An introduction to the history of the welfare state in Britain, forcusing primarily on the post-World War Two period. The book is divided into two parts. Part 1 provides a chronological overview of the development of the welfare state from its origins in the nineteenth century right up to the present. Part II concentrates on the history of the five main welfare service sectors (health, education, personal social services, housing and social security). The book is concluded with an assessment of the welfare state in Britain today and the options for change as we approach the new century.