A British fantasy film set during World War Two, A Matter of Life and Death begins like many other war films of the era. Squadron leader Peter Carter (David Niven) finds himself flying his badly damaged Lancaster bomber over the English Channel, alone and without a parachute. With apparently no hope of survival, Carter manages […]
1940s Film Review – A Matter of Life & Death Read More »
We’ve all heard about food rationing during the Second World War, but how did it really impact the lives of people living in Britain? On the 29th September 1939, the government held a National Registration Day. Every household was required to complete a form, listing the people who lived in their house. Using this information
Rationing and a Lord Woolton Pie Recipe Read More »
British fashion trends in the 1940’s were heavily influenced by the Second World War. Not only because of the mood of the nation, but also because certain materials were incredibly hard to find. Factories and their workers were taken over for making uniforms instead of civilian clothes, wool was prioritised for uniforms and silk for
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The NHS: A Look Back at Britain’s Historic Healthcare System (1948-Present) On July 5th, 1948, the National Health Service (NHS) opened its doors, marking a pivotal moment in British history. Before the NHS, accessing quality healthcare was a significant financial burden for many. This article explores the pre-NHS landscape, the core principles of the NHS,
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To address the challenges of a second world war the government established a number of new departments to assist in their duties. Responsible for national food production and supply, The Ministry of Food played a vital role in feeding the nation through almost six years of conflict. Here are our top ten interesting facts about
The Ministry of Food in the 40s Read More »
In a recent post, A Trip To The Pictures, we looked at the popularity of picture houses in the 1940’s. But what other forms of entertainment were on offer? Entertainment At Home It was at least another decade before most British households could afford a television. The wireless offered entertainment and information for adults and
Free Time in the Forties Read More »
As the world war progressed well into the 1940’s, importing food became increasingly difficult. Many strategies were used to try and address this, from reforming the Women’s Land Army to rationing food supplies and launching the Dig for Victory campaign. Nevertheless, a lack of important vitamins was clearly having a negative impact on the health
Rosehip Syrup – A 1940s Vitamin Boost Read More »
Citizen Kane Released in 1941 by Mercury Productions, Citizen Kane was the debut film for Orson Welles. At just twenty five years old Welles produced, co-wrote and directed the film, as well as playing in the starring role. The plot examines the life and legacy of wealthy newspaper publisher and industrial magnate Charles Foster Kane.
5 Famous Films of the Forties Read More »
With the outbreak of war in late 1939, attempts were made by the government to close all places of popular entertainment, including the cinemas. Mostly located in city centres and regularly packed with men, women and children, it was feared that cinemas posed a danger during bombing campaigns. But a public outcry meant that the
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The Shadow of War and the Strain on Industry As the ominous clouds of war gathered over Europe and finally erupted in September 1939, Britain braced itself for a conflict that would demand every ounce of its national strength. The declaration of war triggered an immediate mobilisation, with the implementation of national service drawing young
Britain’s Wartime Coal Crisis: The Unsung Heroes of the Bevin Boys Read More »
