Broken Vows

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When Tony Blair became prime minister in May 1997 at the age of forty-three, he was the youngest to hold the office since 1812, boasting a 93 percent approval rating and a landslide majority. He promised to modernize Britain with 'New Labour,' focusing on social justice and transparency. However, his tenure faced significant challenges, particularly the controversial invasion of Iraq, which sparked public outrage over government honesty. Alastair Campbell's infamous 'dodgy' dossiers regarding WMDs raised questions about the integrity of New Labour's messaging. Blair's claims of revitalizing schools, hospitals, and welfare services also came under scrutiny, alongside his decision to open the doors to mass immigration. Despite his efforts to confront dictators like Slobodan Milošević and Saddam Hussein, Blair's post-office career has seen him amass wealth by advising controversial leaders. Tom Bower, initially an admirer of Blair, has gained unprecedented access to over 180 officials and military personnel to reveal the complexities of Blair's decade in power. This investigation follows Blair's journey from Downing Street to his current role in global affairs, offering a dramatic re-evaluation of his legacy and the intricate nature of political power.