Richard Aldous

5320. The Lion and the Unicorn Gladstone vs Disraeli, by Richard Aldous (read 24 Oct 2015) This is a well-researched dual biography concentrating on the interaction of the named protagonists, though there is no bibliography as such, But the author has mined the other biographies and sets out an account which makes one feel the author was observing what he relates! The author is Irish-born and a history teacher. Both Disraeli and Gladstone were exceptionally able and eccentric men, with unusual eccentricities. Gladstone sought out prostitutes, supposedly to 'rescue' them but obviously much attracted to them. The bitterness of the antagonism between them is startling and grew worse as the years went on. I found the book of much interest and the closing chapters are exceptionally moving..… (more)

A good, stimulating overview of the relationship between Reagan & Thatcher, predominantly covering the 1980's. There is some material covering their relationship out of power, both before & after their premierships, but it is mainly about their Atlantic Alliance & the leadership of the west during a tumultuous period. It was Reagan that quoted he was "living in momentous times" & it appears in retrospect that his leadership & in some ways, brinkmanship, was part of the unraveling of the Cold War. Thatcher's role as a facilitator is dealt with in some depth. What's interesting here is not what they achieved, or agreed upon (the latter being very little) but actually what they DIAGREED on, which was a vast amount. This came as a surprise to me. A good look a the relationship, without a huge amount of psychoanalysis or character analysis, but not quite the political thriller that is quoted. Certainly interesting, good for the general reader, & maybe for someone looking for a springboard to look at other parts of the Anglo American relationship in this period. Some aspects of it would require verification & discussion. Worth a look.… (more)