This Sovereign Isle: Britain In and Out of Europe

Britain's unique historical experience, particularly in the twentieth century, and its deeper ties outside Europe, make its decision to leave the EU historically explicable, challenging the view of British or English exceptionalism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 28 July 2022
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The profound influence of geography on history is evident in the assertion that islands cannot share the same historical narrative as continental plains. The United Kingdom, although a European nation, distinguishes itself from its counterparts in Germany, Poland, and Hungary due to its unique historical trajectory. For the majority of the past 150 centuries, Britain has stood on the periphery, both culturally and geographically, of mainland Europe.

In his insightful book, Tombs delves into the historical factors that led to Britain's decision to leave the European Union. While he acknowledges that the decision was not predetermined by history, he argues that it is historically explicable, particularly in light of Britain's distinct historical experience, particularly in the twentieth century, and its more extensive and profound connections beyond Europe.

Tombs challenges the conventional notion that Brexit was solely driven by British or English exceptionalism. He contends that the British, in choosing to leave the EU, were voting in many ways as typical Europeans. This perspective emphasizes the interconnectedness of nations and the role that geography plays in shaping their historical paths.

Geography has played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural, economic, and political landscapes of Britain and the wider European continent. The island nation's location on the periphery has influenced its interactions with other regions, leading to the development of distinct customs, traditions, and political systems.

In conclusion, geography comes before history, and the United Kingdom's unique historical experience, coupled with its broader connections outside Europe, has contributed to its decision to leave the EU. Tombs' book sheds light on the historical factors that shaped this pivotal moment in British and European history, challenging the notion of exceptionalism and emphasizing the interconnectedness of nations.

Weight: 166g
Dimension: 128 x 196 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141995021