During the 19th and 20th centuries, Birmingham provided the platform for many of the most important political speeches made outside Parliament. Delivered by some of the greatest orators of their day. Many of these speeches changed the course of political life in Britain and sometimes, the world beyond. In this fascinating new book historian Andrew Reekes discusses the impact of some of these speeches, the charismatic orators who delivered them and the mercurial relationship between orator and audience. Reekes also explores the importance of Birmingham as a platform at times of great social and economic change when the town – and later the city – was a centre of radicalism which challenged the establishment thinking of London.

Members are invited to the book launch at Waterstones, 1st Floor, High Street on Wednesday 10 February at 6pm to meet the author and hear him discuss highlights of his book with Dr Malcolm Dick, Head of the Centre for West Midlands History at the University of Birmingham and a member of our Heritage Committee.

The event is free and open to all. Drinks and canapés will be served from 6.00pm and the discussion will begin at 7.00pm.

RSVP online.