The last decade of the 17th century saw the rise of a new phenomenon that would forever change Britain: party politics. Beginning with a heated dispute over whether a Roman Catholic — James II — should be allowed to become king, the division between Whigs and Tories defined the main political lines of battle in a highly polarized country for many tumultuous generations.

The Rage of Party recounts the exciting story of how these two party forces — one representing established social forces of the clergy, church, and monarchy, and the other representing emerging powers of economic authority and Protestantism — shaped the critical debates of the era, culminating in a dramatic struggle for peace, piety, and Protestant succession during Queen Anne’s reign.

Their bitter disagreements over religion, economics, and the constitution deeply influenced many of the forces and institutions that shaped the modern world. From violent conflicts and some of the most corrupt and subversive elections in history to a revolution, numerous assassination attempts, and scandals that would make even the most uncontrollable modern politician blush, this extensively researched book shows how a surreal crowd of promoters, hypocrites, cunning con artists, and scheming clerics participated not only in a political clash that threatened a second civil war but also in a cultural war still echoing in 21st-century Britain.

This is a logical and gripping account of the highs and lows of politics during the Whig and Tory battles after the Glorious Revolution, when Great Britain was formed and a new world of money, war, and empire dawned.

Today, party politics consumes us. When did British party politics begin, and how? George Owers’ book provides an exciting analysis, combining vivid portrayals within a masterful narrative.