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1913: The Year Before Episodes

  1.

    The Great Change

    Michael Portillo talks to a number of historians about the turmoil of the pre-war years.

  2. The Empire

    Michael explores the tensions that existed before 1914 between the Empire and its colonies

  3. Politics and the Tory Gamble

    Michael examines the Tories of the day, who appeared to be dicing with political death.

  4. Poverty

    Michael Portillo explores the pre-war attitudes to poverty, both in town and country.

  5. Labour Relations & the Triple Alliance

    Michael challenges the notion that industrial unrest began with the General Strike of 1926

  6. Cultural Upheaval

    Michael challenges the idea that modernism was a reaction to the shock and savagery of WWI

  7. The Tides of War

    Michael tackles the abiding image of Britain's lack of preparedness for the Great War.

  8. The Irish Question

    Michael challenges the idea that Irish rebellion started with the Easter Rising of 1916.

  9. Women's Rebellion

    Michael Portillo explores the depth and urgency of the pre-war campaign for women's votes.

  10. The Long Summer

    Michael Portillo samples the atmosphere of June 1913.