KS3 / GCSE History: The story of World War One with Jeremy Paxman

Jeremy Paxman describes how the First World War transformed the lives of the British people, and helped shape modern Britain.

This series of video clips is suitable for teaching teaching History at KS3 and GCSE in England and Northern Ireland, National 4/5 in Scotland and Progression Step 4/5 in Wales.

Some videos contain upsetting scenes, teacher viewing recommended prior to use in class.

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Jeremy Paxman explores the declaration of war after Germany invaded Belgium in 1914.

How Britain declared war in WW1

Jeremy Paxman explains Lord Kitchener's iconic recruitment PR campaign of WW1.

Your country needs you!

Jeremy Paxman explores how Britain suffered defeat at the Battle of Mons.

Crushing defeat in the first battle of WW1

Jeremy Paxman explains how German u-boats crippled the country and led to rationing and the Home Front.

The Home Front

Jeremy Paxman looks at the mental health problems suffered by poet Siegfried Sassoon and soldiers in the First World War.

WW1 poetry and shell shock

Jeremy Paxman explains how a former royal residence became a hospital for injured soldiers in WW1.

Treating Indian soldiers at Brighton Pavilion

Jeremy Paxman explains the unprecedented bombardment of Britain in World War One.

Air raids and the bombardment of Britain in WW1

How women entered the workforce and took up dangerous roles to support the war effort.

The dangerous jobs of women in WW1

How the British workforce, the Home Front and the USA joined together to fight back against the German advance in 1918.

How the Britain turned the tide in 1918

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Where Next?

These short videos feature the personal testimony of 11 veterans and eye-witnesses of World War Two.

WW2 Stories

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