The National Review (London)

The National Review (London). Founded in 1883 by the journalist and author Alfred Austin, this monthly periodical became a significant voice for Conservative and Unionist opinion in late-Victorian and Edwardian Britain. Distinct from its later American namesake, it was renowned for its high literary quality and influential commentary on imperial, foreign, and domestic affairs until its closure in 1960. The magazine served as a crucial platform for intellectual Toryism and was intimately connected with the political and literary establishment of its time.

History and founding

The magazine was established in March 1883 by Alfred Austin, a poet who would later become Poet Laureate. Its creation was a direct response to the growing influence of liberal journals like the Nineteenth Century and aimed to provide a sophisticated outlet for Conservative thought. Under the long editorship of Leopold Maxse from 1893 to 1932, the publication's prestige and political impact grew enormously, particularly through its vehement opposition to H. H. Asquith's government and its advocacy for British re-armament before the First World War. Following Maxse's death, editorship passed to his wife, Kitty Maxse, and later to others, but the magazine never regained its former commanding influence, eventually merging with the English Review in 1932 and ceasing independent publication in 1960.

Political stance and editorial line

The editorial line was consistently and fiercely Unionist, imperialist, and anti-socialist. Under Leopold Maxse, it became famous for its campaigns against the Liberal government's policies on Home Rule for Ireland and for its early, strident warnings about the rising threat of the German Empire. It was a staunch critic of appeasement in the 1930s and maintained a robust Atlanticist perspective, supporting close ties with the United States. The review also took strong positions on naval policy, demanding preparedness against the Kaiser's fleet, and was a vocal opponent of the Soviet Union and communism throughout the Cold War.

Notable contributors and editors

A remarkable roster of eminent figures contributed to its pages. Early contributors included the philosopher Herbert Spencer and the poet Oscar Wilde. Under Leopold Maxse, it published work by leading statesmen like Arthur Balfour, Lord Curzon, and F. E. Smith. Literary figures such as Hilaire Belloc, G. K. Chesterton, and Max Beerbohm were also associated with the magazine. Later, significant contributions came from historians like A. J. P. Taylor and politicians including Harold Macmillan and Enoch Powell, reflecting its enduring role as a forum for serious conservative debate.

Cultural and political influence

The magazine exerted considerable influence on British politics, particularly through its relentless campaigning which helped shape public opinion on critical issues like naval expansion and opposition to Home Rule. Its warnings about German militarism contributed to the pre-First World War political climate. While its direct political power waned after the First World War, it remained an important intellectual bellwether for the Conservative right, debating the challenges of fascism, welfare state reforms, and decolonization. Its legacy is that of a principal organ for the intellectual underpinnings of 20th-century British Toryism and imperialism.

Publication details and circulation

Published monthly in London, the magazine maintained a relatively small but highly influential circulation, primarily among the political class, aristocracy, and intelligentsia. It was known for its substantial, lengthy articles rather than news reporting. After merging with the English Review in 1932, it continued for a time as the National and English Review before eventually ceasing publication in 1960. Its archives provide a vital record of right-wing thought and debate spanning from the Berlin Conference era to the dawn of the Space Age.

Category:Conservative magazines published in the United Kingdom Category:Political magazines published in the United Kingdom Category:Publications established in 1883 Category:Publications disestablished in 1960