STORMY PETREL: Aaron Ernest Gompertz and the rise of the South Shields Labour Party

At the turn of the century, most working-class men voted for the Liberal Party, and Trades Union leaders were staunch Liberals. This book tells the story of the campaign in South Shields to establish a successful Labour Party, and the key role of Aaron Ernest Gompertz in that struggle. Gompertz devoted his life to establishing an electorally powerful Labour Party in South Shields and saw its rise in the post-war period to become the dominant force in local politics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 29 June 2023
Publisher: The Self-Publishing Partnership Ltd

It is commonly believed that the Labour Party's ascendancy to become one of Britain's two dominant political parties in the early to mid-20th century was a foregone conclusion. However, this assumption is misleading. At the turn of the century, the majority of working-class men in Britain voted for the Liberal Party, and a significant portion of local and national Trades Union leaders were staunch Liberals.

This book delves into the remarkable story of a campaign in one area, South Shields on Tyneside, to establish a successful Labour Party. It highlights the pivotal role played by one man, Aaron Ernest Gompertz, in this struggle. Gompertz was an orator, organizer, and Parliamentary Agent to the town's first Labour MP, James Chuter Ede, in eight general elections. He dedicated his life to establishing an electorally powerful Labour Party in South Shields and witnessed its rise in the post-war period to become the dominant force in local politics.

It is important to recognize that the rise of the Labour Party as a major political force in Britain owes just as much to local stalwarts like Gompertz as it does to the prominent figures of Hardie, Henderson, MacDonald, and Attlee. These individuals, along with countless others, played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of Britain and laying the foundation for the Labour Party's eventual dominance.

The story of Gompertz and his efforts to establish a Labour Party in South Shields is a testament to the resilience and determination of the working class in Britain. It showcases the power of grassroots activism and the ability of ordinary people to make a significant impact on the political landscape. It also highlights the importance of a strong and organized political party in achieving social and economic change.

In conclusion, the rise of the Labour Party as a major political force in Britain was not a foregone conclusion. It was the result of a long and arduous campaign, led by dedicated individuals like Gompertz, who worked tirelessly to establish an electorally powerful Labour Party in South Shields and beyond. The legacy of Gompertz and his fellow local stalwarts continues to inspire and shape British politics today.

Weight: 815g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839526039