Margaret Thatcher: The Authorized Biography, Volume Two: Everything She Wants

The second volume of Charles Moore's authorized biography of Margaret Thatcher covers her years as prime minister from 1983 to 1987, including her victory in the 1983 election, her handling of the Miners' Strike, and her role in world politics, such as her relationship with Mikhail Gorbachev and Ronald Reagan. The book provides unprecedented access to Thatcher's private and government papers and reveals her as a public performer, anxious mother, workaholic, and the first woman in western democratic history to dominate her country.

Format: Hardback
Length: 880 pages
Publication date: 02 December 2021
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The captivating second volume of Charles Moore's highly acclaimed authorized biography delves into the remarkable life and political career of Margaret Thatcher, Britain's first woman prime minister. Spanning from June 1983 to the early 1988, this pivotal period witnessed Thatcher's historic victory in the British general election, resulting in the largest increase in a government's parliamentary majority in British electoral history.

As Charles Moore intricately unfolds in this central installment of his unparalleled authoritative biography, Britain's first woman prime minister reshaped the course of her country's history and left an indelible mark on the global stage. Her unwavering determination and force of will propelled her forward, driving significant changes that reverberated across the nation and beyond.

The book unveils previously unseen aspects of Thatcher's remarkable journey. It delves into her unwavering resilience in navigating the tumultuous Miners' Strike, her transformative relations with Europe, the privatization of key industries, and the revitalization of the British economy. Through vivid storytelling, Moore vividly portrays Thatcher's role on the world stage, highlighting her strategic interactions with figures such as Mikhail Gorbachev before his rise to Soviet Union leadership and her unwavering commitment to her ideological soulmate, Ronald Reagan.

Notably, Thatcher's influence extended beyond Britain's borders. She played a central role in shaping global affairs, ensuring that Britain maintained a prominent position among the superpowers. Her unwavering determination and diplomatic skills led to fruitful negotiations and agreements, contributing to a more stable and prosperous international landscape.

However, Thatcher's journey was not without its challenges. Despite her remarkable achievements, she faced numerous obstacles and setbacks. The book candidly explores the complexities of her relationships, both personal and political. It sheds light on the two-timing of her close ally, Ronald Reagan, during the US invasion of Grenada, as well as the scandalous Westland affair that nearly led to her resignation. Thatcher also faced isolation within her own government over Europe, disagreements with the Queen over the Commonwealth and South Africa, and confrontations with senior colleagues, which sometimes resulted in bullying behavior.

Undoubtedly, Thatcher's legacy remains a subject of intense debate and analysis. Charles Moore's unparalleled access to Thatcher's private and government papers has provided a wealth of information and insights into her life and political career. The participants in the events described have been interviewed extensively, offering a firsthand account of the events and their impact.

In conclusion, Charles Moore's captivating second volume of Margaret Thatcher's authorized biography offers a profound and comprehensive exploration of her remarkable life and political career. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Moore provides a deep understanding of Thatcher's achievements, challenges, and enduring impact on Britain and the world. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in political history, leadership, and the forces that shape societies.

Weight: 1524g
Dimension: 169 x 246 x 58 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241573587