Britain's Imperial Past and Identity lecture

Watch Abdul Mohamud, a doctoral research fellow at University College London, and Robin Whitburn, a lecturer in History Education at University College London, examining Britain’s imperial past through the lens of memorials within Westminster Abbey. They discuss three case-studies across the period: the late 18th century and the East India Company; the mid-19th century and the stories of the 1857 Indian Rebellion and of General Gordon; the early 20th century and the imperial ambitions of Baring, Curzon, and Milner. This talk was recorded specially for Westminster Abbey.

Download the accompanying teachers’ notes document, including a full transcript, information about the speakers and the event, plus a list of follow-up questions to spark further discussion.

This video contains references to historical suicide. Viewer discretion is advised.  This lecture was recorded ahead of the “Britain’s Imperial Past and Identity, 1760-1920” online event on 19^th April 2023. Please note that all opinions are of the individual speaking and do not represent the views of Westminster Abbey.