The Autobiography of a Nation - (Studies in Design and Material Culture) by Becky E Conekin (Paperback)

About the Book

First full-length study on the 1951 Festival of Britain. An examination of how Britain and Britishness were portrayed in the 1951's Festival's exhibitions and events. Covers the Festival's history and historiography, purpose, representations of the future and past, the role of London and the 'local', the British Empire and finally its legacy.

From the Back Cover

The first full-length study on the 1951 Festival of Britain. An examination of how Britain and Britishness were portrayed in the 1951's Festival's exhibitions and events. Covers the Festival's history and historiography, its purpose, its representations of the future and the past, the role of London and the 'local', the British Empire and finally its legacy.

Review Quotes

"The autobiography of a nation assembles an impressive array of evidence and argument for judging this fascinating moment in British postwar cultural history. Uniting the best of history and cultural studies, Becky Conekin contributes an essential building block for the gradually accumulating historiography of the postwar era." -- Geoff Eley, University of Michigan
"This book makes a significant contribution to the design and social history of postwar Britain." -- Simon Gunn, University of Leeds

About the Author

Becky E. Conekin is a Research Fellow and Lecturer at the London College of Fashion, The London Institute