Mountbatten, Cold War and Empire, 1945-79

Mountbatten, Cold War, and Empire 1945-79 examines Admiral Lord Mountbatten's role in Britain and its empire, from Churchill's wartime coalition to the Labour governments of the 1960s. It focuses on the debates over Mountbatten's record in Southern Asia and his pivotal role in key post-war events. Smith's thorough examination of primary sources, including those available in the Broadlands Archives, provides a comprehensive overview of Mountbatten's career from 1943 to the mid-sixties.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 15 December 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Mountbatten, Cold War and Empire 1945-79 is a comprehensive biography of Admiral Lord Mountbatten, a pivotal figure in the history of Britain and its empire from the end of World War II to the mid-1970s. The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different period of Mountbatten's life and career. The first part examines his role in the British government during the Second World War, including his appointment as the Supreme Allied Commander in South East Asia and his involvement in the planning of the D-Day landings. The second part covers his tenure as the Viceroy of India, during which he played a key role in the partition of India and the establishment of Pakistan. The third part explores his role as the First Sea Lord and Chief of the Defence Staff under Harold Macmillan and his immediate successors, including his involvement in the Suez Crisis and the renewal of an ostensibly independent nuclear deterrent.

One of the key themes of the book is Mountbatten's relationship with Anthony Eden, both during and following the Suez Crisis. Smith provides a detailed account of their relationship, including their disagreements over policy and their personal relationship. He also examines Mountbatten's achievements as First Sea Lord and Chief of the Defence Staff, including his role in the development of the Royal Navy's nuclear deterrent and his efforts to modernize the British military.

Smith's book is based on extensive research and analysis of primary sources, including those available in the Broadlands Archives. He has conducted numerous interviews with individuals who knew Mountbatten, including his family, colleagues, and political opponents. This has allowed him to provide a detailed and nuanced account of Mountbatten's life and career.

One of the strengths of the book is Smith's ability to present a balanced and objective account of Mountbatten's life and career. He does not shy away from discussing Mountbatten's controversial actions, such as his involvement in the Suez Crisis, but he also provides a context for these actions and shows how they were influenced by the political and military climate of the time.

However, the book does have some limitations. One of the main criticisms is that it can be quite dense and difficult to read at times. Smith's writing style can be quite academic and technical, and some readers may find it difficult to follow. Additionally, the book does not cover all aspects of Mountbatten's life and career, such as his personal life and his relationships with other members of the royal family.

Despite these limitations, Mountbatten, Cold War and Empire 1945-79 is a valuable contribution to the history of Britain and its empire. It provides a detailed and nuanced account of Mountbatten's life and career, and it sheds light on the complex and often controversial issues that he faced during his time in office. Smith's scrupulous examination of primary sources has resulted in a thorough examination of a controversial figure, and his book is sure to be of interest to historians and political enthusiasts alike.

In conclusion, Mountbatten, Cold War and Empire 1945-79 is a comprehensive biography of Admiral Lord Mountbatten, a pivotal figure in the history of Britain and its empire from the end of World War II to the mid-1970s. The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different period of Mountbatten's life and career. Smith's book is based on extensive research and analysis of primary sources, and it provides a balanced and objective account of Mountbatten's life and career. While it does have some limitations, it is a valuable contribution to the history of Britain and its empire and is sure to be of interest to historians and political enthusiasts alike.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350230262