Never Despair

More about the book

The final volume of the official biography covers Churchill’s life from the end of World War II in 1945 until his death nearly two decades later. It begins with him at the height of his power as the leader of a victorious Britain. At the Potsdam Conference in July 1945, Churchill, Stalin, and Truman sought to shape postwar Europe. However, upon returning to Britain for the general election results, he was unexpectedly ousted from office. Over the next six years, he focused on reviving the Conservative Party while warning against Communist ambitions, advocating for Franco-German reconciliation, promoting a united Europe, and striving to maintain strong ties with the United States. His goal was not confrontation but conciliation based on Western strength and unity. In October 1951, he became prime minister again, facing the new threat of the hydrogen bomb. Following Eisenhower's election in 1952 and Stalin's death in 1953, Churchill sought a new summit conference, but ill health and pressure led to his resignation in April 1955. In retirement, he traveled, resumed painting, completed his four-volume History of the English-Speaking Peoples, and remained hopeful about resolving global conflicts through statesmanship. His enduring motto, “Never despair,” reflected his belief in humanity’s resilience, even as he faced a gradual decline in health. Until nearly his ninetieth year, he maintained hope for the future.