Britain in the 20th Century: Progress and Decline

Course Lectures

• The Character of Twentieth Century Britain

  Vernon Bogdanor

  Play

  This module examines the profound transformations that Britain experienced throughout the 20th century. A country that once exemplified minimal state interference evolved into one where the state played a significant role in everyday life. This transformation had numerous repercussions, fostering an environment marked by both opportunity and challenges.

  Key themes include:

  • The gradual shift in government roles.
  • The impact of imperialism on domestic policies.
  • The relationship between Britain and the European continent.
• Britain in the 20th Century: Reponses to Decline, 1895-1914

  Vernon Bogdanor

  Play

  In the years leading up to World War I, British statesmen began to recognize the threats to their nation's international and economic standing. This module explores the shifting dynamics of power and how they influenced Britain's policies. The rise of German and American economic strength revealed vulnerabilities within Britain's imperial framework.

  Participants will learn about:

  • The emergence of 'New Liberalism' and collectivism.
  • Imperialism as a reaction to economic decline.
  • Social reforms initiated during this period.
• Britain in the Twentieth Century: The Great War and its Consequences

  Vernon Bogdanor

  Play

  The Great War marked a pivotal moment in British history, fundamentally altering its global role and domestic landscape. This module investigates the war's immediate and long-term consequences on Britain, including shifts in public perception and governmental authority.

  Participants will explore:

  • The social, economic, and political ramifications of the war.
  • Changes in national identity and collective consciousness.
  • The impact of returning soldiers and post-war policies.
• Britain in the Twentieth Century: The Economic Crisis and its Consequences

  Vernon Bogdanor

  Play

  This module addresses the economic crisis of 1931 and the government's drastic measures to counter fiscal challenges. As fears mounted regarding the stability of the pound and potential runs on sterling, the National Government, led by MacDonald and Snowdon, attempted to navigate a complex political landscape.

  Key topics include:

  • The formation of the National Government and its challenges.
  • Trade union opposition and electoral consequences for Labour.
  • The long-lasting effects of economic instability on British politics.
• Britain in the Twentieth Century:

  Vernon Bogdanor

  Play

  This module critiques the foreign policy of the Conservative-dominated National Government and its failure to prevent the impending conflict. The choices made during this period, especially under Neville Chamberlain's leadership, have left a lasting legacy in British political history.

  Participants will analyze:

  • The context of appeasement and its consequences.
  • Public sentiment towards government foreign policy.
  • Debates surrounding preparedness for war.
• Britain in the 20th Century: The Road to War

  Vernon Bogdanor

  Play

  The lead-up to World War II was marked by tension and uncertainty, particularly following the Munich Conference of 1938. This module examines the events leading to the war and the pivotal decisions made by British leaders as Hitler's ambitions expanded.

  Key issues include:

  • The implications of appeasement and its eventual failure.
  • Chamberlain's role and public perception of his actions.
  • Discussions on peace negotiations and Britain’s stance on conflict in 1940.