An understanding of Lloyd George's long and prominent political career elucidates many of the key issues in modern British history. Seen by some as `the man who won the war', he was central to the political activity which appeared to secure the pre-eminence of the Liberal party before the First World War, but which later contributed to its reduction in status. His initiatives in government, particularly in the area of social reform, helped to redefine the relationship between the state and society and laid the basis for the Welfare State. This pamphlet examines these developments with reference to Lloyd George's Welsh background, his personal ambitions and his response to the challenges posed to Liberal society by radical conservatism and socialism. It draws on the wealth of material that is now available and provides a concise, interpretive study.