Identity Crisis in Britain: A Historical Perspective
Back in 2007, historian Rafe Heydel-Mankoo, whose parents moved to the U.K. in the 1960s from Canada, expressed concerns about what he termed the “greatest identity crisis” in Europe, particularly affecting the English.
In a recent discussion, BlazeTV host Nick Freitas pointed out to Heydel-Mankoo that the current state of Britain, characterized by various sectarian demonstrations, seems to validate his earlier claims.
Freitas asked him, “What did you see in 2007 that so many others overlooked?”
Heydel-Mankoo explained that he observed the emergence of identity politics. He noted that in the U.K., there are distinct groups—the Scots, the Welsh, the Northern Irish, and the English. He remarked on the peculiar dynamic where expressions of nationalism by the Scots and Welsh were seen as progressive, while similar expressions from the English were often deemed racist.
He highlighted the irony in this situation, reflecting on England’s significant contributions to the modern world through the Industrial Revolution and the establishment of countries like America, Canada, and Australia, along with the English language and parliamentary democracy. Despite these contributions, England appeared unable to celebrate its own identity.
During this period, he noted a rapid rise in “multiculturalism.” It seemed everyone was encouraged to take pride in their various identities—from being part of a Muslim community to being African, or identifying as LGBTQ+. However, he felt the overarching national identity, which he believes should unify these various identities, was overlooked.
“Since then, there has been a leftward shift in our institutions,” he explained, saying they have become tightly controlled by one ideology, drastically affecting people’s worldviews. He feels Britain has transitioned into a “postrevolutionary society,” marking a subtle but profound shift in cultural and societal standards.
Heydel-Mankoo attributes this gradual transformation primarily to former Prime Minister Tony Blair, suggesting it’s been a 25-year project that is now essentially complete.
He observed, “All our institutions may look the same, but the people who now run them are vastly different from those who established them originally. It’s as if they are ‘cuckoos in the nest’.” He criticized the contemporary narrative that portrays Britain’s historical legacy as fundamentally flawed, suggesting that many now view it through the lens of original sin, which he equated with racism.
As Britain’s history and cultural foundation face relentless critique, Heydel-Mankoo notes that the left seems to be redefining the narrative, allowing for the creation of “new foundational myths,” such as the concept that diversity is what built Britain.
“That’s just absurd,” he stated firmly, recalling that there hasn’t been a significant immigrant population in Britain for centuries, suggesting that the last significant group arrived around 600 AD. He pointed out the demographic shift he’s witnessed personally, stating, “When I was born, Britain was 97% white British, and now it’s only 74%.”
The full conversation with Heydel-Mankoo offers deeper insights into this pressing issue. To catch more of this discussion, you might want to look for the episode on various platforms, including BlazeTV and YouTube.
