English Nationalism: A Short History

Englishness is an idea, a consciousness, and a proto-nationalism, but there is no English state within the UK. Jeremy Black looks to the past to understand the historical identity of England and what it means for English nationalism in a post-Brexit world. He questions whether the standard modern critique of politically partisan, or un-British, Englishness is merited and whether hostility to England is the principal driver of resurgent English nationalism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 07 June 2018
Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

Englishness is a multifaceted concept encompassing an idea, a consciousness, and a proto-nationalism. Despite the absence of an English state within the United Kingdom, there is no English passport, Parliament, or currency. However, it is important to note that this does not diminish England's identity. In fact, English nationalism, or at least a distinctive form of nationalism, has been shaped by the development of strident nationalisms in the British Isles that have challenged Britishness. This has led to a contested and evolving understanding of Englishness.

In order to understand the historical identity of England and its implications for English nationalism in the post-Brexit world, Jeremy Black delves into the past. He argues that English nationalism has a deep history, dating back to the Old English State and predating the Norman invasion. He questions whether the standard modern critique of politically partisan or un-British Englishness as extreme is warranted. Black also explores whether hostility to England, whatever it may signify, is the primary driver of resurgent English nationalism.

The Brexit referendum of 2016 initially appeared to have put Scottish and other nationalisms on the back burner. However, in practice, it has made Englishness a topic of particular interest and urgency. This short history aims to provide an overview of the origins and evolution of Englishness, shedding light on its complex and multifaceted nature.

Englishness is a concept that has evolved over centuries, shaped by various factors such as language, culture, history, and politics. It encompasses a shared sense of identity, values, and traditions that unite people from different regions and backgrounds within the United Kingdom. While there is no official English state, English nationalism has emerged as a response to the challenges posed by the development of other nationalisms in the British Isles.

One of the key aspects of English nationalism is its emphasis on language. English is the dominant language spoken in England, and it has played a significant role in shaping the country's identity. English nationalism advocates for the promotion and protection of the English language, often at the expense of other languages. This has led to debates about language policy and the status of non-English languages in the United Kingdom.

English nationalism also draws upon a rich cultural heritage that includes literature, music, art, and cuisine. The works of Shakespeare, Chaucer, and Dickens, for example, have become iconic symbols of Englishness, representing the country's literary and cultural achievements. Similarly, English music, from the Beatles to the Rolling Stones, has had a global impact, while English cuisine, such as fish and chips and roast beef, is known and loved worldwide.

Historically, English nationalism has been influenced by political and social factors. The Glorious Revolution of 1688, for instance, marked a significant moment in English history, as it established a constitutional monarchy and ended the rule. The Act

The Glorious Revolution of 1688, for instance, marked a significant moment in English history, as it established a constitutional monarchy and ended the rule. The Act of Union of 1707, which created the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, also played a crucial role in shaping English nationalism. While the Act brought together the kingdoms of England and Scotland, it also created a new political entity that was distinct from the previous kingdoms. This led to debates about the identity and sovereignty of England within the United Kingdom.

In recent years, English nationalism has been further fueled by the rise kingdom. The Brexit referendum of 2016, for example, highlighted the divisions within the United Kingdom over issues such as immigration, sovereignty, and the role of the European Union. The referendum resulted in the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union, which has led to debates about the future of English nationalism and the country's relationship with the rest of the world.

English nationalism has also been influenced by global trends and events. The rise of populism and nationalism in other parts of the world, for instance, has led to a renewed interest in English identity and culture. The COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the importance of national identity and the need for a strong sense of belonging, particularly during times of uncertainty and crisis.

Despite the challenges posed by the development of other nationalisms and the global trends and events, English nationalism remains a significant force in British politics and society. It is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses an idea, a consciousness, and a proto-nationalism. English nationalism advocates for the promotion and protection of the English language, draws upon a rich cultural heritage, and is shaped by political and social factors. It is a response to the challenges posed by the development of other nationalisms in the British Isles and is influenced by global trends and events.

While English nationalism has its critics, it is important to recognize that it is not a monolithic movement. There are different perspectives and interpretations of Englishness, and it is a dynamic and evolving concept that responds to the changing needs and aspirations of the people. English nationalism is not a threat to the unity of the United Kingdom, but rather a reflection of the country's diverse and complex history and culture.

In conclusion, Englishness is a multifaceted concept that encompasses an idea, a consciousness, and a proto-nationalism. It is a response to the challenges posed by the development of other nationalisms in the British Isles and is influenced by global trends and events. English nationalism is not a monolithic movement, but rather a reflection of the country's diverse and complex history and culture. While it has its critics, it is important to recognize that it is not a threat to the unity of the United Kingdom, but rather a reflection of the country's diverse and complex history and culture. As the United Kingdom continues to evolve, English nationalism will continue to shape and be shaped by the people and the events that unfold.

Weight: 468g
Dimension: 149 x 279 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781849049856