Question 1
Using these four sources in their historical context, assess how far they support the view that the
Conservatives lost the 1945 general election because of social changes.
Source A: A well-known journalist comments on the impact of the War.
Now, the war, because it demands a huge collective effort, is compelling us to change not only our ordinary, social and economic habits, but also our habits of thought. We’re actually changing over from the property view to the sense of community, which simply means that we realise we’re all in the same boat. But, and this is the point, that boat can serve not only as our defence against Nazi aggression, but as an ark in which we can all finally land in a better world.
J.B. Priestley, broadcast, July 1940
Source B: Churchill’s Private Secretary comments on the election campaign.
The weekend was devoted to the preparation of the first political broadcast before the general election of 5 July 1945. The PM’s speech was a fighting and provocative effort, mentioning the necessity of a political police to a really socialist state. His gestures to the microphone were as emphatic as those he uses to a really large audience. The speech aroused widespread criticism and did not really go down well with the educated classes. Labour propaganda is better and it links to the popular mood. I think the Service vote will be for Labour and the housing shortage has left many people disgruntled.
Sir John Colville, The Fringes of Power, Downing Street Diaries 1939–1955
Source C: A Labour General Election broadcast.
The Conservative party remains as always a class Party. In twenty-three years in the House of Commons, I cannot recall more than half a dozen from the ranks of wage earners. It represents today, as in the past, the forces of property and privilege. The Labour Party is, in fact, the one party which most nearly reflects in its representation and composition all the main streams which flow into the great river of our national life. Our appeal to you, therefore is not narrow or sectional.
Clement Attlee, election broadcast, June 1945
Source D: Churchill gives his view about the outcome of the election to a friend.
There are some unpleasant features in this election which indicate the rise of bad elements. Conscientious objectors were preferred to candidates of real military achievement and service. All the members of Parliament who had done most to hamper and obstruct the war were returned by enormously increased majorities. None of the values of the years before were preserved. The soldiers voted with mirthful irresponsibility. Also there is the latent antagonism of the rank and file for the officer class.
Churchill, letter, 17 September 1945
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Answer
