Tory Nation
The Dark Legacy of the World's Most Successful Political Party
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Simon & Schuster Ltd
Published:29th Feb '24
Should be back in stock very soon
This paperback is available in another edition too:
- Hardback£16.99(9781398518513)

This exploration of political dynamics reveals how the Conservative Party shapes British identity and democracy, as discussed in Tory Nation.
In Tory Nation, Samuel Earle delves into the intricate relationship between the Conservative Party and British politics, revealing how this political entity has shaped the very fabric of the nation. He examines the historical roots of the Conservatives, tracing their origins back to the eighteenth century and exploring their profound influence on national identity. Earle's analysis provides a compelling narrative that not only highlights the party's ruling-class beginnings but also sheds light on their surprising appeal to the working classes, a dynamic that continues to perplex many observers of British politics.
The book poses critical questions about democracy in the UK, particularly why political discourse often aligns with Tory perspectives. Earle argues that this phenomenon is not merely a contemporary issue but is deeply entrenched in the historical context of British governance. He scrutinizes the role of the British press and the media's disproportionate power in shaping public perception and political outcomes, illustrating how these factors contribute to the Conservative Party's enduring dominance.
Ultimately, Tory Nation is not just a historical account; it serves as a call to understand the past to navigate the future. Earle emphasizes the importance of recognizing these patterns to address the current political crisis and to rethink the possibilities for a more equitable democracy. His insightful exploration encourages readers to reflect on the implications of one party's overwhelming influence on the nation's political landscape.
‘A witty, lucid investigation into one of the great political mysteries of our time: the enduring love felt by the British people for the party which regularly manages to persuade them, against all the evidence, that it has their best interests at heart’ -- Jonathan Coe, author of Bournville
‘Finally, someone has explained why the British electorate behaves like Turkeys voting for Christmas. Sam Earle has set out clearly and eloquently why our democracy is incapable of solving our political problems’ -- Robert Verkaik, author of Posh Boys
‘Eviscerating. Less a political book and more a mystery novel . . . untangles the riddle of the strange cognitive dissonance between the Tories’ bumbling, destructive political record and their inexplicable electoral success’ -- i-D
'Explores the remarkable resilience of the Conservative party, which ought to be of interest to friend and foe alike’ * Spectator *
Highly readable. Capably explains two innate Conservative traits that are beyond doubt: an unquenchable lust for power, and a deep belief in stooping to conquer. * Observer *
'Not only brilliant but also steers well clear of facile ‘crisis of our politics’ analyses' -- Nesrine Malik, author of 'We Need New Stories'
‘A rich, well-written and rewarding book narrated with brio and insight. It should be read and enjoyed by readers on the left, right and centre’ * David Edgerton, TLS *
ISBN: 9781398518537
Dimensions: 198mm x 130mm x 18mm
Weight: unknown
304 pages