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The Chamberlain Dynasty represents one of the most influential in British Parliamentary history. In contrast with 'Radical Joe' and his heirs, the Brothers Miliband, the Sisters Eagle and the Cooper-Balls seem dour and insignificant. It is hard indeed to imagine what it would have been like to see the former Foreign Secretary lead his Party and be succeeded fifteen years later by his brother, Peace Prize in hand. However, Austin and Neville both managed it in a way that Ralph's sons seem fated not to.
Yet Joseph Chamberlain never quite lived up to the promise he showed as Mayor of Birmingham. Leaving the Liberal Party owing to his vehement support for a system of Imperial Tariffs as opposed to free trade, his followers joined with the Conservative Party in a coalition that remains effective even to this day. Sadly, despite holding a number of senior positions, including a brief stint as Leader of the Opposition, Chamberlain was never to attain the office that many felt him capable, even destined, to hold.
It could all have been very different.
Readers, starting in the next few weeks, I urge you to read and enjoy;