The Varied Worlds Of Hugh Dalton (Press, 19 August 1989)
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Summary: The Varied Worlds Of Hugh Dalton (Press, 19 August 1989)
Hugh Dalton, a significant figure in British history, served as the most socialist Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1945 to 1947. At a time when New Zealand grappled with its economic direction, examining Dalton's life and contributions became particularly relevant. Despite the immense challenges of massive defence commitments, balance of payment issues, and substantial debts during his tenure, Dalton endeavoured to tackle unemployment, improve child welfare, and redistribute wealth. Dalton's approach included imposing steep death duties and high personal tax rates on the wealthy, ultimately earning their disdain. His policies aimed at economic expansion through cheap money, which garnered support from prominent figures such as Maynard Keynes, the Bank of England, and the Treasury. Conversely, economists of the day, who generally endorsed full employment, opposed his push for socialist redistribution, fearing potential threats to property rights. Born to a privileged background, Dalton cultivated a strong distaste for the wealthy throughout his career, which began in the 1920s. His education at Eton and King's College Cambridge revealed a societal divide that influenced his ambition. He depicted himself as a modern-day Robin Hood, fiercely advocating for wealth redistribution and providing support to many eminent economists and politicians. Dalton held diverse roles beyond politics, including that of a mathematician, barrister, and military officer. He was instrumental in the war effort against Nazi Germany, taking up a position in Churchill’s Special Operations Executive in 1940, which focused on undermining the Nazis across Europe. Ben Pimlott’s biography of Dalton, featuring extensive analysis, illustrations, and photographs, provides a comprehensive look at the man and his era. It delves into Dalton's complex character, exploring both his political strategies and personal life, including insights into the homosexual community at Cambridge, which Dalton partially belonged to. Pimlott's work is praised for its critical examination of the period and Dalton's multifaceted role within it, making it an excellent resource for those interested in politics, economics, and history alike. Overall, it stands out as one of the finest political biographies available.
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