This wide-ranging text provides a thematic account of British history centering on the eventful period of the 19th century. To the traditional, chronological account of historic happenings, the authors add a full range of thematic chapters examining political structures, ideologies, wars and international relations, economic and social history, religion, culture and ethnicity. Britain, as opposed to England, is the focus of the book. The coverage is enhanced with supplementary background information on key personalities and pivotal events, and numerous illustrations.