Selling Britain: From Rule Britannia to London 2012
When: Wed 3 Jul 2013, 18.30-20.00
Where: Conference Centre, British Library
Price: £7.50 / £5 concessions
From the dawn of ‘Britannia’ to the London 2012 Olympics, Britain has sought to ensure its global influence. The imposition of a vast Empire through naval strength and economic dominance has gradually been replaced by subtler methods of positioning, cultural diplomacy and political brokering. Throughout, there has been an ongoing message of Britain as the champion of democracy, decency and moral authority.
The story and present reality of selling Britain is unpacked by journalist and author Yasmin Alibhai-Brown, acclaimed historian Linda Colley, and former British Ambassador to Washington, Nigel Sheinwald.
The event will be chaired by Jonathan Freedland, columnist for the Guardian.