Jane Rosen is the author of the Society's new history, published in July 2024. An Unpopular Cause: A Centenary History of the Society for Cultural Relations with the USSR 1924-2024 is a highly readable illustrated history of the work the Society has carried out over the past 100 years, covering its important yet underrated role in the field of British-Soviet relations.

In 1924, seven years after the October Russian Revolution, the Society for Cultural Relations with the USSR (SCR) was formed by a group of like-minded individuals interested in what was taking place in this new country. From the beginning its object was to collect and diffuse information in both countries on developments in science, education, philosophy, art, literature, and social and economic life, in order to forward the intellectual and technical progress of both peoples. The book follows the history of the Society during its early existence as diplomatic relations were established, dissolved and then reformed; its important work during the Second World War; the difficulties it faced during the Cold War and beyond; and, finally, how it adapted to the break-up of the Soviet Union.

The talk will be followed by a book signing session with a glass of fizz (non-alcoholic refreshments also available). Book purchases @ £15 per book can be made by debit / credit card or cash.

There is also the opportunity to view the Society's new exhibition A Centenary History of the SCRSS in 100+ Objects with exhibits (photographs, publications and rare artefacts) from the Society's archives, displayed on three floors of the building.

Booking: pre-booking via Eventbrite is essential. Please note: there will be no tickets available on the door due to space restrictions. Booking opens at 09.00 on Monday 2 September. Booking closes at 11.00 on the day of the event. Normal ticket prices apply.

Jane Rosen is SCRSS Honorary Archivist and an SCRSS Trustee. She is a is a librarian by profession and has worked in specialist historical and cultural libraries, including the SCR. She has a research interest in radical and working-class children’s literature.