Britain’s Retreat from East of Suez

Brief Summary

Britain’s Retreat from East of Suez by Saki Dockrill offers a comprehensive analysis of the significant historical decision by the Harold Wilson government in 1967-68 regarding Britain's military and political withdrawal from positions East of Suez. Utilizing declassified documents from Britain and the USA, Dockrill provides a detailed investigation that challenges previously held beliefs about the motivations and timing behind this strategic decision. Rather than being a hasty reaction to economic pressures like the 1967 sterling devaluation, Dockrill argues that the withdrawal was the result of a carefully considered reassessment of Britain's global role, initiated as early as 1959.

Main Themes and Topics

One of the central themes of Dockrill's work is the re-evaluation of Britain's postwar identity and its global influence. Through meticulous research, Dockrill illustrates how Britain's decision to withdraw from East of Suez was an acknowledgment of its changing status on the world stage and a move towards redefining its international responsibilities. The book delves into the complex interplay between economic factors, foreign policy, and military strategy that influenced this pivotal decision. Additionally, Dockrill provides insight into the diplomatic pressures from the United States, which hoped to see Britain maintain its commitments East of Suez, yet ultimately respected Britain's new trajectory.

Writing Style and Tone

Dockrill's writing is characterized by its academic rigor and detailed analysis. The book strikes a balance between being accessible to readers lacking in-depth prior knowledge of 20th-century British foreign policy and catering to scholars who appreciate detailed historical research. Dockrill's tone is objective and analytical, allowing the evidence to guide the narrative rather than conjecture. This approach gives the work an authoritative voice, encouraging readers to reconsider previously accepted narratives about Britain's postwar history.

Criticism

Some critics have pointed out that while the book provides an exhaustive examination of the archival documents, it can occasionally be dense and challenging for lay readers. The level of detail, while impressive, may require a reader with a strong interest in British political history or international relations to fully appreciate the nuances of Dockrill's arguments. Nevertheless, this critique is often tempered by an acknowledgment of Dockrill's thorough research and the book's significant contribution to historical scholarship.