It is striking how many nationally significant speeches have been made in Birmingham over the past two hundred years. This book looks at ten episodes when a speech in Birmingham challenged the rest of the country to embrace change and reform. More than any other city it represents Britain's provincial voice across the period. The book reflects the importance of oratory in making a political argument. It may in a sound-bite era be a dying art but these speeches fulfil the first requirement of successful rhetoric, that it be a reasoned argument to persuade its audience.

About the Author
Educated at King's School Worcester & Exeter College, Oxford, Andrew Reekes spent a lifetime in education, leading History departments at Tonbridge, Cranleigh & Cheltenham College. He was headteacher of Arnold Lodge School & then became Sub-Warden of Radley College. Also, Chief Examiner for O Level History, Oxford & Cambridge Board, an inspector with Independent Schools Inspectorate & for 12 years he led training for senior leaders in HMC & GSA schools. In retirement he returned to his first love, History, studying for a research degree under Malcolm Dick at the University of Birmingham, & writing for History West Midlands.


Book Information
ISBN 9781905036233
Author Andrew Reekes
Format Paperback
Page Count 158
Imprint West Midlands History Limited
Publisher West Midlands History Limited