Austerity in Britain is the first book to explore the entire episode of rationing, austerity, and fair shares from 1939 until 1955. These policies were central to the British war effort and to post-war reconstrucion. The book analyses the connections between government policy, consumption, gender, and party politics during and after the Second World War. The economic background to austerity, the policy's administration, and changes in consumption standards are examined. Rationing resulted in at times extensive black markets and popular attitudes to the policy ranged from wartime acquiescence to post-war discontent. Austerity in Britain qualifies the myth of common sacrifice on the home front and highlights the limitations of the fair-shares policy which failed to achieve genuine equality between the classes or between men and women. The continuation of rationing and austerity policies after 1945 was central to party politics. Disaffecton, particulary among women, undermined Labour's popularity while the Conservatives' critique of austerity was instrumental in the party's victories at the general elections of 1951 and 1955.
Reviews
this is persuasive, and will have a large impact on discussion of post-1945 politics ... an impressive and important book. * Philip Williamson, English Historical Review *
In view of its importance, the austerity regime has not attracted the academic study it deserves, and this scholarly and thoroughly researched book by Ina Zweiniger-Bargielowska will, therefore, be widely welcomed. She challenges received opinion in several ways and has much of interest to say for students of war, British administration, women and party-political history. * Martin Pugh, Times Literary Supplement *
At last we have a full history. Austerity in Britain is required reading for anyone who thinks that utility furniture and pencil-line stockings say it all. * Richard Overy, The Sunday Telegraph *


Awards
Winner of Winner of the 2001 British Council Prize awarded by the NACBS.



Book Information
ISBN 9780199251025
Author Ina Zweiniger-Bargielowska
Format Paperback
Page Count 300
Imprint Oxford University Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 437g
Dimensions(mm) 234mm * 156mm * 17mm