William Tyler
Churchill: The Political Animal 1900-22
Summary
The first of three planned discussions on Churchill, this lecture begins with Churchill’s election to the British House of Commons in 1900 when he was 26 years old. Despite a delayed start in his political career due to a prior commitment in America, Churchill was determined to prove himself, both to the world and to honor the memory of his father, Lord Randolph Churchill, who had achieved political success and had somewhat underestimated Winston’s abilities. Highlights also include Churchill’s lifelong struggle with finances, his somewhat impulsive spending habits, and his relationship with his wife Clemmie. Part 1 of 3.
William Tyler
William Tyler has spent his entire professional life in adult education, beginning at Kingsgate College in 1969. He has lectured widely for many public bodies, including the University of Cambridge and the WEA, in addition to speaking to many clubs and societies. In 2009, William was awarded the MBE for services to adult education, and he has previously been a scholar in residence at the London Jewish Cultural Centre.
No, he wasn’t trained or coached. His excellent writing came from the fact that he was held back at Harrow School, and wasn’t allowed to do classics. And as a punishment, he had to do English, which he adored. His speaking skills were first developed in the States when he met a rather dodgy ex-senator who was an excellent speaker and Churchill picked up skills from there.
If you’re referring to the issue of the name of the royal family when Philip made speeches saying he was merely an amoeba, well, yes, you could regard that as conservative.
Because in war, nothing is ever perfect and you have to do the best you can. And it isn’t Churchill’s decision alone. What’s wrong about Gallipoli is every bit was wrong. This was, in terms of Normandy, they had looked very carefully at all the beaches, and this was the best they could find. There was nothing better that they could have done.