The title of this term’s British History course betrays the vast difference in lives between employers and employees in the 19 th century. James Harvey Insole built Ely Court in Llandaff 1855, a manifestation of wealth and success in Llandaff but a year later at the Cymmer Pit, owned by the Insole family, was the scene of a devastating colliery explosion with the loss of 114 lives. These deaths were avoidable and the owner and his officials were accused of neglect. Responsibility was deflected on to the mine manager by the owner however it marked a turning point with the introduction of safety improvements and perhaps accountability. Prior to this disaster there had been Factory Acts and subsequent to the aftermath of the explosion there was further legislation. Insole Court is the case study around which we will build the struggle for workers’ rights in the early part of Queen Victoria’s reign.

10 weeks £220
Starts January 12th