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Storm Signals: More Undiplomatic Diaries, 1962-1971

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By Harold Macmillan

Overview

Storm Signals: More Undiplomatic Diaries, 1962-1971 is a fascinating and revealing collection of diaries written by Harold Macmillan, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. The diaries cover a turbulent period in British history, from the Cuban Missile Crisis to the Vietnam War. Macmillan's insights into the major events of his time are invaluable, and Storm Signals is an essential read for anyone interested in British history or international relations.

Storm Signals: More Undiplomatic Diaries, 1962-1971

by Charles Ritchie

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2340 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	168 pages

The Diaries

Macmillan's diaries are a unique and valuable historical resource. They provide a behind-the-scenes look at the major events of his time, and they offer insights into the thoughts and feelings of a man who played a key role in shaping British history. The diaries are written in a frank and engaging style, and they are full of vivid descriptions of the people and events that Macmillan encountered.

The Cuban Missile Crisis

One of the most dramatic events that Macmillan faced during his time as Prime Minister was the Cuban Missile Crisis. The crisis began in October 1962, when the United States discovered that the Soviet Union was secretly building nuclear missile bases in Cuba. Macmillan played a key role in resolving the crisis, and his diaries provide a detailed account of the events that led up to the brink of war.

The Vietnam War

Another major event that Macmillan discusses in his diaries is the Vietnam War. Macmillan was a staunch supporter of the American war effort, and he believed that the United States was fighting for a just cause. However, he also recognized the growing unpopularity of the war in Britain, and he was increasingly critical of the American conduct of the conflict.

The Suez Crisis

In addition to the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War, Macmillan's diaries also discuss a number of other major events, including the Suez Crisis. The Suez Crisis erupted in 1956, when Egypt nationalized the Suez Canal. Britain and France responded by invading Egypt, but they were forced to withdraw under pressure from the United States and the Soviet Union.

The Profumo Affair

Macmillan's diaries also provide insights into the Profumo Affair, a political scandal that rocked the British government in 1963. The affair involved John Profumo, the Secretary of State for War, who had an affair with Christine Keeler, a showgirl who was also involved with a Soviet diplomat. The scandal led to Profumo's resignation and the downfall of the Macmillan government.

Legacy

Harold Macmillan was one of the most important British Prime Ministers of the 20th century. He led Britain through a period of great change, and he played a key role in shaping the country's future. Storm Signals: More Undiplomatic Diaries, 1962-1971 is a valuable historical resource that provides insights into Macmillan's thoughts and feelings during his time in office.

Additional Information

Harold Macmillan served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1957 to 1963.
Macmillan's diaries were published in two volumes: Riding the Storm, 1956-1959 and Storm Signals, 1962-1971.
Macmillan's diaries have been praised for their honesty and candor.
Storm Signals is an essential read for anyone interested in British history or international relations.

Image Alt Attributes

<img src="macmillan.jpg" alt="Harold Macmillan, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom">
<img src="cuban_missile_crisis.jpg" alt="The Cuban Missile Crisis">
<img src="vietnam_war.jpg" alt="The Vietnam War">
<img src="suez_crisis.jpg" alt="The Suez Crisis">
<img src="profumo_affair.jpg" alt="The Profumo Affair">

Storm Signals: More Undiplomatic Diaries, 1962-1971

by Charles Ritchie

4 out of 5