📖 Overview
Norman Longmate (1925-2016) was a British social historian and author known for his detailed accounts of wartime Britain, particularly focusing on civilian life during World War II. His extensive body of work includes over 30 books that combine rigorous research with accessible narrative styles.
Longmate's most influential works include "How We Lived Then" (1971), a comprehensive study of daily life in Britain during WWII, and "The Workhouse" (1974), which examined the Victorian poor law system. His research methods often incorporated firsthand accounts and oral histories, gathering testimonies from hundreds of ordinary citizens who lived through the events he documented.
Having served in the Royal Army Educational Corps during WWII, Longmate brought personal insight to his military-themed works. He later worked as a producer for the BBC and served as a senior editorial staff member at the British Broadcasting Corporation, where he developed historical programming.
The majority of his writing career was devoted to exploring aspects of British social history that had been previously overlooked, particularly the experiences of civilians during wartime. Longmate's work continues to be referenced by historians and researchers studying British home front conditions during WWII and Victorian social conditions.
👀 Reviews
Readers consistently highlight Longmate's ability to blend detailed research with engaging storytelling, particularly in his wartime accounts. His use of first-hand testimonies and personal narratives adds authenticity to historical events.
What readers liked:
- Clear, accessible writing style for complex historical topics
- Integration of personal accounts and oral histories
- Thorough research and documentation
- Focus on everyday people's experiences
- Balance of facts with human interest
What readers disliked:
- Some found certain works overly detailed
- Occasional repetition between books
- Limited coverage of certain geographic areas outside London
- Some dated social perspectives in earlier works
Ratings across platforms:
Goodreads:
"How We Lived Then" - 4.2/5 (200+ ratings)
"The Workhouse" - 4.0/5 (150+ ratings)
Amazon:
"Air Raid" - 4.5/5 (50+ reviews)
"If Britain Had Fallen" - 4.3/5 (30+ reviews)
Multiple readers specifically praise his "How We Lived Then" for its comprehensive coverage of civilian wartime experiences, while "The Workhouse" receives recognition for illuminating a previously understudied aspect of social history.
📚 Books by Norman Longmate
How We Lived Then (1971)
A comprehensive social history of Britain during World War II, based on first-hand accounts and contemporary documents.
The GIs: The Americans in Britain 1942-1945 (1975) Examines the impact of American servicemen stationed in Britain during World War II, including their interactions with locals and influence on British culture.
Air Raid (1976) Detailed account of the German bombing of British cities during World War II, incorporating eyewitness testimonies and official records.
If Britain Had Fallen (1972) Analysis of how Britain might have looked under Nazi occupation, based on German invasion plans and the experience of occupied European countries.
The Workhouse (1974) Chronicles the history of the Victorian workhouse system in Britain, including its administration, daily life, and impact on the poor.
The Real Dad's Army (1974) History of Britain's Home Guard during World War II, drawing on personal accounts and official documentation.
When Britain Went to War (1971) Account of the changes in British society during the first months of World War II, from September 1939 to May 1940.
Hitler's Rockets (1985) Technical and social history of the V-weapons program and its impact on both Germany and Britain during World War II.
The Bombers (1983) History of the RAF Bomber Command's strategic bombing campaign against Germany during World War II.
Island Fortress (1991) Analysis of Britain's defenses and preparedness against invasion during World War II.
The GIs: The Americans in Britain 1942-1945 (1975) Examines the impact of American servicemen stationed in Britain during World War II, including their interactions with locals and influence on British culture.
Air Raid (1976) Detailed account of the German bombing of British cities during World War II, incorporating eyewitness testimonies and official records.
If Britain Had Fallen (1972) Analysis of how Britain might have looked under Nazi occupation, based on German invasion plans and the experience of occupied European countries.
The Workhouse (1974) Chronicles the history of the Victorian workhouse system in Britain, including its administration, daily life, and impact on the poor.
The Real Dad's Army (1974) History of Britain's Home Guard during World War II, drawing on personal accounts and official documentation.
When Britain Went to War (1971) Account of the changes in British society during the first months of World War II, from September 1939 to May 1940.
Hitler's Rockets (1985) Technical and social history of the V-weapons program and its impact on both Germany and Britain during World War II.
The Bombers (1983) History of the RAF Bomber Command's strategic bombing campaign against Germany during World War II.
Island Fortress (1991) Analysis of Britain's defenses and preparedness against invasion during World War II.
👥 Similar authors
Angus Calder wrote extensively about Britain during WWII, focusing on the Home Front and civilian experiences. His work "The People's War" covers similar ground to Longmate's social histories, using personal accounts and archival research.
Richard Collier documented 20th century British social history with emphasis on wartime experiences and daily life of civilians. His research methods and narrative style parallel Longmate's approach to combining individual stories with broader historical context.
David Kynaston chronicles British social history of the post-war period through detailed examination of everyday life and personal testimonies. His "Austerity Britain" series covers the same era and themes as many of Longmate's works.
Peter Hennessy focuses on British government, society, and cold war history using extensive archival research and oral histories. His work examining the social and political structure of post-war Britain complements Longmate's social histories.
Arthur Marwick specialized in British social history during wartime and the cultural changes of the 20th century. His research methodology and focus on how war affected civilian society aligns with Longmate's historical approach.
Richard Collier documented 20th century British social history with emphasis on wartime experiences and daily life of civilians. His research methods and narrative style parallel Longmate's approach to combining individual stories with broader historical context.
David Kynaston chronicles British social history of the post-war period through detailed examination of everyday life and personal testimonies. His "Austerity Britain" series covers the same era and themes as many of Longmate's works.
Peter Hennessy focuses on British government, society, and cold war history using extensive archival research and oral histories. His work examining the social and political structure of post-war Britain complements Longmate's social histories.
Arthur Marwick specialized in British social history during wartime and the cultural changes of the 20th century. His research methodology and focus on how war affected civilian society aligns with Longmate's historical approach.