The Diaries of Chips Channon is a three-volume book written by MP Henry “Chips” Channon. The book is a collection of Channon’s diaries spanning from 1906 to 1958. The diaries contain personal information about Channon’s life as well as his observations of British politics and high society at the time. Volume One of The Diaries of Chips Channon covers his early years in politics until the outbreak of the First World War.
The Prologue of Volume One introduces the reader to Channon’s upbringing and early ambitions to become involved in politics. He recounts his fascination with the court of King George V and being chosen as a Member of Parliament of Eastbourne. He mused about his ambition of becoming a minister, writing “I wanted to be a minister of the crown… but I knew too that my achievements as an MP would depend greatly on the power of my personality.”
Chapter One explores Channon’s time as an MP in the 1910s. He talks about the outbreak of the First World War and his decision to enlist in the Army despite being a Member of Parliament. He fondly recalls his work under Winston Churchill on the Dardanelles campaign and his holiday in Cannes. Throughout this chapter, Channon paints a vivid picture of the society and politics of the early 20th century.
In Chapter Two, Channon recounts his time as an Army Officer and his meetings with the British Prime Minister, Lloyd George. Despite being away from home, Channon is very much still involved with British politics, as he is in constant communication with his fellow MPs and constantly attends political events. He also updates his diary with the events taking place in Europe. One event Channon talks about at length is the secret peace mission of Emperor Karl I of Austria-Hungary to negotiate peace terms with the British and French governments.
In Chapter Three, Channon returns home following the end of the war and finds himself in the midst of political upheaval. He discusses his involvement in the Irish Home Rule debate as well as going to Paris to negotiate the Treaty of Versailles. He also talks about the rise of Labour and the increased influence of the United States of America in British affairs.
The fourth and final chapter of Volume One finds Channon discussing the state of the British Empire. He talks about the increasing wealth disparity between the upper and lower classes, as well as the decline of Britain’s power on the world stage following the war. He also talks at length about the horrors of the Russian Revolution and the fear that it could happen in Britain. In the chapter, Channon also discusses his feelings at the time, admitting that he was becoming increasingly pessimistic about the future of his country and “the ultimate doom of the British Empire.”
The Diaries of Chips Channon: Volume One is a unique and fascinating look into the personal life and political observations of one of Britain’s most famous and influential politicians. Channon’s diaries offer a rare insight into the society and politics of 20th century Britain, as well as the personal thoughts and feelings of a man in a period of immense change and upheaval. For readers interested in learning more about British history, The Diaries of Chips Channon: Volume One is an essential read.
