The Blair Years

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A revelatory account of Tony Blair’s tumultuous leadership, this work gathers extracts from the diaries of Alastair Campbell—Blair’s spokesman from 1994 to 2003, his press secretary, strategist, and closest confidant. It chronicles contemporary British politics and the rise of New Labour, providing a vital record of a remarkable decade. Key events include the Labour Party’s resurgence, the war on terror, the death of Princess Diana, and peace negotiations in Northern Ireland. It also covers conflicts in Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq, as well as the 2003 Hutton Inquiry, the year Campbell resigned. The narrative highlights Blair’s relationships with world leaders, including Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, while presenting a close-up view of Blair making pivotal decisions under intense pressure. Alastair Campbell, often seen as the second most powerful figure in Britain, was central to the founding of New Labour and the 1997 election victory. His diaries are brutally frank, often humorous, and always engaging, offering an insider's perspective on government life. This account reveals the raw nature of politics, detailing crises, scandals, and the relentless scrutiny of the media, while also providing human insights into some of the world’s most influential figures. It is a compelling portrayal of life at the top, as witnessed by a key player.