A richly detailed history of Britain at its imperial zenith, revealing the simmering tensions and explosive rivalries beneath the opulent surface of the late Victorian and Edwardian eras.

The decline of the Pallisers --The rise of the Pooters -- The worker's struggle -- Imperial tensions -- Ireland -- The death of God -- The civilising mission -- Protecting women -- The future -- Nostalgia -- Imperial consequences -- Art and life -- The uses of literacy -- Men and power -- Dukes and dreadnoughts -- The great unrest -- Votes for women -- Rebellion.