Red Clydeside: A history of the labour movement in Glasgow 1910-1932

Key political figures of the Red Clydeside period

James Maxton

James Maxton was one of the leading figures of the Independent Labour Party (ILP) in Glasgow and a key political figure during the Red Clydeside period. Like many of his colleagues in the ILP, Maxton was a pacifist and campaigned against Britain’s involvement in the first world war and against the introduction of conscription. Maxton was imprisoned in 1916 for delivering pro-strike speeches at a demonstration to oppose the Munitions Act. Maxton was elected MP for Bridgeton in 1922 and devoted much of his political life to alleviating poverty within the city of Glasgow.

Election address of James Maxton, Labour candidate for Bridgeton in 1924.

Election manifesto of James Maxton, Labour candidate in Bridgeton in the General Election of 1918.

James Maxton 1922 Election postcard entitled 'Vote for the children'.

Election manifesto of James Maxton, Labour candidate in Bridgeton in the General Election of 1922.

Letter written from Duke Street Prison by Maxton to his fiance, Sissie McCallum.

Bust of James Maxton by Kathleen Scott, Lady Kennet (1878-1947).

James Maxton's certificate of exemption from military service in the first world war on grounds of conscientious objection.

Arrest warrant for James Maxton and James MacDougall on the charge of sedition.

Original warrant summons issued to Maxton, Shinwell, Maclean and other speakers following anti-conscription demonstration in Glasgow.

Photograph showing Maxton (second from left) in discussion with John Mclean (third from left).

Photograph showing James Maxton and Davie Kirkwood pictured with attendees at ILP summer school.

Photograph showing (from left to right) John Taylor, Fenner Brockway, John McNair and James Maxton.