For half a century, Tony Benn was Britain's leading radical, defying the leadership of the Labour Party and staking out the moral high ground.

This comprehensively revised edition of Jad Adams's classic biography, updated with a new introduction to mark the centenary of Benn's birth, was written with unparalleled access to his private records. It chronicles the behind-the-scenes story of this remarkable man's rise and fall, then his triumphant return as the conscience of the nation.

Benn's principled stands and spellbinding oratory commanded the respect of friends and foes alike. He was a strident voice for peace in a troubled world, notably as the leading figure of opposition to the invasion of Iraq. The 2016 Brexit referendum owed everything to Benn's promotion of referendums as part of his concept of popular democracy. This acclaimed biography explores the continued influence of Benn's legacy.

About the Author

Jad Adams has worked as a television producer and a Fleet Street newspaper journalist. He knew Tony Benn well for the last twenty-five years of his life. He was the last researcher to have full access to the extensive Benn Archive in Benn's basement office, prior to its being given to the British Library.

Jad's political books include Women and the Vote: A World History, Gandhi: Naked Ambition and The Dynasty: The Nehru-Gandhi Story. His television work has included biographies of Bill and Hillary Clinton, the Nehru dynasty and Lord Kitchener. He has also specialised in work on the 'decadent' era of the nineteenth century, including Decadent Women: Yellow Book Lives; Madder Music, Stronger Wine: The Life of Ernest Dowson; and Hideous Absinthe: A History of the Devil in a Bottle. Jad has written two novels: Cafe Europa and Choice of Darkness.

He lives in London and on the Greek island of Leros. His website is www.jadadams.co.uk

Reviews

"A well-researched biography about someone who will live for ever in the pantheon of Labour heroes" Chris Mullin, New Statesman

"Adams takes us through Tony Benn's long career with considerable narrative skill" Roy Jenkins, Sunday Telegraph

"Extremely accurate and perceptive" Tam Dalyell, The Scotsman

"Adams has won a permanent place in the Benn literature" Peter Hennessy, Times Educational Supplement

Book Information
ISBN 9781785909498
Author Jad Adams
Format Paperback
Page Count 576
Imprint Biteback Publishing
Publisher Biteback Publishing