Citizens of London
the Americans who stood with Britain in its darkest, finest hour
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4.5 • 2 Ratings
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- £8.49
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- £8.49
Publisher Description
This enthralling study is the behind-the-scenes story of how the United States forged its wartime alliance with Britain.
It brings out of history’s shadows the three key American players in London: Edward R. Murrow, the handsome, chain-smoking news reporter; Averell Harriman, the hard-driving millionaire who ran FDR’s Lend-Lease programme in London; and John G. Winant, the shy, idealistic US ambassador. Citizens of London examines how these men fought to save Britain in its darkest hour. Each formed close ties with Winston Churchill — so much so that all became romantically involved with members of the prime minister’s family.
Drawing on a variety of primary sources, Lynne Olson skilfully depicts the dramatic personal journeys of these men who, determined to save Britain from Hitler, helped convince a cautious FDR and reluctant American public to back the British at a critical time. Deeply human, brilliantly researched, and beautifully written, Citizens of London is a triumph.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
The Anglo-American alliance in WWII was not inevitable, writes former Baltimore Sun correspondent Olson (Troublesome Young Men). In this ingenious history, he emphasizes the role of three prominent Americans living in London who helped bring it about. Best known was Edward R. Murrow, head of CBS radio's European bureau after 1937. His pioneering live broadcasts during the blitz made him a celebrity, and Olson portrays a man who worked tirelessly to win American support for Britain. Most admirable of the three was John Winant, appointed American ambassador in 1941. A true humanitarian, he skillfully helped craft the British-American alliance. And most amusing was Averell Harriman, beginning a long public service career. In 1941, FDR sent the wealthy, ambitious playboy to London to oversee Lend-Lease aid. He loved the job, but made no personal sacrifices, living a luxurious life as he hobnobbed with world leaders and carried on an affair with Churchill's daughter-in-law. Olson, an insightful historian, contrasts the idealism of Winant and Murrow with the pragmatism of Harriman. But all three men were colorful, larger-than-life figures, and Olson's absorbing narrative does them justice. 16 pages of b&w photos.
