Harold Wilson by Ben Pimlott
- 1. Harold Wilson by Ben Pimlott is a comprehensive and insightful biography that meticulously chronicles the life and political career of Harold Wilson, one of Britain's most significant Prime Ministers in the 20th century. The book delves deep into Wilson's early life, exploring his upbringing in Yorkshire, his academic achievements, and his rise through the ranks of the Labour Party, culminating in his first term as Prime Minister from 1964 to 1970 and his second from 1974 to 1976. Pimlott's narrative captures Wilson's complex character, illustrating his intellect, strategic acumen, and the challenges he faced during his time in office, including economic crises, social change, and the tumultuous landscape of British politics. The biography is not only a detailed account of Wilson's policies and decisions but also an analysis of his lasting influence on the Labour Party and British society. Pimlott, through extensive research and interviews, presents a balanced portrayal of Wilson, considering both his successes in modernizing Britain and the controversies that surrounded his government, providing readers with a rich context for understanding the political environment of the era. This work is essential for anyone seeking to grasp the intricacies of Wilson's legacy and the impact of his leadership on the course of British history.
Who is the author of the biography 'Harold Wilson'?
A) Philip Ziegler
B) Andrew Marr
C) Ben Pimlott
D) Roy Jenkins
- 2. Which political party did Harold Wilson lead?
A) The Labour Party
B) The Social Democratic Party
C) The Liberal Party
D) The Conservative Party
- 3. In what year did Harold Wilson first become Prime Minister?
A) 1974
B) 1970
C) 1964
D) 1959
- 4. What major economic challenge did Wilson's government face in 1967?
A) Hyperinflation
B) Joining the Euro
C) Devaluation of the pound
D) The Great Depression
- 5. Pimlott presents Wilson's relationship with which country as a key aspect of his foreign policy?
A) The Soviet Union
B) China
C) France
D) The United States
- 6. How does Pimlott generally assess Wilson's legacy?
A) As an unqualified failure
B) As Britain's greatest prime minister
C) As a ideologically pure socialist
D) As a complex and often misunderstood figure
- 7. What was Wilson's stance on British membership in the European Economic Community (EEC)?
A) He had no interest in the EEC.
B) He immediately secured British membership in 1967.
C) He was a staunch opponent from the beginning.
D) He applied for membership but was vetoed, then renegotiated terms and held a referendum.
- 8. What symbolic event does Pimlott use to mark the end of the post-war consensus?
A) The Winter of Discontent in 1979
B) The Suez Crisis in 1956
C) The Falklands War in 1982
D) The devaluation of sterling in 1967
- 9. Which university did Harold Wilson attend?
A) Oxford
B) Manchester
C) Cambridge
D) The London School of Economics
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