DePaul University Newsline > Sections > Signed by the Author > Faculty explores history of modern United Kingdom

Faculty explores history of modern United Kingdom

Islands and Empire: A History of Modern Britain
(DePaul University/Jeff Carrion)

​​Islands and Empire: A History of Modern Britain​

By: Tom Mockaitis, ​Department of History

"Islands and Empire: A History of Modern Britain" situates the United Kingdom within a local, European and global historical context. It examines the forces of imperialism, emphasizing the dynamic interaction between the colonies and the metropole. The book addresses questions of race, ethnicity, class and gender and gives voice to the diversity of people who shaped and were shaped by Britain and its empire. 

Islands and Empire: A History of Modern Britain
(Image courtesy of Cognells)

What inspired you to write this book?

I have always wanted to write a comprehensive survey of my core field of study -- modern Britain, Ireland and Western European history -- so I was delighted when the publisher approached me with this project.​

Persuade someone to read your book in less than 50 words:

If you want to understand the history and culture behind "Downton Abbey" and other similar PBS dramas you have enjoyed, this book is for you.

About the author:

Tom Mockaitis earned his Ph.D. in British history from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. As a professor of history, he offers courses in European, British and military history. His research focuses on violent extremism. Mockaitis has published 12 books and numerous articles. He has lectured on terrorism at venues around the world and is a frequent media commentator on local, national, and international news programs. He just completed his 30th year at DePaul, where he has taught in the history, honors, Irish studies and refugee and forced migration studies programs.

Publisher and publication date:

Cognella, November 2021

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