About
A pioneering female politician who thought women didn't need the vote; a conservative who shared platforms with communists; a shy public speaker who travelled the world speaking for Spanish refugees: the formidable Duchess of Atholl was full of contradictions.
Born into an ancient Scottish family and married to a philandering duke, Kitty rose above the constraints of class and convention to become a tireless advocate for women and children. By her election as the first Scottish female MP in 1923, she was one of the most prominent women in Scotland – and that was well before she shocked Westminster with outspoken rebellions against her own government.
She stood with Spanish refugees and challenged fascism, visited war zones and campaigned with her political opponents, criticised tyrants and wrote her own political playbook. In Red Duchess Kitty Atholl's extraordinary life is brought to the spotlight she has long deserved – a compelling story of courage, conviction and a woman who refused to play by the rules.
Born into an ancient Scottish family and married to a philandering duke, Kitty rose above the constraints of class and convention to become a tireless advocate for women and children. By her election as the first Scottish female MP in 1923, she was one of the most prominent women in Scotland – and that was well before she shocked Westminster with outspoken rebellions against her own government.
She stood with Spanish refugees and challenged fascism, visited war zones and campaigned with her political opponents, criticised tyrants and wrote her own political playbook. In Red Duchess Kitty Atholl's extraordinary life is brought to the spotlight she has long deserved – a compelling story of courage, conviction and a woman who refused to play by the rules.
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Reviews
"'Gray skilfully takes us from the optimistic advances of late-Victorian Britain into the political and social earthquake of two World Wars. Through Kitty, we see the world as it appeared to someone in a unique position. Both traditionalist and pioneer, changing her outlook and willing to learn, yet always remaining loyal to herself, Kitty has inexplicably faded into the mists of history until now
Peter Cardwell
"'With this admirable book, Amy Gray puts the Duchess of Atholl back where she belongs, in the front row of twentieth century politics. Meticulous research and illuminating use of contemporary sources make Red Duchess a fascinating and hugely valuable addition to the political and social history of the period.' - Professor John Bew, author of Citizen Clem"
Professor John Bew