Long Way to Paradise: A New History of British Columbia Politics

The political landscape of British Columbia has been characterized by divisiveness since Confederation, with outsized personalities dominating the halls of power and militant radicals and reformers taking to the streets. A Long Way to Paradise traces the evolution of political ideas from 1871 to 1972 to explore British Columbias journey to socio-political maturity, answering why and how it became Canada's most fractious province.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 424 pages
\n Publication date: 24 November 2021
\n Publisher: University of British Columbia Press
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The political landscape of British Columbia has been characterized by a persistent sense of division since the province's confederation. Throughout this period, prominent figures such as Amor De Cosmos and W.A.C. Bennett have dominated the halls of power, while militant radicals and reformers have taken to the streets and hustings to express their grievances and push for change.

A Long Way to Paradise: Tracing the Evolution of Political Ideas in British Columbia, 1871 to 1972 is a comprehensive exploration of the province's journey toward socio-political maturity. Authored by Robert McDonald, the book seeks to answer the fundamental questions surrounding British Columbia's unique political dynamics. Why did the Liberal and Conservative parties face significant decline in the 1950s? What factors contributed to Bennett's decades-long reign as premier? And how did parties with seemingly opposing ideologies, such as Social Credit and the NDP, find success in the province?

McDonald's analysis delves into the historical roots of British Columbia's left-right divide, attributing it to the influence of "common sense" liberalism. This ideology, he argues, shaped not only the political landscape but also how British Columbians responded to the challenges of a rapidly modernizing world. By examining the evolution of political ideas and the shifting dynamics between different parties, A Long Way to Paradise offers a fresh perspective on the fascinating story of provincial politics in Canada's "lotus land."

The book explores a range of topics, including the rise and fall of political parties, the impact of social and economic policies, and the influence of individuals and ideologies on provincial politics. Through a series of engaging narratives and analysis, McDonald sheds light on the complex factors that have shaped British Columbia's political landscape and provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the province in the years to come.

In conclusion, A Long Way to Paradise is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the political history and dynamics of British Columbia. By exploring the province's journey to socio-political maturity, the book offers valuable insights into the complex factors that have shaped its political landscape and provides a roadmap for navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

\n Weight: 718g\n
Dimension: 164 x 236 x 33 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780774864718\n \n