Shadow of the Mine: Coal and the End of Industrial Britain

The miners were the embodiment of the industrial age, with coal being central to the British economy and carrying political weight. In the 1980s, they risked everything in a strike against Thatcher's shutdowns, but defeat foretold the death of their industry. Huw Beynon and Ray Hudson's book "The Shadow of the Mine" chronicles these changes through the words of those who lived through them, highlighting the impact of Thatcher's policies on mining communities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 29 June 2021
Publisher: Verso Books

The miners truly embodied the essence of the industrial age, leaving an indelible mark on the world. Their story, intricately woven in The Shadow of the Mine, unveils the captivating tale of King Coal during its prosperous era and the profound impact it had on mining communities after the closure of the last pits. Coal, a vital component of the British economy, propelled its factories and railways, wielding significant political influence as well. In the 1980s, the miners bravely embarked on a year-long strike against Thatcher's shutdowns, risking everything in their fight for survival. Their defeat, unfortunately, served as a grim omen, signaling the imminent demise of their industry. Tens of thousands of workers were suddenly thrust into the labor market, with minimal guidance and support. However, what is truly remarkable is the sudden shift in British politics, with the coalfield constituencies that overwhelmingly supported Boris Johnson's Conservatives in 2019 now taking center stage. Even in the Welsh Valleys, where the iconic "red wall" still stands, support for the Labour Party has witnessed a significant decline over the past generation. To unravel these momentous changes, Huw Beynon and Ray Hudson have delved into decades of extensive research, drawing upon the firsthand accounts of those who lived through these pivotal moments. Through their narratives, readers are transported back in time, allowing them to witness the seismic shifts that shaped the landscape of industrial Britain. The Shadow of the Mine serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of the miners and their profound impact on the history of our nation.

Weight: 620g
Dimension: 244 x 161 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839761553