Margaret Thatcher: Iron Lady Vol 2

The first volume of John Campbell's biography of Margaret Thatcher was entertaining because he succeeded in finding an original way of telling the Thatcher story. The book was based on the premise that she played up her past, so much so that in the 1980's Peter Hennessey was able to claim that it was almost as though her father was running the country from beyond the grave. In Campbell's telling of her life up until 1979, he exposed the extent to which she embellished certain truths to further her own position, and this made for a gripping and enjoyable read.

This second volume has proved trickier, if only because it is more difficult to create a chronological account of a Government in action. Campbell has wisely split the book up into thematic areas which broadly move forward chronologically as the book progresses - rather like Baroness Thatcher's memoirs. If this book has a theme it is her lack of man-management as PM, which eventually rebounded on her with the resignation of Geoffrey Howe. However, as the book moves through a number of areas this is a point which is sustained, but without any real sense of narrative.

This is not to say that this is a bad biography - rather it highlights precisely why the first volume was so entertaining. Instead, The Iron Lady comes across as informative first, entertaining second - and there is much to commend. He has created a very balanced and fair biography, acknowledging her strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures. It is a book which has also been written a suitable period after events have been written - not only can we see the effect of her policies, but the personalities involved have also got their accounts out into the open.

Campbell's writing is superb - he has a fairly brisk writing style that enables him to argue a point well. There is some repetition of turns of phrase, but that is only to be expected in an 800 page volume. When he needs to do drama - especially in the penultimate two chapters - he does it exceptionally well. He is also adept at picking up humorous quotes and anecdotes which are illuminating at the same time.

There are a few other drawbacks for example there is little mention over her plans for Lord Young which to my mind is the most eccentric incident of her premiership which seems like an omission.

However, to list them all would be just nitpicking: The Iron Lady is an good solid biography. With a little more flair it would have been an excellent follow-up. Ultimately the difficult nature of the subject has left him with few strands to pull together through the whole book, though this does not prevent it from being a rewarding, informative and enjoyable read.

Superb political biography (5/6 people found this helpful)

Having read The Grocer's Daughter (Campbell's first volume on Mrs T) I had to get the second volume - and my expectations were exceeded. I started reading with a strange mixture of interest and reluctance, thinking the subject matter worthwhile but likely to be rather familiar. But Campbell's study is compelling reading, which gave me many fresh insights. One strength of his as a professional biographer is that his work possesses an objectivity and even handedness which is not to be found in the several accounts put into the public arena by Mrs T herself and other members of her governments.

Has any other post WW2 PM had such a profound impact on British society as Mrs T? "No.No.No!" Campbell's verdict is that her impact was both for better and for worse, careful though he is to state that a longer perspective is yet needed before a balanced judgment can be formed on all aspects of her reign.

Quite superb political biography. I don't know what he will turn his attention to next, but I hope that Campbell will be around in fifteen years or so to write the definitive biography of Tony Blair.

Sublime masterpiece set at great pace (5/7 people found this helpful)

This biography is by far the best around. Although a heavy book, the pace is set just right, including material from a vast range of sources which never fail to add to the book. A balanced account - a hard thing to find concerning a book on MT - it considers arguments from all sides. Including her life after 1990, this is a must for the casual reader interested in the period, the scolar, and, perhaps most importantly, a book for those who wish to learn from the mistakes of the C20th century's most influential politician.

Great Follow-up to Grocer's Daughter (7/11 people found this helpful)

Campbell's second volume is even better than the first--it is fascinating and well written. The book covers Thatcher's life up to 2003, so it is very current as well. Campbell does not imply that Thatcher was timid in her early years--despite what the jacket cover says--merely cautious and astute, as all good politicians are. Thatcher was not afraid to make difficult decisions, and despite mistakes and misjudgments (especially during her third term), this is the kind of leadership that is needed to make great changes. This volume is a remarkably fair and even-handed appraisal of Thatcher and her legacy.

Margaret Thatcher: Iron Lady Vol 2

John Campbell

Reader Reviews:

A solid follow-up to the Grocer's Daughter (12/13 people found this helpful)

Superb political biography (5/6 people found this helpful)

Sublime masterpiece set at great pace (5/7 people found this helpful)

Great Follow-up to Grocer's Daughter (7/11 people found this helpful)

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