The Guardian Bookshop makes over 180,000 books available with up to 40% discount, as well as highlighting some of our favourite publications in each genre.
Find out more.
A major publishing and broadcasting project, this is Jeremy Paxman's history of the British Empire, not only the way Britain influenced the world but also how the empire shaped Britain. This paperback edition coincides with the 5-part BBCTV series, one of their most expensive productions. In an acute and witty analysis, Paxman brings to life the tragedy and comedy of Empire and reveals its profound and lasting effect on our nation and ourselves. *Also appeared in February Buyer's Notes*
Synopsis
The influence of the British Empire is everywhere, from the very existence of the United Kingdom to the ethnic composition of our cities. This title describes the selection process for colonial officers, the importance of sport, the sweating domestic life of the colonial officer's wife and the crazed end for General Gordon of Khartoum.