First published in 1979, this book was the first, full-length study of working-class movements in London between 1800 and the beginnings of Chartism in the later 1830s. The leaders and rank and file in these movements were almost invariably artisans, and this book examines the position of the skilled artisan in politics. Starting from the social ideals, outlook and the experience of the London artisan, Dr Prothero describes trade union, political, co-operative, educational and intellectual movements in the first forty years of the century. Setting a scene of alternating growth and contraction in trade, successive hostile governments and the increasing articulation of working-class consciousness the author shows that artisans could be no less militant, radical or anti-capitalist than other groups of working class men.

First published in 1979, this book was the first, full-length study of working-class movements in London between 1800 and the beginnings of Chartism in the later 1830s. The leaders and rank and file in these movements were almost invariably artisans, and this book examines the position of the skilled artisan in politics. Starting from the social ideals, outlook and the experience of the London artisan, Dr Prothero describes trade union, political, co-operative, educational and intellectual movements in the first forty years of the century. Setting a scene of alternating growth and contraction in trade, successive hostile governments and the increasing articulation of working-class consciousness the author shows that artisans could be no less militant, radical or anti-capitalist than other groups of working class men.

The focus of this comparative 1997 study is on political radicalism at its high point around the middle of the nineteenth century, but broad topics such as trade unionism, co-operation, socialism and religion are also examined in depth. The author argues that French and English radicalism did not stem directly from or reflect work and workplace relations, but instead drew upon work groups and organizations, material concerns, or social and religious groups. Radicalism, it is argued, was part of everyday social life, the daily concerns of which affected its practice - though usually not its programmes. Radicalism was also characterized by cultural diversity, although actual forms of organization and action usually depended strongly upon the political context and strategic choices. The book also offers reinterpretations of specific developments and actions in both countries. This book is based on a rich range of archival and printed primary source material and on many years of research in French and British archives. It therefore offers a major resource for anyone interested in the complex and diverse origins of modern political life.

The focus of this comparative 1997 study is on political radicalism at its high point around the middle of the nineteenth century, but broad topics such as trade unionism, co-operation, socialism and religion are also examined in depth. The author argues that French and English radicalism did not stem directly from or reflect work and workplace relations, but instead drew upon work groups and organizations, material concerns, or social and religious groups. Radicalism, it is argued, was part of everyday social life, the daily concerns of which affected its practice - though usually not its programmes. Radicalism was also characterized by cultural diversity, although actual forms of organization and action usually depended strongly upon the political context and strategic choices. The book also offers reinterpretations of specific developments and actions in both countries. This book is based on a rich range of archival and printed primary source material and on many years of research in French and British archives. It therefore offers a major resource for anyone interested in the complex and diverse origins of modern political life.