Royal Over-seas League, The

In 1910, when Evelyn Wrench founded the Royal Over-Seas League, King George V was on the throne, the British Empire seemed invincible and for most people international travel was a new and exciting opportunity. One hundred years later, the world and Britain's place in it has been transformed almost beyond recognition. Yet the League has weathered all these changes and now enters its second century with a renewed sense of energy and purpose. How has the ROSL developed since 1910 and responded to the fundamental shift from Empire into Commonwealth? What are the enduring aims and values, shared by all members of the League, which inform its activities? And how will it continue to evolve and find its place over the next hundred years?_x000D__x000D_This engaging book offers a concise history of the first hundred years of the Royal Over-Seas League, drawing out the many highlights of its eventful history as well as the values and attitudes that underpin its achievements. The League has always aimed to be more than just another London club. From its foundation, membership has been open to everyone, regardless of race, creed or gender, which has helped shape its distinctive character. Established by Evelyn Wrench as a celebration of the ideals of Empire, its work within the Commonwealth remains active and it continues to innovate and explore new spheres of interest - in its charitable activities, for example through special projects abroad in Namibia, as well as through its sponsorship of high profile artistic competitions, whose winners have ranged from Jacqueline du Pr to acclaimed portrait artist Tai-Shan Schierenberg._x000D__x000D_The Royal Over-Seas League is lavishly illustrated with images from all aspects of the League's life and full of lively anecdotes about the many distinguished figures who have played a part in its creation and development. Inspired by the ideals of Cecil Rhodes and John Ruskin, Evelyn Wrench had the support of such diverse figures as Lord Northcliffe, Lord Baden-Powell and Earl Mountbatten in its development. Contributors to the magazine Overseas have included writers from George Bernard Shaw and A.A.Milne to Dame Freya Stark. A delightful commemoration of the rich history of the Royal Over-Seas League, this book will inform and entertain anyone who is curious to find out more about this distinctive and important organisation.