The Political Thought of Aneurin Bevan

‘Through a comprehensive analysis of Bevan’s political thinking, this excellent book provides a timely reminder of the need for a socialist vision that encapsulates the class struggle, fair pay, public ownership, pluralism, constitutional change, and the need to transform society in the interests of the working class. It is a must read for any politician who cares.’

Beth Winter, Labour MP for Cynon Valley, 2019–24

‘When canvassers knock on your door, the key question to ask is not “What will you do?” but “What do you believe?” That’s what this book is all about. The creator of the NHS is well known, and the author of The Political Thought of Aneurin Bevan explores the beliefs and values on which Bevan’s work was founded. The one cannot be understood without the other; read this book, and you'll never be without the right question again.’

Mark Drakeford, First Minister of Wales, 2018–24

‘This study of Aneurin Bevan’s political philosophy is an important contribution to the study of Labour history. Marshalling a range of sources, the author offers a penetrating analysis of Bevan’s ideas in the context of the different Labour traditions. Bevan is a towering figure in twentieth-century British history whose achievements still shape our society today – this book is required reading for anyone wishing to understand his beliefs.’

Nick Thomas-Symonds, HM Paymaster General

‘Among the most important projects for the humanities in Wales today is a study of our nation’s intellectual history. We are familiar with Aneurin Bevan’s voice and his symbolic resonance for the Labour movement. In this ground-breaking volume, Nye Davies explores Bevan’s political thought: the values that informed his actions; his understanding of class and capitalism; his responses to a world witnessing the twilight of the British Empire and emergence of a Cold War; and his views of a British Labour Party that, simultaneously, enabled and continued to frustrate the achievement of his democratic socialist vision.’

Professor Daniel G. Williams, Swansea University

‘Nye Bevan was a thinker, not a theorist. His combative words were hot – sometimes overheated – often spellbinding. His work in making useable, universal, enlightened progress was calculated and cool. He mixed audacity with pragmatism. Some saw him as a Messiah, few can doubt that he was a superb mechanic. All of that complexity is illuminated in this admirably thorough and accessible study of a brave and brilliant parliamentary socialist.’

The Rt Hon. the Lord Kinnock

‘Davies’ book provides us with what has long been needed: a thoroughgoing analysis of Aneurin Bevan’s political thought. His is a lucid, rigorous and original synthesis of the ideas that guided one of the 20th century’s greatest politicians, whose actions changed Britain profoundly. This is an insightful and creative analysis, typified by its location of Bevan’s international politics at the heart of his vision. It marks a crucial intervention in the study of the Labour Party and progressive politics in the UK - and in this regard, exposes the paucity of the politics of the left today, which so readily invokes this Welsh hero.’

Dr Huw Williams, Cardiff University