'The Isle of Man Tourist Trophy Motor-Cycle Races 1907 to the 1960s: Politics, Economics and National Identity'

Date(s): October 2008

Creator(s): Vaukins, Simon

Scope & Content: Illustrated PhD thesis submitted to the Department of History, University of Lancaster. The author examines the heyday of the TT races, exploring the how and why the races were established. His conclusions include the observation that the study of sport enables an examination of politics, economics and the construction and consumption of a national identity. 'We have also seen that when a sport becomes embedded in a sense-of-self it is difficult for it to be given up, much like the Spanish and their bullfighting. Undoubtedly the TT causes inconvenience to the Manx people, but the races continue to be tolerated because of the prestige they bring to the island and because they have become part of who the Manx think they are'. Chapters covered: politics, economics, national identity and the origins of the TT races 1904-1914; during the inter war years 1919-1939; post-war 1945-1960. Appendix: TT results of first three places and fastest lap 1907-1960.

Language: English

Extent: 1 volume

Physical description: paper printout from CD

Item name: thesis

Collection: Manuscript Archive

Level: ITEM

ID number: MS 12024/1

Record class: Private

Access conditions: No regulations or restrictions are implemented on this material. Advance notification of a research visit is advisable by emailing library@mnh.gov.im

Comments