This book provides a concise, illustrated history of Great Britain over the past three centuries, from its formation as a sovereign state between the Union of England and Scotland in 1707 to its partial loss of sovereignty in the accession to the European Community, confirmed in the referendum result of 1975. Professor Speck emphasises political and social trends. In particular he argues that conservative politics prevailed largely in a deeply conservative society, and that reactionary causes generally obtained more support than radical campaigns. The book is highly illustrated with pictures and photographs and contains a bibliography and other features of use to students and general readers.