First Published in 1979, Industrial Conflict in Modern Britain examines the unique rhythm of British strikes since the 1880’s and suggests that the explosive pattern of recurring strike waves provides the key to understanding both the evolution of British industrial relations and the major changes that have taken place in working class culture and behaviour. Two major themes emerge from this analysis: to explain how and why strikes themselves occur, and the association between industrial conflict and social relations.
This thorough critique of prevailing research and concept within labour history, provides insight into the cause of strike waves, the varying propensity of workers in different industries to engage in strike action, and into the general history of British trade unionism. This is a must read for scholars and researchers of British labour history, British trade unionism and Industrial sociology.