Aster: A Legacy of International History and Diplomacy
The study of international relations and the catalysts of global conflict requires a meticulous approach to archival research and a deep understanding of political nuance. Aster, a distinguished historian, dedicated his career to examining the intricate diplomatic maneuvers of the 20th century, specifically focusing on the lead-up to the Second World War and the complex figures who shaped modern governance.
Academic Foundations and Early Career
Aster's academic journey began at McGill University in Montreal, where he earned a BA in History and Political Science followed by an MA in History. Seeking to further his expertise in global affairs, he moved to London, England, to pursue a PhD in International History at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), an institution renowned for its focus on social sciences and global policy.
Following his doctoral studies, Aster spent a year lecturing at the University of Glasgow. He eventually returned to London to establish himself as a freelance writer and historian. During this formative period, he served as the principal research assistant to Sir Martin Gilbert, the official biographer of Sir Winston Churchill, who had succeeded Randolph Churchill in that role.
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Collaborations and Early Publications
Aster's work was characterized by high-level collaborations with key diplomatic and political figures. He worked with V. V. Tilea, the Romanian Minister to London from 1938 to 1940, and Sir William Seeds, the British Ambassador to Moscow between 1938 and 1941. He also collaborated with British industrialist A. P. Young to document Young's involvement with the German resistance during the pre-war and wartime eras.
Furthermore, Aster maintained a long-term professional relationship with Arthur Salter, 1st Baron Salter. Through weekly meetings, Aster explored Lord Salter's diverse career, which spanned roles as an international civil servant, Member of Parliament (MP), cabinet minister, journalist, and author.
This period of intense research resulted in the publication of three significant books within four years:
- The Making of the Second World War (1939)
- Anthony Eden: A Biography
- The "X" Documents, The Secret History of Foreign Office Contacts with the German Resistance 1937-1939
In addition to his books, Aster contributed to the public discourse on history as a book reviewer for The Daily Telegraph.
Academic Tenure at the University of Toronto
In 1976, after twelve years in London, Aster returned to Canada to join the Department of History at the University of Toronto. His teaching portfolio was expansive, covering British history from 1485 to the present, Irish history from its origins to the "time of trouble" (the period of conflict in Northern Ireland), the development of the Welfare State, and the diplomatic relations between the great powers.
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Contributions to Historical Scholarship
Throughout his tenure in Canada, Aster remained a prolific author. He focused heavily on appeasement (the policy of making concessions to avoid conflict) and revisionism (the re-examination and questioning of established historical narratives), specifically regarding Neville Chamberlain and the origins of the Second World War.
His scholarly output extended beyond books to include contributions to encyclopedias, research guides, essay collections, and academic journals. His later works include:
- Appeasement and All Souls: A Portrait with Documents, 1937-1939
- Dealing with Josef Stalin: The Moscow Blue Book, 1939
- Power, Policy and Personality: The Life and Times of Lord Salter, 1881–1975
Key Facts
- Education: BA and MA from McGill University; PhD from the London School of Economics.
- Key Association: Principal research assistant to Sir Martin Gilbert for the Winston Churchill biography.
- Specializations: Second World War origins, British and Irish history, and the Welfare State.
- Major Works: Biographies of Anthony Eden and Lord Salter, and research on the "X" Documents.
- Academic Career: Professor at the University of Toronto starting in 1976.
| Period/Phase | Location | Primary Role/Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Early Education | Montreal, Canada | BA and MA from McGill University |
| Doctoral Studies | London, England | PhD in International History (LSE) |
| Freelance Period | London, England | Research assistant to Sir Martin Gilbert; Author of three books |
| Academic Career | Toronto, Canada | Professor at University of Toronto (1976 onwards) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Aster receive his higher education?
Aster earned his BA in History and Political Science and his MA in History from McGill University in Montreal, and later completed a PhD in International History at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
Who were some of Aster's notable collaborators?
He collaborated with Sir Martin Gilbert, V. V. Tilea (Romanian Minister to London), Sir William Seeds (British Ambassador to Moscow), A. P. Young, and Arthur Salter, 1st Baron Salter.
What were the primary themes of Aster's historical research?
His research focused heavily on the origins of the Second World War, the policy of appeasement, Neville Chamberlain, and the diplomatic relations between great powers.
What subjects did Aster teach at the University of Toronto?
His teaching interests included British history (1485 to present), Irish history, the Welfare State, and international diplomatic relations.
Which books did Aster publish during his time in London?
During his London years, he published The Making of the Second World War (1939), Anthony Eden: A Biography, and The "X" Documents, The Secret History of Foreign Office Contacts with the German Resistance 1937-1939.