Michael tackles the abiding image of Britain's lack of preparedness for the Great War. Read more
now playing
The Tides of War
Michael tackles the abiding image of Britain's lack of preparedness for the Great War.
Cultural Upheaval
Michael challenges the idea that modernism was a reaction to the shock and savagery of WWI
Labour Relations & the Triple Alliance
Michael challenges the notion that industrial unrest began with the General Strike of 1926
Poverty
Michael Portillo explores the pre-war attitudes to poverty, both in town and country.
Politics and the Tory Gamble
Michael examines the Tories of the day, who appeared to be dicing with political death.
The Empire
Michael explores the tensions that existed before 1914 between the Empire and its colonies
The Great Change
Michael Portillo talks to a number of historians about the turmoil of the pre-war years.