, international diplomacy, and domestic politics, and the ways in which these factors shaped the country's nuclear policy and strategy.

The book also sheds light on the enduring legacies of the nuclear era in Britain. It examines the ways in which the nuclear industry and the nuclear waste it generated have impacted the environment and public health, and the challenges that the country continues to face in managing these long-term consequences. It also explores the ways in which the nuclear legacy has shaped British identity and culture, and the ways in which it continues to resonate in contemporary society.

In conclusion, this book is a vital contribution to the field of history, offering a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the social and cultural history of nuclear Britain in the Cold War era. It sheds light on the profound impact of nuclear choices that have often been overlooked by historians, and provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex web of factors that shaped this critical period in British history. By delving into the social and cultural dimensions of nuclear mobilization, this book offers a valuable perspective on the consequences of nuclear choices and contributes to a more multivalent exploration of the post-war world.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367743154