After All: The Autobiography of Norman Angell

Intro
"After All: The Autobiography of Norman Angell" is a memoir by the British author, reporter, and political leader Sir Ralph Norman Angell. Published in 1951, the book chronicles the life and accomplishments of Angell, who was an influential figure in the realm of international relations and a strong supporter for world peace, and whose 1910 book "The Great Illusion" made him world-famous.

Early Life and Career
Angell starts the autobiography by stating his early years growing up in Holbeach, a village in Lincolnshire, England, where he was born in 1872. He explains his simple childhood, along with the strong impact his mom had on him and his brother or sisters.

After leaving school at the age of fourteen, Angell started working in different tasks, consisting of a clerk, a cowboy, and a rancher. He eventually relocated to California, where he meddled various professions, including journalism. In 1898, he moved to Paris and started his profession as a foreign correspondent for numerous papers.

While working as a reporter, Angell observed the expansion of the British Empire and the increase of European nationalism. It was throughout this time that he developed an interest in worldwide relations and started creating his ideas on the futility of war and the impracticality of militarism as a means to accomplish security and peace.

The Great Illusion
In 1910, Angell released his most famous work, "The Great Illusion", which argued that the idea that a nation could accomplish long lasting security through military victories was an illusion. His cutting-edge book declared that the increasing financial connection in between nations made war an impractical and self-destructive choice for any nation.

Angell's concepts resonated with a broad audience, making him an international celeb. "The Great Illusion" was equated into over 20 languages and became one of the most commonly read books in the early 20th century. Regardless of the book's success, Angell dealt with criticism from those who believed that his pacifist concepts were naive and unrealistic, especially throughout the break out of World War I.

Political Career and Peace Advocacy
Angell continued to promote for peace and disarmament throughout his life. He was involved in various peace organizations, such as the League of Nations Union and the Union of Democratic Control. He also lectured and wrote extensively on the topic, making him the 1933 Nobel Peace Prize.

During the 1920s, Angell began a political profession as a member of the British Labour Party and was chosen as a Member of Parliament for Bradford North in 1929. Nevertheless, he lost his seat in 1931 and later returned to his journalistic roots to focus on peace advocacy.

As World War II approached, Angell's work acquired brand-new urgency. He cautioned versus the risks of appeasement, arguing that it would just push aggressor countries and make war more likely. He required cumulative security as a method to resolve the aggressive actions of Nazi Germany and other emerging dictatorships.

Later On Life and Legacy
"After All: The Autobiography of Norman Angell" was released in 1951, and Angell passed away a year later on. His ideas and contributions to the cause of peace continue to be influential, particularly in the field of international relations.

The book serves as an important file, using insights into the idea process and personal experiences of an influential supporter of world peace in the early 20th century. Angell's autobiography reminds us of the significance of constantly pursuing peace and understanding in a progressively interconnected world, even when confronted with apparently overwhelming challenges.
After All: The Autobiography of Norman Angell

Norman Angell's autobiography, detailing his life, beliefs, and work in advocating for international cooperation and peace.


Author: Norman Angell

Norman Angell Norman Angell, advocating pacifism, economic interdependence & diplomacy. Discover his influential quotes.
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