Historian David Kynaston's latest volume, "Deep into the Sixties: Britain 1965-66", provides an in-depth account of 18 months in post-war Britain. The book, which runs to nearly 700 pages, covers the period from February 1965 to July 1966, forming part of his larger project on British history from 1945-79.
Kynaston's work balances political, economic, industrial, educational, and cultural developments with personal stories of daily life. He highlights the persistence of issues like racism, citing the 1965 visit of civil rights activist Malcolm X to Smethwick, where he experienced racism first-hand.
The book details significant cultural shifts, particularly in education, including Harold Wilson's vision for merit-based advancement and the move towards comprehensive schools. It also notes the arrival of 30 polytechnics over eight years and the Open University. Additionally, Kynaston explores the rebuilding of cities through slum clearances and the construction of tower blocks.
Social liberalisation is another key theme, with advancements in birth control, abortion law, and consensual sex between men. The book also touches on the increasing opportunities for women and the growth of the service industry, which employed half the workforce by 1966.