Short History Of... The Victorians, Part 1 of 2
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Sep 21, 2025 Dr. Amy Milne-Smith, a Professor of History specializing in 19th-century Britain, and Dr. Onyeka Nubia, a British historian focusing on empire and identity, delve into the complexities of the Victorian era. They discuss how Britain became an industrial powerhouse while facing stark social inequalities and moral dilemmas. The guests explore the impact of rapid urbanization and the rise of a new middle class challenging aristocracy. They also tackle the contradictions of Victorian morality, revealing how these historical struggles resonate in today's world.
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Man At The Great Exhibition
- A young man sacrifices a shilling to enter the Great Exhibition and experiences dizzying technological marvels in the Crystal Palace.
- The scene illustrates how the Exhibition made even the poorest feel part of Britain's industrial and imperial world.
Victorian Progress And Paradox
- Queen Victoria's reign coincided with Britain's leap to global industrial and imperial dominance.
- The era mixed technological triumphs with deep social contradictions like inequality and unrest.
Steam Power Reshapes Society
- The Industrial Revolution accelerated under Victoria, reshaping work, transport, and communication.
- Steam power enabled mass production and movement, remaking cities and economies.
