Status
Available
Genres
Publication
New York : St. Martin's Press, 2000.
Description
An insider's history of the Spencer family, this book tells the family's story from the sheepfarmers of the 16th century through the Civil War and then the relationship with the Marlboroughs, on through the 19th century when the third Earl was one of the architects of the 1832 Reform Bill, to recent years and the death of Princess Diana. In the last chapter, Charles Spencer writes about his own views of the family's history and what hopes he has for the future.
User reviews
LibraryThing member JohnJohnsonII
There should have been a lot more genealogy included in the book. I can't imagine any one outside the Spencer family getting much value out of this book.
LibraryThing member Limelite
Enjoyed reading about the many characters in this ancient noble family; so many of them, both male and female, involved themselves in the politics of their time; many held high public office, almost all acquitting themselves well; only a few rakes and wastrels, and one or two solidly eccentric
Charles Spencer's style is inviting and accessible. The book is a painless way to get an intimate view of moments in history that are family-centric. My only criticism is that he backed away from examining his father and his family (Diana), deferring to discretion when it came to looking at the contentious divorce of his parents.
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characters as well as a fair share of meddling elders.Charles Spencer's style is inviting and accessible. The book is a painless way to get an intimate view of moments in history that are family-centric. My only criticism is that he backed away from examining his father and his family (Diana), deferring to discretion when it came to looking at the contentious divorce of his parents.
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