The period 1900-1950 witnessed fierce debate over what constituted Englishness. Two world wars drew sharp attention to concepts of national identity, whilst the economic crises of the 1920s and 1930s suggested an England in which many were dispossessed and excluded as a result of poverty and unemployment. The writings included in Writing Englishness invite the question 'What does it mean to say I am English?' Gathered from a wide range of sources such as letters, diaries, journalism, fiction, poems, parliamentary speeches and governmental reports, it provides a wealth of fascinating material exploring the meanings of Englishness. Helpful and informative critical commentary, a chronological table, an annotated bibliography and suggested activities make Writing Englishness not only an invaluable source of primary material but also an indispensable study tool. It is also fascinating reading for anyone who has ever asked what nationality means.

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