"In this book, Peter Stansky puts forward a particular view of Britain and its past. What has continually fascinated him about that intriguing country - a source of both admiration and irritation - is the way in which it copes with change. Although as prone to violence and disruption as almost any other developed country, it yet likes to think of itself as calm and peaceful. There is a curious combination of the power of institutions and of group thinking as well as a true celebration of individualism and a deep admiration for eccentricity. There is a valid claim to be the world's oldest democracy and - although perhaps now under more threat than previously - the world's most successful monarchy. Adaptation and preservation are the name of the game."--BOOK JACKET. "Peter Stansky writes with wit and perception about areas of British life that he has made his own."--BOOK JACKET.