British Culture - User contributions [en]

Declaration of Breda

2013-05-25T15:35:47Z

Lsm:

Declaration published by Charles II in the Netherlands in 1660. The declaration was delivered after the breakdown of the Protectorate. The new king Charles II. living in exile until then assured certain rights in the document.

==Proceedings==
After Oliver Cromwell, Lord Protector of the Commonwealth, died, his son Richard should become his successor. Yet, he did not get much support, especially not from the army. Richard Cromwell did not have much experience in leading and government like his father. He was forced to abdicate and Parliament was dissolved. Many people wanted a firm and legal monarchy again as the restoration of the monarchy seemed to be the only way to have a new government formed.
General Monck was one of the principal characters bringing Charles II back to England. There were hidden contacts between Charles II and General Monck and delegations were send to the Netherlands were Charles II stayed. Meanwhile a new elected Parliament, the Convention Parliament was formed and delivered a request do Charles to return to England and become king again. In April, Charles gave the Declaration of Breda and following that the Convention Parliament decided on the king’s restoration. On his 30th birthday, on 27 May 1660, Charles II came to Dover by ship and went on to London. The republic was terminated.

==The Declaration==
The declaration contained the following aspects:
First of all, Charles labelled himself as the rightful heir to the throne (“Nor do we desire more to enjoy what is ours” (Kenyon 357)). He also wants justice for his people (“administration of justice throughout the land” (Kenyon 357)). Charles granted amnesty for the deeds of the last twenty years (“no crime whatsoever committed against us or our royal father before the publication of this shall ever rise in judgment or be brought in question against any of them” (Kenyon 358)). Moreover, he calls for unity in the country and promises to keep it safe (“we desiring and ordaining that henceforward all notes of discord, separation and difference of parties be utterly abolished among all our subjects, whom we invite and conjure to a perfect union among themselves, under our protection” (Kenyon 358)). Freedom of religion was another aspect in the declaration (“we do declare a liberty to tender consciences, and that no man shall be disquieted or called in question for differences of opinion in matter of religion which do not disturb the peace of the kingdom” (Kenyon 358)). There were also problems concerning the distribution of confiscated crown and church lands. Charles II promised to find a solution in Parliament. Moreover, indemnity, full payment of the arrears to the army and a new Parliament were assured.
Yet, the implementation of the declaration’s promises was not easy. On the one hand, Charles II issued the Act of Indemnity and Oblivion in order to pardon the deeds of the Commonwealth. On the other hand, those who subscribed his father’s death warrant were punished and it was difficult to find an answer to the dispute on land. Furthermore, the assurance of religious toleration could not be realised as “no such legislation was ever presented” (Kenyon 363).

==Sources==
“Declaration of Breda”. Encyclopedia Britannica. 2013. Encyclopedia Britannica Online. 22 May 2013. <http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/78664/Declaration-of-Breda>.

Hutton, Ronald.''The British Republic. 1649-1660.'' London: Macmillan, 1990.

Kenyon, J.P.. ''The Stuart Constitution. 1603-1688. Documents and Commentary.'' Cambridge: Cambridge UP, 1966.

Maurer, Michael. ''Kleine Geschichte Englands.'' Stuttgart: Reclam, 2007.

Declaration of Breda

2013-05-25T15:35:09Z

Lsm:

Declaration published by Charles II in the Netherlands in 1660. The declaration was delivered after the breakdown of the Protectorate. The new king Charles II. living in exile until then assured certain rights in the document.

==Proceedings==
After Oliver Cromwell, Lord Protector of the Commonwealth, died, his son Richard should become his successor. Yet, he did not get much support, especially not from the army. Richard Cromwell did not have much experience in leading and government like his father. He was forced to abdicate and Parliament was dissolved. Many people wanted a firm and legal monarchy again as the restoration of the monarchy seemed to be the only way to have a new government formed.
General Monck was one of the principal characters bringing Charles II back to England. There were hidden contacts between Charles II and General Monck and delegations were send to the Netherlands were Charles II stayed. Meanwhile a new elected Parliament, the Convention Parliament was formed and delivered a request do Charles to return to England and become king again. In April, Charles gave the Declaration of Breda and following that the Convention Parliament decided on the king’s restoration. On his 30th birthday, on 27 May 1660, Charles II came to Dover by ship and went on to London. The republic was terminated.

==The Declaration==
The declaration contained the following aspects:
First of all, Charles labelled himself as the rightful heir to the throne (“Nor do we desire more to enjoy what is ours” (Kenyon 357)). He also wants justice for his people (“administration of justice throughout the land” (Kenyon 357)). Charles granted amnesty for the deeds of the last twenty years (“no crime whatsoever committed against us or our royal father before the publication of this shall ever rise in judgment or be brought in question against any of them” (Kenyon 358)). Moreover, he calls for unity in the country and promises to keep it safe (“we desiring and ordaining that henceforward all notes of discord, separation and difference of parties be utterly abolished among all our subjects, whom we invite and conjure to a perfect union among themselves, under our protection” (Kenyon 358)). Freedom of religion was another aspect in the declaration (“we do declare a liberty to tender consciences, and that no man shall be disquieted or called in question for differences of opinion in matter of religion which do not disturb the peace of the kingdom” (Kenyon 358)). There were also problems concerning the distribution of confiscated crown and church lands. Charles II promised to find a solution in Parliament. Moreover, indemnity, full payment of the arrears to the army and a new Parliament were assured.
Yet, the implementation of the declaration’s promises was not easy. On the one hand, Charles II issued the Act of Indemnity and Oblivion in order to pardon the deeds of the Commonwealth. On the other hand, those who subscribed his father’s death warrant were punished and it was difficult to find an answer to the dispute on land. Furthermore, the assurance of religious toleration could not be realised as “no such legislation was ever presented” (Kenyon 363).

==Sources==
“Declaration of Breda”. Encyclopedia Britannica. 2013. Encyclopedia Britannica Online. 22 May 2013. <http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/78664/Declaration-of-Breda>.

Hutton, Ronald.'' The British Republic. 1649-1660.'' London: Macmillan, 1990.

Kenyon, J.P.. ''The Stuart Constitution. 1603-1688. Documents and Commentary.'' Cambridge: Cambridge UP, 1966.

Maurer, Michael. ''Kleine Geschichte Englands.'' Stuttgart: Reclam, 2007.

Declaration of Breda

2013-05-25T15:34:38Z

Lsm:

Declaration published by Charles II in the Netherlands in 1660. The declaration was delivered after the breakdown of the Protectorate. The new king Charles II. living in exile until then assured certain rights in the document.

==Proceedings==
After Oliver Cromwell, Lord Protector of the Commonwealth, died, his son Richard should become his successor. Yet, he did not get much support, especially not from the army. Richard Cromwell did not have much experience in leading and government like his father. He was forced to abdicate and Parliament was dissolved. Many people wanted a firm and legal monarchy again as the restoration of the monarchy seemed to be the only way to have a new government formed.
General Monck was one of the principal characters bringing Charles II back to England. There were hidden contacts between Charles II and General Monck and delegations were send to the Netherlands were Charles II stayed. Meanwhile a new elected Parliament, the Convention Parliament was formed and delivered a request do Charles to return to England and become king again. In April, Charles gave the Declaration of Breda and following that the Convention Parliament decided on the king’s restoration. On his 30th birthday, on 27 May 1660, Charles II came to Dover by ship and went on to London. The republic was terminated.

==The Declaration==
The declaration contained the following aspects:
First of all, Charles labelled himself as the rightful heir to the throne (“Nor do we desire more to enjoy what is ours” (Kenyon 357)). He also wants justice for his people (“administration of justice throughout the land” (Kenyon 357)). Charles granted amnesty for the deeds of the last twenty years (“no crime whatsoever committed against us or our royal father before the publication of this shall ever rise in judgment or be brought in question against any of them” (Kenyon 358)). Moreover, he calls for unity in the country and promises to keep it safe (“we desiring and ordaining that henceforward all notes of discord, separation and difference of parties be utterly abolished among all our subjects, whom we invite and conjure to a perfect union among themselves, under our protection” (Kenyon 358)). Freedom of religion was another aspect in the declaration (“we do declare a liberty to tender consciences, and that no man shall be disquieted or called in question for differences of opinion in matter of religion which do not disturb the peace of the kingdom” (Kenyon 358)). There were also problems concerning the distribution of confiscated crown and church lands. Charles II promised to find a solution in Parliament. Moreover, indemnity, full payment of the arrears to the army and a new Parliament were assured.
Yet, the implementation of the declaration’s promises was not easy. On the one hand, Charles II issued the Act of Indemnity and Oblivion in order to pardon the deeds of the Commonwealth. On the other hand, those who subscribed his father’s death warrant were punished and it was difficult to find an answer to the dispute on land. Furthermore, the assurance of religious toleration could not be realised as “no such legislation was ever presented” (Kenyon 363).

“Declaration of Breda”. Encyclopedia Britannica. 2013. Encyclopedia Britannica Online. 22 May 2013. <http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/78664/Declaration-of-Breda>.

Hutton, Ronald.'' The British Republic. 1649-1660.'' London: Macmillan, 1990.

Kenyon, J.P.. ''The Stuart Constitution. 1603-1688. Documents and Commentary.'' Cambridge: Cambridge UP, 1966.

Maurer, Michael. ''Kleine Geschichte Englands.'' Stuttgart: Reclam, 2007.

Declaration of Breda

2013-05-18T13:09:23Z

Lsm: Created page with 'Declaration given by Charles II. in Breda in the Netherlands in 1660. (Article will be extended.)'

Declaration given by Charles II. in Breda in the Netherlands in 1660.

(Article will be extended.)

James Bond

2012-06-13T06:32:34Z

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British spy. Invented by Ian Fleming.

==Novels==
James Bond, also known by 007, is a fictional agent of the British Secret Service MI6. He was invented by Ian Fleming in 1952. Fleming who probably gained personal experience in espionage during the Second World War, wrote 13 novels and three collections of short stories in the 1950s and 1960s which dealt with James Bond as protagonist. The first novel ''Casino Royale'' was successfully published in 1953. The novels became also more popular when they were published as paperback in 1955 resulting in increased sales. Moreover, the novel ''From Russia with Love'' was published as a series in the ''Daily Express'' in 1957.

Initially, Fleming started to write the Bond novels for his own pleasure and did not expect such a huge success. Nevertheless, the novels were written in a different style than other novels from this period. James Bond's adventures were not only about luxurious lifestyle with fast cars and gambling, but these books were the first crime novels in the 1950s that dealt with sexual adventures between the protagonist and the women he meets on his way. This corresponds to the gradual deviation from former views on sexuality in this period as new attitudes found their way into society. Consequently, the Bond novels reflect the social conditions in the 1950s and 1960s. In addition, the situation of the Cold War is displayed since the villain is often from the Soviet Union in the first novels.

==Movies==
At the beginning of the 1960s, Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman received the rights to produce the first James Bond film in 1962: ''Dr No''. In the following years, all other novels served as a model for Bond movies. Nowadays, titles not related to Fleming's novels are used. Today, the production of the films is very expensive because the films are staged around the world and the action sequences have become very popular. The James Bond series has turned into the most successful movie series of all time. Until now, 6 actors impersonated the figure of James Bond: Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig, who will be part of the next James Bond movie ''Skyfall'' again in November 2012.

==Cultural Phenomenon==
Since its first release, the James Bond series has become a cultural phenomenon around the world. The movies are modernised according to changing social attitudes and political events. Moreover, Bond functions as “popular hero, an icon of adventure, a guru of male style, an emblem of glamour, a champion of consumerism, the last word in gadgetry and [...] a loaded symbol of sex and violence” (Lindner 1). The series' cultural significance can also be seen in the media, e.g. in advertisement. However, there was and still is criticism about the Bond series concerning snobbery, racism, violence and sexism.

==Sources==
Chapman, James. ''Licence to Thrill. A Cultural History of the James Bond Films''. 2nd ed. London: Tauris, 2007.

Denning, Michael. “Licensed to Look: James Bond and the Heroism of Consumption”. ''Contemporary Marxist Literary Criticism''. Francis Mulhern (ed.). 2nd ed. London: Longman, 1993. 211-229.

Lindner, Christoph (ed.). ''The James Bond Phenomenon. A Critical Reader''. 2nd ed. Manchester: Manchester UP, 2009.

http://www.skyfall-movie.com/releasedates/ 25 April 2012.

James Bond

2012-04-25T15:09:35Z

Lsm:

British spy. Invented by Ian Fleming.

==Novels==
James Bond, also known by 007, is a fictional agent of the British Secret Service MI6. He was invented by Ian Fleming in 1952. Fleming who probably gained personal experience in espionage during the Second World War, wrote 13 novels and three collections of short stories in the 1950s and 1960s which dealt with James Bond as protagonist. The first novel ''Casino Royale'' was successfully published in 1953. The novels became also more popular when they were published as paperback in 1955 resulting in increased sales. Moreover, the novel ''From Russia with Love'' was published as a series in the ''Daily Express'' in 1957.

Initially, Fleming started to write the Bond novels for his own pleasure and did not expect such a huge success. Nevertheless, the novels were written in a different style than other novels from this period. James Bond's adventures were not only about luxurious lifestyle with fast cars and gambling, but these books were the first crime novels in the 1950s that dealt with sexual adventures between the protagonist and the women he meets on his way. This corresponds to the gradual deviation from former views on sexuality in this period as new attitudes found their way into society. Consequently, the Bond novels reflect the social conditions in the 1950s and 1960s. In addition, the situation of the Cold War is displayed since the villain is often from the Soviet Union in the first novels.

==Movies==
At the beginning of the 1960s, Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman received the rights to produce the first James Bond film in 1962: ''Dr No''. In the following years, all other novels served as a model for Bond movies and now titles not related to Fleming's novels are used. Today, the production of the films is very expensive because the films are staged around the world and the action sequences have become very popular. The James Bond series has turned into the most successful movie series of all time. Until now, 6 actors impersonated the figure of James Bond: Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig, who will be part of the next James Bond movie ''Skyfall'' again in November 2012.

==Cultural Phenomenon==
Since its first release, the James Bond series has become a cultural phenomenon around the world. The movies are modernized according to changing social attitudes and political events. Moreover, Bond functions as “popular hero, an icon of adventure, a guru of male style, an emblem of glamour, a champion of consumerism, the last word in gadgetry and [...] a loaded symbol of sex and violence” (Lindner 1). The series' cultural significance can also be seen in the media, e.g. in advertisement. However, there was and still is criticism about the Bond series concerning snobbery, racism, violence and sexism.

==Sources==
Chapman, James. ''Licence to Thrill. A Cultural History of the James Bond Films''. 2nd ed. London: Tauris, 2007.

Denning, Michael. “Licensed to Look: James Bond and the Heroism of Consumption”. ''Contemporary Marxist Literary Criticism''. Francis Mulhern (ed.). 2nd ed. London: Longman, 1993.

Lindner, Christoph (ed.). ''The James Bond Phenomenon. A Critical Reader''. 2nd ed. Manchester: Manchester UP, 2009.

http://www.skyfall-movie.com/releasedates/ 25 April 2012.

James Bond

2012-04-11T07:48:23Z

Lsm: Created page with 'British spy. Invented by Ian Fleming.'

British spy. Invented by Ian Fleming.

Edgar Wallace

2012-01-15T23:19:25Z

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Famous writer of thrillers and crime fiction. He was born 1st April 1875 in Greenwich and died 10th February 1932 in Hollywood.

==Life and Career==
Richard Horatio Edgar Wallace was born to the unmarried actress Polly Richards. After a few days, he was adopted by George and Clara Freeman living in Billingsgate. George Freeman was a fishmonger. Edgar Wallace was brought up under the name Dick Freeman. The Freemans lived in poor living conditions and Wallace only had minor school education. However, he was excited by the theatre and by plays at an early age. He spent the money he earned, which was not much, for theatre tickets.

Later, Wallace became a soldier for some years and also had a medical education. As a soldier, he already started to write some lines which were sometimes printed in papers or magazines. During the Boer War in South Africa, Wallace became a correspondent for the Daily Mail. He also got to know his first wife Ivy Caldecott in South Africa. They married in 1898. His experiences in South Africa later inspired him for writing ''Sanders of the River'' (1911), a novel set in Africa. Wallace returned to London in 1900 and worked again as a correspondent and also as a reporter. Besides, he wrote his first thriller ''The Four Just Men'' (1905). The novel was successful, however, he had financial problems because he founded his own press to publish it. Wallace was also active as playwright, but not as successful as he was as a writer. Moreover, he was editor of different papers for some time.

Wallace’s wife divorced from him in 1918. In 1921, he married his second wife, Violet King, who had worked for him as secretary since 1915. His famous crime novels were turned into sound films beginning in 1931 with ''The Squeaker''. Shortly before his death, Wallace went to Hollywood in order to write screenplays. He was involved in writing the screenplay for the film ''King Kong'' (1933). He died in 1932 due to pneumonia and diabetes which was not treated. Due to his spendthrift way of life and the fact that he bet on horses, Wallace was highly indebted when he died.

==Reception==
Wallace is one of the most well-known British authors of crime fiction. Moreover, he developed the genre of the thriller as his novels are characterized by highly electrifying storylines. 175 novels are translated into 44 languages. He also wrote 15 plays and many articles and reviews. Since the late 1950s, many novels by Wallace were turned into movies in Germany. The series was very successful as famous actors like Klaus Kinski, Joachim Fuchsberger and Gert Fröbe were part of it.

==Sources==
Lane, Margaret. ''Edgar Wallace. Das Leben eines Phänomen''. Hamburg: Krüger, 1966.

http://www.edgarwallace.org/, accessed 15 January 2012.

http://www.edgarwallaceweb.de/wallace/index.php/home.html, accessed 15 January 2012.

http://www.whoswho.de/templ/te_bio.php?PID=514&RID=1, accessed 15 January 2012.

"Edgar Wallace." ''Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica Online.'' Encyclopædia Britannica Inc., 2012. Web. 15 Jan. 2012. <http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/634759/Edgar-Wallace>.

Edgar Wallace

2012-01-15T23:15:39Z

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Edgar Wallace

2012-01-15T23:11:11Z

Lsm:

Edgar Wallace

2012-01-08T12:22:35Z

Lsm: Created page with 'Famous writer of crime fiction.'

Famous writer of crime fiction.

British Broadcasting Corporation

2011-11-28T20:35:16Z

Lsm:

The British Broadcasting Corporation is the biggest broadcasting company in the world. It is situated in London and was founded in 1927. Until today, the BBC has played an essential part for the British population and still has an impact on cultural life in Britain. The public service broadcaster is financed by licence fees which households have to pay. A Royal Charter gives it permission for transmitting.

==History==
In 1896, Guglielmo Marconi invented the wireless transmission. Over the years, radio transmission became more and more popular and thus the Marconi Company was allowed to transmit speech and concert programmes in 1922. In October 1922, the Marconi Company, the General Electric Company and other organisations founded the British Broadcasting Company and its first Director-General was John Reith. The Post Office gave the first broadcasting licence to the company on 18 January 1923. It was determined that the licence fees sold to households should fund the company and advertising should not be used. Moreover, in 1925, the Crawford Committee established by the government of that time decided that the company should not be supervised or lead by the state since objectivity should be kept. Royal Charters authorised the company by then. The first one was passed for ten years on 1 January 1927 when the British Broadcasting Company was changed into the British Broadcasting Corporation.
During the 30s, the status of the BBC increased since more licences were given to households. On 2 November 1936, the BBC broadcasted its first television programme. Its importance during the Second World War can be recognised by the fact that the transmitted programmes were listened to at home and by British soldiers in the world.
In 1954, the Television Act of 1954 was passed. It was the foundation for another system of television unlike the BBC which financed itself by advertisement. This new system was called Independent Television (ITV). Until 1955, the BBC was a strong monopoly, but now competition increased due to the Television Act and technological aspects which facilitated setting up television. The BBC had to modify its programmes since people could also choose other programmes covering their interests more. Despite the competition, the BBC was able to stay popular in the 60s and 70s because it also set up new programmes. Today, the BBC still has to compete with other television companies for the audience. The last Royal Charter was passed on 1 January 2007 and lasts until 2016. The current Director-General of the BBC is Mark Thompson.

==Function==
The BBC was founded on the principle to provide information, education and entertainment. The Corporation wants to offer credible and independent information and add cultural value to the British society. The broadcaster wants to be transparent, for example by releasing annual reports and blogs by their employees. The BBC wants to serve the demand of the viewers and listeners. That is why the BBC tries to represent the British society in all its multicultural varieties.

==Politics==
Although the BBC wants to stay independent, political parties have always tried to influence the corporation. The leading party could manipulate the BBC by adjusting the licence fees, by choosing the associates of the BBC Trust, the governing body of the BBC, and by setting the date for the renewal of the Royal Charter. There have been many occasions on which the government wanted to influence the BBC for their personal benefit. But often the BBC was also suspected to have positive tendencies towards specific parties, mostly by the governing parties. During the 80s, the BBC had to deal with Margaret Thatcher’s political views as well. She saw the BBC as “overstaffed, subject to no market discipline, the recipient of a flat-rate tax, generally wasteful and unresponsive to the public”. (Spangenberg 1)

==Sources==
Spangenberg, Jochen. ''The BBC in Transition. Reasons, Results and Consequences.'' Wiesbaden: Dt. Univ.-Verl., 1997.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/aboutthebbc/ 28 November 2011

British Broadcasting Corporation

2011-11-28T20:34:30Z

Lsm:

The British Broadcasting Corporation is the biggest broadcasting company in the world. It is situated in London and was founded in 1927. Until today, the BBC has played an essential part for the British population and still has an impact on cultural life in Britain. The public service broadcaster is financed by licence fees which households have to pay. A Royal Charter gives it permission for transmitting.

==History==
In 1896, Guglielmo Marconi invented the wireless transmission. Over the years, radio transmission became more and more popular and thus the Marconi Company was allowed to transmit speech and concert programmes in 1922. In October 1922, the Marconi Company, the General Electric Company and other organisations founded the British Broadcasting Company and its first Director-General was John Reith. The Post Office gave the first broadcasting licence to the company on 18 January 1923. It was determined that the licence fees sold to households should fund the company and advertising should not be used. Moreover, in 1925, the Crawford Committee established by the government of that time decided that the company should not be supervised or lead by the state since objectivity should be kept. Royal Charters authorised the company by then. The first one was passed for ten years on 1 January 1927 when the British Broadcasting Company was changed into the British Broadcasting Corporation.
During the 30s, the status of the BBC increased since more licences were given to households. On 2 November 1936, the BBC broadcasted its first television programme. Its importance during the Second World War can be recognised by the fact that the transmitted programmes were listened to at home and by British soldiers in the world.
In 1954, the Television Act of 1954 was passed. It was the foundation for another system of television unlike the BBC which financed itself by advertisement. This new system was called Independent Television (ITV). Until 1955, the BBC was a strong monopoly, but now competition increased due to the Television Act and technological aspects which facilitated setting up television. The BBC had to modify its programmes since people could also choose other programmes covering their interests more. Despite the competition, the BBC was able to stay popular in the 60s and 70s because it also set up new programmes. Today, the BBC still has to compete with other television companies for the audience. The last Royal Charter was passed on 1 January 2007 and lasts until 2016. The current Director-General of the BBC is Mark Thompson.

==Function==
The BBC was founded on the principle to provide information, education and entertainment. The Corporation wants to offer credible and independent information and add cultural value to the British society. The broadcaster wants to be transparent, for example by releasing annual reports and blogs by their employees. The BBC wants to serve the demand of the viewers and listeners. That is why the BBC tries to represent the British society in all its multicultural varieties.

==Politics==
Although the BBC wants to stay independent, political parties have always tried to influence the corporation. The leading party could manipulate the BBC by adjusting the licence fees, by choosing the associates of the BBC Trust, the governing body of the BBC, and by setting the date for the renewal of the Royal Charter. There have been many occasions on which the government wanted to influence the BBC for their personal benefit. But often the BBC was also suspected to have positive tendencies towards specific parties, mostly by the governing parties. During the 80s, the BBC had to deal with Margaret Thatcher’s political views as well. She saw the BBC as “overstaffed, subject to no market discipline, the recipient of a flat-rate tax, generally wasteful and unresponsive to the public”. (Spangenberg 1)

==Sources==
Spangenberg, Jochen. "The BBC in Transition. Reasons, Results and Consequences." Wiesbaden: Dt. Univ.-Verl., 1997.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/aboutthebbc/ 28 November 2011

British Broadcasting Corporation

2011-11-28T20:34:01Z

Lsm:

The British Broadcasting Corporation is the biggest broadcasting company in the world. It is situated in London and was founded in 1927. Until today, the BBC has played an essential part for the British population and still has an impact on cultural life in Britain. The public service broadcaster is financed by licence fees which households have to pay. A Royal Charter gives it permission for transmitting.

==History==
In 1896, Guglielmo Marconi invented the wireless transmission. Over the years, radio transmission became more and more popular and thus the Marconi Company was allowed to transmit speech and concert programmes in 1922. In October 1922, the Marconi Company, the General Electric Company and other organisations founded the British Broadcasting Company and its first Director-General was John Reith. The Post Office gave the first broadcasting licence to the company on 18 January 1923. It was determined that the licence fees sold to households should fund the company and advertising should not be used. Moreover, in 1925, the Crawford Committee established by the government of that time decided that the company should not be supervised or lead by the state since objectivity should be kept. Royal Charters authorised the company by then. The first one was passed for ten years on 1 January 1927 when the British Broadcasting Company was changed into the British Broadcasting Corporation.
During the 30s, the status of the BBC increased since more licences were given to households. On 2 November 1936, the BBC broadcasted its first television programme. Its importance during the Second World War can be recognised by the fact that the transmitted programmes were listened to at home and by British soldiers in the world.
In 1954, the Television Act of 1954 was passed. It was the foundation for another system of television unlike the BBC which financed itself by advertisement. This new system was called Independent Television (ITV). Until 1955, the BBC was a strong monopoly, but now competition increased due to the Television Act and technological aspects which facilitated setting up television. The BBC had to modify its programmes since people could also choose other programmes covering their interests more. Despite the competition, the BBC was able to stay popular in the 60s and 70s because it also set up new programmes. Today, the BBC still has to compete with other television companies for the audience. The last Royal Charter was passed on 1 January 2007 and lasts until 2016. The current Director-General of the BBC is Mark Thompson.

==Function==
The BBC was founded on the principle to provide information, education and entertainment. The Corporation wants to offer credible and independent information and add cultural value to the British society. The broadcaster wants to be transparent, for example by releasing annual reports and blogs by their employees. The BBC wants to serve the demand of the viewers and listeners. That is why the BBC tries to represent the British society in all its multicultural varieties.

==Politics==
Although the BBC wants to stay independent, political parties have always tried to influence the corporation. The leading party could manipulate the BBC by adjusting the licence fees, by choosing the associates of the BBC Trust, the governing body of the BBC, and by setting the date for the renewal of the Royal Charter. There have been many occasions on which the government wanted to influence the BBC for their personal benefit. But often the BBC was also suspected to have positive tendencies towards specific parties, mostly by the governing parties. During the 80s, the BBC had to deal with Margaret Thatcher’s political views as well. She saw the BBC as “overstaffed, subject to no market discipline, the recipient of a flat-rate tax, generally wasteful and unresponsive to the public”. (Spangenberg 1)

==Sources==
Spangenberg, Jochen. The BBC in Transition. Reasons, Results and Consequences. Wiesbaden: Dt. Univ.-Verl., 1997.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/aboutthebbc/ 28 November 2011

British Broadcasting Corporation

2011-11-28T20:32:04Z

Lsm:

The British Broadcasting Corporation is the biggest broadcasting company in the world. It is situated in London and was founded in 1927. Until today, the BBC has played an essential part for the British population and still has an impact on cultural life in Britain. The public service broadcaster is financed by licence fees which households have to pay. A Royal Charter gives it permission for transmitting.

==History==
In 1896, Guglielmo Marconi invented the wireless transmission. Over the years, radio transmission became more and more popular and thus the Marconi Company was allowed to transmit speech and concert programmes in 1922. In October 1922, the Marconi Company, the General Electric Company and other organisations founded the British Broadcasting Company and its first Director-General was John Reith. The Post Office gave the first broadcasting licence to the company on 18 January 1923. It was determined that the licence fees sold to households should fund the company and advertising should not be used. Moreover, in 1925, the Crawford Committee established by the government of that time decided that the company should not be supervised or lead by the state since objectivity should be kept. Royal Charters authorised the company by then. The first one was passed for ten years on 1 January 1927 when the British Broadcasting Company was changed into the British Broadcasting Corporation.
During the 30s, the status of the BBC increased since more licences were given to households. On 2 November 1936, the BBC broadcasted its first television programme. Its importance during the Second World War can be recognised by the fact that the transmitted programmes were listened to at home and by British soldiers in the world.
In 1954, the Television Act of 1954 was passed. It was the foundation for another system of television unlike the BBC which financed itself by advertisement. This new system was called Independent Television (ITV). Until 1955, the BBC was a strong monopoly, but now competition increased due to the Television Act and technological aspects which facilitated setting up television. The BBC had to modify its programmes since people could also choose other programmes covering their interests more. Despite the competition, the BBC was able to stay popular in the 60s and 70s because it also set up new programmes. Today, the BBC still has to compete with other television companies for the audience. The last Royal Charter was passed on 1 January 2007 and lasts until 2016. The current Director-General of the BBC is Mark Thompson.

==Function==
The BBC was founded on the principle to provide information, education and entertainment. The Corporation wants to offer credible and independent information and add cultural value to the British society. The broadcaster wants to be transparent, for example by releasing annual reports and blogs by their employees. The BBC wants to serve the demand of the viewers and listeners. That is why the BBC tries to represent the British society in all its multicultural varieties.

==Politics==
Although the BBC wants to stay independent, political parties have always tried to influence the corporation. The leading party could manipulate the BBC by adjusting the licence fees, by choosing the associates of the BBC Trust, the governing body of the BBC, and by setting the date for the renewal of the Royal Charter. There have been many occasions on which the government wanted to influence the BBC for their personal benefit. But often the BBC was also suspected to have positive tendencies towards specific parties, mostly by the governing parties. During the 80s, the BBC had to deal with Margaret Thatcher’s political views as well. She saw the BBC as “overstaffed, subject to no market discipline, the recipient of a flat-rate tax, generally wasteful and unresponsive to the public”. (Spangenberg 1)

==Sources==
Spangenberg, Jochen. The BBC in Transition. Reasons, Results and Consequences. Wiesbaden: Deutscher Universitäts-Verlag/Dt. Univ.-Verl., 1997.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/aboutthebbc/ 28 November 2011

British Broadcasting Corporation

2011-11-28T20:31:16Z

Lsm:

The British Broadcasting Corporation is the biggest broadcasting company in the world. It is situated in London and was founded in 1927. Until today, the BBC has played an essential part for the British population and still has an impact on cultural life in Britain. The public service broadcaster is financed by licence fees which households have to pay. A Royal Charter gives it permission for ==transmitting.

==History==
In 1896, Guglielmo Marconi invented the wireless transmission. Over the years, radio transmission became more and more popular and thus the Marconi Company was allowed to transmit speech and concert programmes in 1922. In October 1922, the Marconi Company, the General Electric Company and other organisations founded the British Broadcasting Company and its first Director-General was John Reith. The Post Office gave the first broadcasting licence to the company on 18 January 1923. It was determined that the licence fees sold to households should fund the company and advertising should not be used. Moreover, in 1925, the Crawford Committee established by the government of that time decided that the company should not be supervised or lead by the state since objectivity should be kept. Royal Charters authorised the company by then. The first one was passed for ten years on 1 January 1927 when the British Broadcasting Company was changed into the British Broadcasting Corporation.
During the 30s, the status of the BBC increased since more licences were given to households. On 2 November 1936, the BBC broadcasted its first television programme. Its importance during the Second World War can be recognised by the fact that the transmitted programmes were listened to at home and by British soldiers in the world.
In 1954, the Television Act of 1954 was passed. It was the foundation for another system of television unlike the BBC which financed itself by advertisement. This new system was called Independent Television (ITV). Until 1955, the BBC was a strong monopoly, but now competition increased due to the Television Act and technological aspects which facilitated setting up television. The BBC had to modify its programmes since people could also choose other programmes covering their interests more. Despite the competition, the BBC was able to stay popular in the 60s and 70s because it also set up new programmes. Today, the BBC still has to compete with other television companies for the audience. The last Royal Charter was passed on 1 January 2007 and lasts until 2016. The current Director-General of the BBC is Mark Thompson.

==Function==
The BBC was founded on the principle to provide information, education and entertainment. The Corporation wants to offer credible and independent information and add cultural value to the British society. The broadcaster wants to be transparent, for example by releasing annual reports and blogs by their employees. The BBC wants to serve the demand of the viewers and listeners. That is why the BBC tries to represent the British society in all its multicultural varieties.

==Politics==
Although the BBC wants to stay independent, political parties have always tried to influence the corporation. The leading party could manipulate the BBC by adjusting the licence fees, by choosing the associates of the BBC Trust, the governing body of the BBC, and by setting the date for the renewal of the Royal Charter. There have been many occasions on which the government wanted to influence the BBC for their personal benefit. But often the BBC was also suspected to have positive tendencies towards specific parties, mostly by the governing parties. During the 80s, the BBC had to deal with Margaret Thatcher’s political views as well. She saw the BBC as “overstaffed, subject to no market discipline, the recipient of a flat-rate tax, generally wasteful and unresponsive to the public”. (Spangenberg 1)

==Sources==
Spangenberg, Jochen. The BBC in Transition. Reasons, Results and Consequences. Wiesbaden: Deutscher Universitäts-Verlag/Dt. Univ.-Verl., 1997.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/aboutthebbc/ 28 November 2011

British Broadcasting Corporation

2011-11-28T20:30:58Z

Lsm:

The British Broadcasting Corporation is the biggest broadcasting company in the world. It is situated in London and was founded in 1927. Until today, the BBC has played an essential part for the British population and still has an impact on cultural life in Britain. The public service broadcaster is financed by licence fees which households have to pay. A Royal Charter gives it permission for ==transmitting.

==History==
In 1896, Guglielmo Marconi invented the wireless transmission. Over the years, radio transmission became more and more popular and thus the Marconi Company was allowed to transmit speech and concert programmes in 1922. In October 1922, the Marconi Company, the General Electric Company and other organisations founded the British Broadcasting Company and its first Director-General was John Reith. The Post Office gave the first broadcasting licence to the company on 18 January 1923. It was determined that the licence fees sold to households should fund the company and advertising should not be used. Moreover, in 1925, the Crawford Committee established by the government of that time decided that the company should not be supervised or lead by the state since objectivity should be kept. Royal Charters authorised the company by then. The first one was passed for ten years on 1 January 1927 when the British Broadcasting Company was changed into the British Broadcasting Corporation.
During the 30s, the status of the BBC increased since more licences were given to households. On 2 November 1936, the BBC broadcasted its first television programme. Its importance during the Second World War can be recognised by the fact that the transmitted programmes were listened to at home and by British soldiers in the world.
In 1954, the Television Act of 1954 was passed. It was the foundation for another system of television unlike the BBC which financed itself by advertisement. This new system was called Independent Television (ITV). Until 1955, the BBC was a strong monopoly, but now competition increased due to the Television Act and technological aspects which facilitated setting up television. The BBC had to modify its programmes since people could also choose other programmes covering their interests more. Despite the competition, the BBC was able to stay popular in the 60s and 70s because it also set up new programmes. Today, the BBC still has to compete with other television companies for the audience. The last Royal Charter was passed on 1 January 2007 and lasts until 2016. The current Director-General of the BBC is Mark Thompson.

==Function==
The BBC was founded on the principle to provide information, education and entertainment. The Corporation wants to offer credible and independent information and add cultural value to the British society. The broadcaster wants to be transparent, for example by releasing annual reports and blogs by their employees. The BBC wants to serve the demand of the viewers and listeners. That is why the BBC tries to represent the British society in all its multicultural varieties.

==Politics==
Although the BBC wants to stay independent, political parties have always tried to influence the corporation. The leading party could manipulate the BBC by adjusting the licence fees, by choosing the associates of the BBC Trust, the governing body of the BBC, and by setting the date for the renewal of the Royal Charter. There have been many occasions on which the government wanted to influence the BBC for their personal benefit. But often the BBC was also suspected to have positive tendencies towards specific parties, mostly by the governing parties. During the 80s, the BBC had to deal with Margaret Thatcher’s political views as well. She saw the BBC as “overstaffed, subject to no market discipline, the recipient of a flat-rate tax, generally wasteful and unresponsive to the public”. (Spangenberg 1)

==Sources==
Spangenberg, Jochen. The BBC in Transition. Reasons, Results and Consequences. Wiesbaden: Deutscher Universitäts-Verlag/Dt. Univ.-Verl., 1997.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/aboutthebbc/ 28 November 2011

British Broadcasting Corporation

2011-11-28T20:30:43Z

Lsm:

The British Broadcasting Corporation is the biggest broadcasting company in the world. It is situated in London and was founded in 1927. Until today, the BBC has played an essential part for the British population and still has an impact on cultural life in Britain. The public service broadcaster is financed by licence fees which households have to pay. A Royal Charter gives it permission for ==transmitting.

==History==
In 1896, Guglielmo Marconi invented the wireless transmission. Over the years, radio transmission became more and more popular and thus the Marconi Company was allowed to transmit speech and concert programmes in 1922. In October 1922, the Marconi Company, the General Electric Company and other organisations founded the British Broadcasting Company and its first Director-General was John Reith. The Post Office gave the first broadcasting licence to the company on 18 January 1923. It was determined that the licence fees sold to households should fund the company and advertising should not be used. Moreover, in 1925, the Crawford Committee established by the government of that time decided that the company should not be supervised or lead by the state since objectivity should be kept. Royal Charters authorised the company by then. The first one was passed for ten years on 1 January 1927 when the British Broadcasting Company was changed into the British Broadcasting Corporation.
During the 30s, the status of the BBC increased since more licences were given to households. On 2 November 1936, the BBC broadcasted its first television programme. Its importance during the Second World War can be recognised by the fact that the transmitted programmes were listened to at home and by British soldiers in the world.
In 1954, the Television Act of 1954 was passed. It was the foundation for another system of television unlike the BBC which financed itself by advertisement. This new system was called Independent Television (ITV). Until 1955, the BBC was a strong monopoly, but now competition increased due to the Television Act and technological aspects which facilitated setting up television. The BBC had to modify its programmes since people could also choose other programmes covering their interests more. Despite the competition, the BBC was able to stay popular in the 60s and 70s because it also set up new programmes. Today, the BBC still has to compete with other television companies for the audience. The last Royal Charter was passed on 1 January 2007 and lasts until 2016. The current Director-General of the BBC is Mark Thompson.

==Function==
The BBC was founded on the principle to provide information, education and entertainment. The Corporation wants to offer credible and independent information and add cultural value to the British society. The broadcaster wants to be transparent, for example by releasing annual reports and blogs by their employees. The BBC wants to serve the demand of the viewers and listeners. That is why the BBC tries to represent the British society in all its multicultural varieties.

==Politics==
Although the BBC wants to stay independent, political parties have always tried to influence the corporation. The leading party could manipulate the BBC by adjusting the licence fees, by choosing the associates of the BBC Trust, the governing body of the BBC, and by setting the date for the renewal of the Royal Charter. There have been many occasions on which the government wanted to influence the BBC for their personal benefit. But often the BBC was also suspected to have positive tendencies towards specific parties, mostly by the governing parties. During the 80s, the BBC had to deal with Margaret Thatcher’s political views as well. She saw the BBC as “overstaffed, subject to no market discipline, the recipient of a flat-rate tax, generally wasteful and unresponsive to the public”. (Spangenberg 1)

==Sources==
Spangenberg, Jochen. The BBC in Transition. Reasons, Results and Consequences. Wiesbaden: Deutscher Universitäts-Verlag/Dt. Univ.-Verl., 1997.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/aboutthebbc/ 28 November 2011

British Broadcasting Corporation

2011-11-16T13:12:36Z

Lsm: Created page with 'The British Broadcasting Corporation is a British broadcasting company situated in London.'

The British Broadcasting Corporation is a British broadcasting company situated in London.

Alternative Vote

2011-07-05T10:55:35Z

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Alternative Vote is an electoral system. On Thursday, 5th May 2011 there was a referendum in the United Kingdom if Alternative Vote should be used instead of the present system, first-past-the-post.

==How Alternative Vote Works==
The Alternative Vote system was proposed to be used to elect Members of Parliament to the House of Commons. With the present voting system, the first-past-the-post system, you have one vote for the candidate of your choice. The choices of all citizens are then put together and the candidate who gets most votes is the winner of the election. The Alternative Vote system works differently:

Voters can sort the candidates on the ballot paper by numbers. This means that they can put a 1, 2, 3 and so on next to the candidate’s name on the ballot paper. 1 refers to the candidate which you prefer most, 2 refers to the candidate you like in second place and so on. The voters do not need to give a number to every candidate. Then, all first choices are put together for every single candidate and if the first choices of one candidate make up more than half the first choices for all candidates, then he or she is the winner of the election. If this is not the case, the candidate with the lowest number of first choices is eliminated and his or her first choice ballot papers are used again. Now the second choice on the ballot paper of the eliminated candidate is distributed among the remaining candidates and added to their votes. In case that the votes for one candidate account for more than half the votes for all candidates, this candidate is the winner of the election. If this is not the case, the candidate who received the lowest number of votes is eliminated and the candidate’s ballot papers are used again and sorted by the third choice for the remaining candidates. This procedure goes on until one candidate has more than half of the votes.

==Alternative Vote in the United Kingdom==
In 1998, during the Blair government, suggestions to change the present voting system came up firstly. While the Liberal Democrats were in favour of a change of the electoral system, the Conservatives wanted to hold on to the old system. These attitudes were kept until today. In 1998, the suggestions related to a combination of the first-past-the-post system and proportional representation. However, it lasted more than 10 years until a referendum was put through.

Under the coalition government between the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats, there were new demands by the Lib Dems to change the voting system. Prime Minister David Cameron made clear that he was not for a change of the electoral system and that it would not be an advance. After debates, the referendum was set for 5th May 2011.

==Campaign for and against Alternative Vote==
The issue aroused much attention in the UK and campaigns for and against Alternative Vote were set up. Famous people like Colin Firth, Billy Bragg and John Cleese participated in such campaigns as well.

The supporters of the Campaign for Fairer Votes, initiated by the Liberal Democrats, claimed that Alternative Vote was fairer than first-past-the-post. From their point of view, the old system would not support democracy due to the fact that two-thirds of the MPs do not receive more than 50 per cent of the voters backing. They also said that the new voting system would assure that MPs would need to put more effort into their work to keep their voters’ support. The fact that the system is used in other countries, for example in Australia, was also stated by the supporters of Alternative Vote because it should show that it would be practicable.

The opponents of Alternative Vote, the members of the No to AV campaign, wanted to keep first-past-the-post due to the fact that it would ensure a strong government and that history would confirm its success. In addition, they said that the system should be kept since it would be simple and everybody would understand it whereas Alternative Vote would be difficult and not fair. The opponents made clear that the vote count would be very expensive as new electronic vote counting machines would be needed. People would need to be educated about the new system as well. It could also happen that extremist parties win seats.

==The Result of the Referendum==
The outcome of the referendum was clear. 32.1 % voted for Alternative Vote and 67.9 % voted against it. Thus, first-past-the-post was kept as the electoral system. More people than estimated participated in the referendum (19.1 million people which are 41 % of the population).

The fact that Prime Minister Cameron campaigned for first-past-the-post is seen by supporters of Alternative Vote as one of the main reasons why most people voted against Alternative Vote.

==Sources==
http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/5_may/referendum_2011.aspx, 4 July 2011

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/203930.stm, 4 July 2011

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/politics/article7144915.ece, 4 July 2011

http://www.libdems.org.uk/how_av_works.aspx, 4 July 2011

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-12892836, 4 July 2011

http://www.no2av.org/why-vote-no/, 4 July 2011

http://www.no2av.org/why-vote-no/current-system, 4 July 2011

http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2011/feb/15/firth-bonham-carter-av-yes, 4 July 2011

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-13297573, 4 July 2011

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-13318667, 4 July 2011

Alternative Vote

2011-07-04T16:30:41Z

Lsm: Created page with 'Alternative Vote is an electoral system.'

Alternative Vote is an electoral system.

Falklands War

2011-05-18T18:24:34Z

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The Falklands War was an armed conflict between the United Kingdom and Argentina in 1982 which lasted for 74 days. The Falkland Islands are British territory, but Argentina claimed sovereignty over them.

==The Falkland Islands==
The Falkland Islands, also called Malvinas, are a group of 780 islands in the South Atlantic, 400 miles distant from Argentina. Only two islands are inhabited. In 1982, the year of the war, 1,800 people lived on the islands and half of them in the capital, Port Stanley on East Falkland. The Falkland Islands are a British overseas territory, controlled by a governor and about 100 Royal Marines are based there. Sheep farming is one of the major ways to have an income.

==The Conflict==
A dispute about sovereignty has existed since Britain occupied the islands in 1833. Since then, Argentina has repeatedly demanded that authority on the Falklands should belong to their own country and negotiations between both governments have taken place again and again without a solution. In 1982, British politicians were also more concerned with the Soviet Union and the danger which was felt at that time. Prior to that, Britain also had left negotiations and did not intensify defence on the islands despite possible attack. Yet, the issue was very important for Argentina as can be seen from its constitution declaring its power over the Falklands. Besides, Argentine politicians always referred to a necessary re-establishment of power.

Consequently, the dispute became more and more complicated and there was also a lack of sympathy of the Islanders towards Argentina. The problem was how patient Argentina would be concerning the matter. Among other things, the junior minister at the Foreign Office, Nicholas Ridley, visited Argentina and the Falklands. In talks with the Argentinians, Ridley revealed that the British were not interested in the Falkland Islands. On the other hand, he explained to the Islanders that in case of an attack by Argentina the British would intervene. However, Argentina understood his statement in such a way that military actions would not be opposed as the Falklands are 8000 miles away from Britain and Argentina would have an advantageous position.

Moreover, Argentina had a military government since 1976 and the head of government at that time was General Leopoldo Galtieri, in power since 22 December 1981. In order to keep his position and stay in power, Galtieri became the driving force behind the idea to invade the Falkland Islands since he hoped for support of the population when being successful. As a result, on 2 April 1982, Argentinian invasion on the Falklands started with the result that Britain’s world status was at stake and its government had to prove itself in this situation.

Thereafter, there were fierce debates in the House of Commons until it was decided to send troops to the Falklands although the distance, the Argentinian position and other concerns depicted problems for the soldiers who should land on the western side of East Falkland. On the contrary, the British military was prepared for such conflicts and had much knowledge about the Falklands. Moreover, the USA and France supported Britain. The war ended when Britain could reconquer Port Stanley and Argentina surrendered on 14 June 1982, but the argument with Argentina about sovereignty on the Falklands continues until today.

==Margaret Thatcher and the Falklands War==
After the war, some people said that Margaret Thatcher, Prime Minister since 1979, had only been lucky to win the war. Some others criticized that the outcome of the war would have been different if the planned cuts on British defence spending would have been realized before the war. Nevertheless, given that the British navy was the second largest in the NATO it should have been no difficulty for the UK to reconquer the Falklands.

Indeed, Thatcher’s knowledge about military issues was not very detailed, but she presented herself as a strong guide with a clear image about the war’s outcome in mind. After her election in 1979, her popularity went down and the reputation of the Conservative Party deteriorated as well. The ending of the conflict presented her in a different light. On the one hand, Thatcher owes this new support to the media like ''The Sun'' which was not opposed to her and her actions and so she was presented positively. Additionally, newspapers and television were not able to show pictures of e.g. dying people due to the distance to the Falkland Islands. The shortness of the war proved advantageous, too. The Falklands War affected the Prime Minister’s image in her own party, the Conservative Party, as well: The fact that she was a woman, from the middle-class and was not appointed to an office of state before becoming Prime Minister did not matter anymore.

Margaret Thatcher stressed the fact that Britain has to prove its world position concerning the war and moreover emphasized her image of Britain’s greatness. Her attitude underlined what was still found in the population: nostalgic feelings and the desire for imperial and military power. The public was aware of Britain’s decline since World War II and so met Thatcher’s political position.
Therefore, the second election victory of Margaret Thatcher can be attributed in part to the Falklands War. Critical views on the war were less published due to the Prime Minister’s positive media representation strengthening her public image. Besides, the war showed that Britain was capable to defend itself which was important for the population in the time of the Cold War. Thatcher’s words addressed the citizens’ anxieties and uncertainties and made them feel proud about their country. Thus, she was well received and could win the election for a second time.

==Sources==
Dillon, George M. ''The Falklands, Politics and War.'' Basingstoke et al.: Macmillan, 1989.

Monaghan, David. ''The Falklands War. Myth and Countermyth.'' Basingstoke et al.: Macmillan, 1998.

Vinen, Richard. ''Thatcher’s Britain. The Politics and Social Upheaval of the Thatcher Era.'' London et al.: Simon and Schuster, 2009.

Falklands War

2011-05-18T18:18:37Z

Lsm:

The Falklands War was an armed conflict between the United Kingdom and Argentina in 1982 which lasted for 74 days. The Falkland Islands are British territory, but Argentina claimed sovereignty over them.

==The Falkland Islands==
The Falkland Islands, also called Malvinas, are a group of 780 islands in the South Atlantic, 400 miles distant from Argentina. Only two islands are inhabited. In 1982, the year of the war, 1,800 people lived on the islands and half of them in the capital, Port Stanley on East Falkland. The Falkland Islands are a British overseas territory, controlled by a governor and about 100 Royal Marines are based there. Sheep farming is one of the major ways to have an income.

==The Conflict==
A dispute about sovereignty has existed since Britain occupied the islands in 1833. Since then, Argentina has repeatedly demanded that authority on the Falklands should belong to their own country and negotiations between both governments have taken place again and again without a solution. In 1982, British politicians were also more concerned with the Soviet Union and the danger which was felt at that time. Prior to that, Britain also had left negotiations and did not intensify defence on the islands despite possible attack. Yet, the issue was very important for Argentina as can be seen from its constitution declaring its power over the Falklands. Besides, Argentine politicians always referred to a necessary re-establishment of power.

Consequently, the dispute became more and more complicated and there was also a lack of sympathy of the Islanders towards Argentina. The problem was how patient Argentina would be concerning the matter. Among other things, the junior minister at the Foreign Office, Nicholas Ridley, visited Argentina and the Falklands. In talks with the Argentinians, Ridley revealed that the British were not interested in the Falkland Islands. On the other hand, he explained to the Islanders that in case of an attack by Argentina the British would intervene. However, Argentina understood his statement in such a way that military actions would not be opposed as the Falklands are 8000 miles away from Britain and Argentina would have an advantageous position.

Moreover, Argentina had a military government since 1976 and the head of government at that time was General Leopoldo Galtieri, in power since 22 December 1981. In order to keep his position and stay in power, Galtieri became the driving force behind the idea to invade the Falkland Islands since he hoped for support of the population when being successful. As a result, on 2 April 1982, Argentinian invasion on the Falklands started with the result that Britain’s world status was at stake and its government had to prove itself in this situation.

Thereafter, there were fierce debates in the House of Commons until it was decided to send troops to the Falklands although the distance, the Argentinian position and other concerns depicted problems for the soldiers who should land on the western side of East Falkland. On the contrary, the British military was prepared for such conflicts and had much knowledge about the Falklands. Moreover, the USA and France supported Britain. The war ended when Britain could reconquer Port Stanley and Argentina surrendered on 14 June 1982, but the argument with Argentina about sovereignty on the Falklands continues until today.

==Margaret Thatcher and the Falklands War==
After the war, some people said that Margaret Thatcher, Prime Minister since 1979, had only been lucky to win the war. Some others criticized that the outcome of the war would have been different if the planned cuts on British defence spending would have been realized before the war. Nevertheless, given that the British navy was the second largest in the NATO it should have been no difficulty for the UK to reconquer the Falklands.

Indeed, Thatcher’s knowledge about military issues was not very detailed, but she presented herself as a strong guide with a clear image about the war’s outcome in mind. After her election in 1979, her popularity went down and the reputation of the Conservative Party deteriorated as well. The ending of the conflict presented her in a different light. On the one hand, Thatcher owes this new support to the media like ''The Sun'' which was not opposed to her and her actions and so she was presented positively. Additionally, newspapers and television were not able to show pictures of e.g. dying people due to the distance to the Falkland Islands. The shortness of the war proved advantageous, too. The Falklands War affected the Prime Minister’s image in her own party, the Conservative Party, as well: The fact that she was a woman, from the middle-class and was not appointed to an office of state before did not matter anymore.

Margaret Thatcher stressed the fact that Britain has to prove its world position concerning the war and moreover emphasized her image of Britain’s greatness. Her attitude underlined what was still found in the population: nostalgic feelings and the desire for imperial and military power. The public was aware of Britain’s decline since World War II and so met Thatcher’s political position.
Therefore, the second election victory of Margaret Thatcher can be attributed in part to the Falklands War. Critical views on the war were less published due to the Prime Minister’s positive media representation strengthening her public image. Besides, the war showed that Britain was capable to defend itself which was important for the population in the time of the Cold War. Thatcher’s words addressed the citizens’ anxieties and uncertainties and made them feel proud about their country. Thus, she was well received and could win the election for a second time.

==Sources==
Dillon, George M. ''The Falklands, Politics and War.'' Basingstoke et al.: Macmillan, 1989.

Monaghan, David. ''The Falklands War. Myth and Countermyth.'' Basingstoke et al.: Macmillan, 1998.

Vinen, Richard. ''Thatcher’s Britain. The Politics and Social Upheaval of the Thatcher Era.'' London et al.: Simon and Schuster, 2009.

Falklands War

2011-05-17T07:51:13Z

Lsm: Created page with 'The Falklands War was a war between the United Kingdom and Argentina in 1982. The Falkland Islands are British territory, but Argentina claimed sovereignty over them.'

The Falklands War was a war between the United Kingdom and Argentina in 1982. The Falkland Islands are British territory, but Argentina claimed sovereignty over them.