This Blessed Plot by Hugo Young Summary

This Blessed Plot examines Britain’s turbulent relationship with Europe from Winston Churchill’s post-WWII advocacy for European unity to Tony Blair’s leadership. Hugo Young analyzes political shifts, Euroscepticism, and key figures like Margaret Thatcher, highlighting Britain’s struggle to balance its global ambitions with European integration. The book blends historical analysis with insider political insights, tracing debates that remain relevant to modern Brexit discussions.

Hugo Young (1938–2003) was a leading British political journalist and columnist for The Guardian. A pro-European commentator, he wrote acclaimed biographies like One of Us: A Life of Margaret Thatcher and This Blessed Plot. His work combined rigorous research with sharp critiques of British Euroscepticism, drawing from decades of access to political leaders.

This book suits readers interested in British political history, EU-UK relations, or the roots of Brexit. Students of political science, policymakers, and fans of detailed historical narratives will appreciate Young’s blend of scholarly analysis and journalistic storytelling. Critics note its density, making it better for engaged readers than casual audiences.

Yes, for its depth and historical context, though some find it overly lengthy. Young’s access to key figures and archival materials offers unique insights into Britain’s ambivalence toward Europe. Critics highlight its verbosity but praise its relevance to understanding modern Euroscepticism.

Young traces Euroscepticism to Britain’s post-war prioritization of its “special relationship” with the U.S. over European alliances. He argues figures like Margaret Thatcher amplified skepticism by framing EU integration as a threat to sovereignty, creating lasting Conservative Party divisions. The book emphasizes cultural and political tensions over economic concerns.

Thatcher initially supported the EU single market but grew hostile to further integration, epitomized by her 1988 Bruges Speech opposing federalism. Young critiques her confrontational style, which deepened Tory divides and fueled anti-EU sentiment. Her downfall, he argues, stemmed partly from losing control over Europe policy.

Churchill advocated a “United States of Europe” in 1946 to prevent future conflicts but excluded Britain from full membership, prioritizing its global role. Young highlights this contradiction, showing how Churchill’s rhetoric clashed with Britain’s reluctance to cede sovereignty—a tension that shaped later EU debates.

Critics cite its excessive length (nearly 600 pages) and repetitive analysis. Young’s pro-European bias occasionally overshadows neutral reporting, and his 1998 optimism about Tony Blair’s EU engagement feels outdated post-Brexit. However, its detailed research remains valuable.

Young openly criticizes British insularity, framing EU integration as essential for peace and prosperity. He contrasts leaders like Churchill and Blair (pragmatic cooperators) with Thatcher and Eurosceptics (obstructionists), using historical examples to advocate for multilateralism.

• Churchill’s 1946 Zurich Speech: Called for European unity but excluded Britain.
• Thatcher’s 1988 Bruges Speech: Rejected federalism, rallying Eurosceptics.
• Blair’s 1997 pro-EU policies: Aimed to reposition Britain as a “bridge” between Europe and the U.S.

The book’s exploration of historical distrust toward EU institutions, sovereignty battles, and Tory infighting mirrors Brexit-era conflicts. Young’s analysis of Blair’s failed integration efforts foreshadows the 2016 referendum’s underlying tensions.

Young drew on archival materials, private letters, and interviews with politicians like Roy Jenkins and Margaret Thatcher. His journalistic access provided candid insights into closed-door negotiations, particularly during Thatcher’s and Blair’s administrations.