Abstract

For nearly two hundred years, the use and ownership of land generated much political controversy in Britain. Liberals, radicals and socialists attacked the evils of 'landlordism', proposing measures ranging from allotment bills to land nationalisation. Conversely, political conservatives mounted various campaigns in defence of the landed aristocracy and landed property in general, resisting the schemes of reformers while likewise sponsoring legislation to further their own cause. The ensuing debate over the 'land question' became a fixture of modern British politics between 1750 and 1950. This volume, featuring a distinguished line-up of expert contributors, offers the first synoptic and pan-British treatment of the land question in this period. Critically engaging with recent research, the essays offer a range of fresh social, cultural, political and economic perspectives on the land question as it played out in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.