'An interesting collection of papers which deserves to be used for the interesting insight it offers into particular aspects of welfare history.' - Journal of Social Policy'This is a very enjoyable and informative text for anyone interested in the historical emergence of the welfare state and the contemporary discourse on welfare contribution, provision and entitlement ... a thoroughly enjoyable and informative read.' - The Journal of Contemporary Health'This is a useful and well-written collection which makes a forceful argument for the avoidance of stereotypes in welfare history.' - Economic History Review'This volume has appeared at a strategic moment. By complicating our understanding of just how contradictory and contested the emergence of the 20th century welfare state was, the contributors allow us to look back at where we hae come from without undue nostalgia.' - Biosocial Science