This book is the 1995 second edition of Gareth Elwyn Jones's highly-regarded survey of the history of Wales in modern times, first published in 1984. It explores first a pre-industrial society, dominated by the landed gentry, and goes on to discuss the legacy of the Industrial Revolution. It was industrialisation which transformed the face and fortune of Wales as well as its place in British society. In both main sections of the book the author gives due attention to the economic and social structure before investigating administrative, political, religious and educational developments. This edition contains updated reference material and a new final chapter.