Liberalism and the Social Problem

This collection of speeches from 1906 to 1909 documents Churchill’s early years as a Member of the Liberal Party in the House of Commons.

Sir Winston Churchill is admired as a brilliant Conservative politician and statesman—but he wasn't always a Conservative. In 1904, he crossed over to join the Liberal party, becoming Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies and later joining the Liberal Cabinet. This collection of his speeches reveals Churchill's dramatic shift toward a more progressive governing philosophy.

Here, the young MP’s fervently argues his positions on some of the most important issues of the time, including the "People's Budget," a highly controversial new wealth distribution initiative. The resulting conflict between the House of Lords and the House of Commons led to the passage of the Parliament Act of 1911, asserting the House of Commons' legislative powers. This compilation of speeches is both an enlightening historical document and a fascinating display of the future Prime Minister’s political insights and oratory skill.