Begin your journey through one of the most pivotal periods in human history with "The Gathering Storm," the seminal first volume of Winston S. Churchill's monumental six-volume memoir, "The Second World War." This particular copy is a June 1948 Second Impression (or "Second Printing"), published by Houghton Mifflin Company, making it a very early edition of this foundational work, complete with its original dust jacket.
A Synopsis of the Book:
The Gathering Storm provides a historical account of the tumultuous events that led to World War II. Churchill's narrative focuses on the period between the end of World War I and the German invasion of Poland in 1939. Drawing on his personal observations, Churchill offers his unique perspective on the political and diplomatic decisions of the era, the failures of appeasement policies, and the rise of Nazi Germany. This volume serves as both a historical record and a personal reflection, as Churchill masterfully interweaves his own experiences and insights to analyze the key players and the critical turning points of this era.
About the Author:
Winston S. Churchill (1874-1965) was an iconic British statesman, an orator, and a prolific author, who famously served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during World War II. His achievements are vast and include his resolute leadership of Britain during its darkest hour and his unwavering defiance against the totalitarian threat of Nazi Germany. Beyond his illustrious political career, Churchill was a gifted writer and historian, earning the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1953 for his historical and biographical works, including "The Second World War."
Historical Context:
This book was published in June 1948, just three years after the end of World War II. The book's publication reflects the immediate demand for Churchill's account, and its rapid reprinting within the same month shows its immense popularity. The book is a primary source from one of the war's most central figures, offering a crucial firsthand perspective on the events that shaped the modern world. The prior ownership inscription, "Selma Yeates," provides a unique touch of personal provenance, connecting this specific copy to a reader from the immediate post-war era.
Why This Book Is Valuable:
This June 1948 Second Impression of "The Gathering Storm" with its original dust jacket is a valuable and highly collectible item.
Primary Source: The book offers a crucial firsthand perspective from one of the war's most central figures, making it an indispensable primary source for historians.
Literary Significance: As the first volume of Churchill's magnum opus, which earned him the Nobel Prize in Literature, acquiring an early printing of this work is a significant addition to any collection.
Original Dust Jacket: The presence of the original dust jacket, despite any wear, is paramount for collectors, as it represents the book in its complete, as-issued state.
Provenance: The prior owner's inscription, "Selma Yeates," though not famous, provides a unique touch of personal provenance, connecting this specific copy to a reader from the immediate post-war era.
Condition:
Please review each photo carefully for wear and usage. This item came from a local estate sale and was in the previous owner's home office for many years. The red cloth binding shows some minor wear and rubbing, consistent with its age. Please note the visible wear to the dust jacket, including rubbing, creasing, and significant tears/loss of material. The prior owner's inscription is clearly visible on the front endpaper. Send me a message if you have questions or would like additional photos.
Author: Winston S. Churchill
Publication Date: 1948 (Second Impression, June)
Edition: N/A
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Company
Place of Publication: Boston
Origin: United States
Provenance: Selma Yeates
Book Cover Type: Hardcover, with dust jacket.
Genre: History, World War II History, Biography, Political History
