Stop the War Demonstration
The crowds gather in Trafalgar Square to join a rally for peace - two days before Britain declares war on Germany.
Crowds gathered on Sunday 2 August 1914 for a peace rally in Trafalgar Square, two days before Britain declared war on Germany. This was one of several protests organised across the UK by the Independent Labour Party and it was addressed by Keir Hardie MP, among many others, with 10,000 people reportedly in attendance.
Public opinion was divided about the imminent war, with many wondering why Britain should get involved with a conflict in the Balkans and Eastern Europe. There was another gathering on 4 August in support of Britain’s intervention in the war.
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The First World War
From the home front to the front line: life during the 'war to end all wars' as seen through the lens of newsreel, propaganda and drama.
Films made and shown in Britain between 1914 and 1918 reflect the scale and horror of the unfolding conflict across multiple theatres of war, but also capture a nation trying to get on with everyday life. Filmmakers shot everything from local events and celebrations to short comedies that provided a much-needed dose of light relief in difficult times. Insights into the changing role of women in wartime and Britain's reliance on colonial troops can also be found.
After WWI, Armistice Day and Remembrance ceremonies were often caught on film, while British cinema produced epic dramas addressing the experiences of the Great War into the 1920s and beyond.
12 videos in this collection
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The Austrian Tragedy Gaumont Graphic No. 342
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Bully Boy
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Christmas at the Front Topical Budget 175-1
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"Stop the War" Demonstration in Trafalgar Square Gaumont Graphic No. 352
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Anti-German Riots in Liverpool following the Loss of 'Lusitania'
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From Trinidad to Serve the Empire Topical Budget 230-2
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Keep the Home Fires Burning
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London: Air Raid, 1917
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Australian Troops at the Pyramids
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Rescue Work in No Man's Land Topical Budget 332-2
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