Politics and Foreign Policy in the Age of George I, 1714–1727 by Jeremy Black (review)

Politics and Foreign Policy in the Age of George I, 1714–1727 is a robust analysis of the challenges faced by Britain during George I’s reign. Jeremy Black’s work here adds to his considerable breadth of research in eighteenth- and nineteenth-century England, providing a thorough examination of the relationship between foreign and domestic politics under the reign of George I.

Audiences seeking to develop their understanding of this area, noted as being somewhat neglected in recent decades, will benefit from Black’s analysis. He prefaces the book by acknowledging the contributions from other researchers of the period, such as Graham Gibbs, Edward Gregg, and Clyve Jones. Furthermore, Black positions his work within the arena of existing research and identifies himself as a participant in ongoing commentary and discussions in the field of history and politics right up until the present, also noting parallels and issues that are reflected within foreign policy today.

The links Black draws provide a major contribution to the field that will be of particular benefit and interest for readers seeking to understand the ramifications of George I’s policies during the early modern period, as well as the period in focus for the book itself. Black discusses the events in British history that influenced foreign and domestic relations under George I’s rule, including the Glorious Revolution and the Restoration, in addition to more contemporary influences, such as the Jacobite Rebellion. Discussions surrounding Whig and Tory relations of the time and their influence on the monarchy, along with the monarchy’s influence on the parties themselves, will also be of interest to readers seeking to further their knowledge of this area of politics and history.

Black’s work makes a major contribution to his field in the breadth of source documents he has consulted: his extensive research has taken him to numerous foreign archives, including Hanover, Munich, Paris, and Vienna. The wide range of sources has resulted in a balanced analysis of both foreign and domestic politics and policy that provides perspectives from multiple countries and governments. This enables the reader to develop a deeper understanding of the issues raised by Black, accompanied by insights that emphasise the importance for historians of taking account of a variety, in this case, foreign, viewpoints when analysing historical events.

Black’s clearly organised chapters follow the major events of George I’s politics and policy during his reign. The first two chapters are dedicated to the kingdom George inherited from Queen Anne, and more significantly, the impact of the Tory and Whig parliamentary imbalance that existed as George came to power. As the study progresses, Black adjusts his focus between George I and the events that impacted upon his reign and political and foreign policy decisions, and the wider consequences of both in the historical progression of British politics and diplomacy.

Black’s successful examination of George I, politics, and foreign policy between 1714 and 1727, will appeal to scholars of George I as the work focuses not on the monarch, but on his policies. Additionally, Black’s work provides a vital contribution to scholarship regarding the evolution of England and British policy during the eighteenth century.