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'An eloquent, forensic examination of resurgent English nationalism as the force that has driven Brexit and may now break up the United Kingdom' Jonathan Coe
'A fascinating book that draws on poetry, literature and on-the-ground reporting' The Times'A wonderful book which will be quoted in years to come' New EuropeanIn the past, it was possible to live with delightful confusion: one could be English or British, Scottish or Irish, and a citizen/subject of the United Kingdom (or Great Britain). Now this archaic state is coming under terrible strain. The English revolt against Europe is also a revolt against the Scottish and Irish, and the pressures to declare Scottish independence and to push for a border poll that would unite Ireland may become irresistible.
Can England and Wales find a way of dealing with the state's new place in the world? What constitutional, federal arrangements might prevent the disintegration of the British state?
How Britain Ends is a book about history, but also about the strange, complicated identity of Britishness.
About the author
Gavin Esler is a journalist, television presenter and author. He was a main presenter of the BBC current affairs show Newsnight for 12 years until 2014. Since 2014 he has been a public speaker, a political commentator and journalist, and the Chancellor of the University of Kent.
Summary
A book about the rise of English nationalism and the impending breakup of the United Kingdom.
Foreword
A thoughtful, articulate and important book about the rise of English nationalism and the impending breakup of the United Kingdom from one of the finest BBC journalists of the last twenty years.
Additional text
An important book... [Esler] writes a clear, stimulating description of our position following our departure from the European Union'