Britons by Linda Colley

Forging the Nation 1707-1837

This book delves into the formation of British national identity from 1707 to 1837, a period marked by significant political, social, and economic transformations. It explores how the union of England, Scotland, and Wales, along with the expansion of the British Empire, contributed to a shared sense of "Britishness." The narrative examines the role of war, religion, and monarchy in shaping this identity, while also highlighting the tensions and contradictions inherent in the process. Through a detailed analysis of cultural symbols, public rituals, and popular literature, the book offers a comprehensive understanding of how diverse groups within the British Isles came to see themselves as part of a single nation.

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