Author Description

In 1900, West examines the final year of Queen Victoria's reign, a period that simultaneously embodied the confidence of the 19th century and hinted at the uncertainties of the century to come. The book covers a wide range of social, political, and cultural events, presenting a detailed, sometimes acerbic, historical argument. The book's illustrations, many of them rare period photographs, depict both historical figures and scenes from daily life, including Queen Victoria and the construction of the New York subway. West's text features notes accompanying the pictures, along with a central, long essay that offers her insightful perspective.