0:00:00 > 0:00:00- Subtitles
0:00:00 > 0:00:02- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:00:16 > 0:00:19- Over the past 250 years...
0:00:19 > 0:00:21- ..Wales has been transformed.
0:00:22 > 0:00:25- Iron, copper, slate and coal - were the raw materials...
0:00:26 > 0:00:30- ..that turned our country - into an industrial nation.
0:00:30 > 0:00:32- The first of its kind in the world.
0:00:33 > 0:00:36- But in order for it - to evolve and grow...
0:00:36 > 0:00:40- ..it required more - than just natural resources.
0:00:40 > 0:00:45- Education, faith, language - and politics were key factors.
0:00:45 > 0:00:48- These days, some people claim...
0:00:48 > 0:00:52- ..that Wales - is the first post-industrial nation.
0:00:52 > 0:00:56- Machines might have prompted - the Industrial Revolution....
0:00:57 > 0:01:00- ..but it was people - who were at the helm.
0:01:00 > 0:01:04- Born out of extremely tough - working conditions...
0:01:04 > 0:01:08- ..a new working class - created its own future...
0:01:08 > 0:01:10- ..and formed our modern Wales.
0:01:13 > 0:01:15- This is - their history, our history...
0:01:16 > 0:01:19- ..and the history - of how a modern Wales was created.
0:01:40 > 0:01:43- In this episode, we'll follow - the remarkable process...
0:01:44 > 0:01:47- ..of creating a modern Wales...
0:01:47 > 0:01:50- ..from the mid-19th century - to the mid-20th century.
0:01:53 > 0:01:55- A person living in 1850s Wales...
0:01:55 > 0:02:00- ..would scarcely recognize - the Wales of the previous century.
0:02:04 > 0:02:06- By 1914...
0:02:07 > 0:02:11- ..250,000 men - were working in Wales's coalfields.
0:02:16 > 0:02:19- In addition, the iron, - steel and tin industries...
0:02:20 > 0:02:24- ..the railways and the docks - distributed the produce.
0:02:27 > 0:02:30- The new Wales - relied on new regimes.
0:02:30 > 0:02:34- Plans to safeguard - the poor, elderly and infirm.
0:02:34 > 0:02:39- This is a war budget.
0:02:39 > 0:02:42- It is to wage implacable warfare...
0:02:42 > 0:02:46- ..on poverty and squalidness.
0:02:46 > 0:02:48- One man was prominent...
0:02:48 > 0:02:52- ..in the battle to ensure - the affluent and powerful...
0:02:52 > 0:02:54- ..were fair to the ordinary worker.
0:02:55 > 0:02:56- And they will get it.
0:02:56 > 0:02:58- It was the combination...
0:02:59 > 0:03:03- ..of workers and their families, - the unions and the communities...
0:03:04 > 0:03:08- ..which characterized the age - and created a modern Wales.
0:03:13 > 0:03:15- Without a shadow of doubt...
0:03:16 > 0:03:19- ..this was the age - of ordinary people.
0:03:19 > 0:03:22- To understand their history...
0:03:22 > 0:03:25- ..I'm tracing the history - of my own family...
0:03:25 > 0:03:28- ..from Cardiganshire, - now known as Ceredigion.
0:03:28 > 0:03:33- As a little girl, my grandmother - came here to the Garw Valley...
0:03:33 > 0:03:35- ..a few miles from Bridgend.
0:03:35 > 0:03:38- Thousands of people flocked here...
0:03:38 > 0:03:41- ..because of the rapid growth - in the coal industry.
0:03:42 > 0:03:44- What prompted that growth?
0:03:44 > 0:03:47- A discovery. - A very significant one at that.
0:03:47 > 0:03:51- Not here in the Garw Valley - or in Cardiganshire but in London.
0:03:57 > 0:03:59- At the end of the 1840s...
0:03:59 > 0:04:03- ..scientists - working for the Royal Navy...
0:04:03 > 0:04:06- ..conducted - a series of experiments.
0:04:06 > 0:04:11- The wanted to discover which coal - from Britain was the best...
0:04:11 > 0:04:13- ..to burn as fuel for steam ships.
0:04:16 > 0:04:19- Months of work - brought about a conclusive outcome.
0:04:20 > 0:04:24- The best-burning and longest-lasting - coal is from South Wales.
0:04:31 > 0:04:36- This discovery prompts - a huge demand for the Valleys' coal.
0:04:39 > 0:04:42- This is - music to the ears of one man...
0:04:42 > 0:04:45- ..who owns - much of the land rich in coal.
0:04:45 > 0:04:49- John Patrick Crichton-Stuart, - the second Marquess of Bute...
0:04:49 > 0:04:51- ..endeavours to find it.
0:04:54 > 0:04:57- In 1851, Bute's company uncovers...
0:04:57 > 0:05:01- ..a dense layer of high-quality - steam coal in the Rhondda Fawr.
0:05:11 > 0:05:15- The hard work of the colliers - who come to the new coal mine...
0:05:15 > 0:05:18- ..makes it - a very profitable industry.
0:05:19 > 0:05:22- When word reaches other landowners - about the profit...
0:05:22 > 0:05:25- ..they too - start searching for the black gold.
0:05:25 > 0:05:30- David Davies of Llandinam, a shrewd - businessman from Mid Wales...
0:05:30 > 0:05:32- ..leads the way.
0:05:33 > 0:05:35- In a short space of time...
0:05:35 > 0:05:40- ..David Davies succeeds - in establishing his first coal mine.
0:05:40 > 0:05:42- He goes on to open more.
0:05:42 > 0:05:45- Others find fortune too.
0:05:49 > 0:05:52- Where previously - there were barren slopes...
0:05:52 > 0:05:57- ..there are now terraced houses - and nonconformist chapels.
0:05:58 > 0:06:03- Tens of thousands flocked - to the brand-new modern world.
0:06:07 > 0:06:09- Among them was my grandmother.
0:06:10 > 0:06:14- Her parents bid farewell - to rural Ceredigion...
0:06:14 > 0:06:16- ..and moved to the coalfield.
0:06:21 > 0:06:25- Here's the evidence - that some members of my family...
0:06:25 > 0:06:28- ..came here to Blaengarw to live.
0:06:28 > 0:06:31- These are - the original deeds to this house.
0:06:31 > 0:06:35- Number 22, Brynbedw Street, - Blaengarw.
0:06:35 > 0:06:39- This is where Mam-gu was raised - along with my mother.
0:06:39 > 0:06:43- Mam-gu and countless others - from rural Ceredigion...
0:06:43 > 0:06:46- ..came here to sample the hustle - and bustle of the new world.
0:06:47 > 0:06:51- There was enough work for the men - in every house in this street...
0:06:51 > 0:06:54- ..as well as neighbouring streets.
0:06:54 > 0:06:58- Collieries were springing up - all over the place.
0:06:58 > 0:07:00- One was situated 20 yards away.
0:07:00 > 0:07:04- It was also a challenge - for the wives to run a household...
0:07:04 > 0:07:07- ..in an industrial community.
0:07:09 > 0:07:12- A coal mine was opening - in every corner of the valley.
0:07:13 > 0:07:16- The Ocean, the International, - the Ffaldau, Lluest...
0:07:16 > 0:07:18- ..the Darran and the Glenavon.
0:07:19 > 0:07:23- The Garw Valley's new residents...
0:07:23 > 0:07:27- ..have to acclimatize - to the hustle and bustle.
0:07:27 > 0:07:30- The shops, the marches, - the socializing...
0:07:31 > 0:07:34- ..and living - in close proximity to one another.
0:07:34 > 0:07:39- This experience is typical - of Wales in the 19th century.
0:07:39 > 0:07:43- The noisy shift patterns replace - the tranquillity of the farms.
0:07:44 > 0:07:47- In the south, - they flock to the coal mines.
0:07:47 > 0:07:52- In the north, - they flock to the quarries.
0:07:52 > 0:07:54- Gwynedd is a hive of activity too.
0:07:57 > 0:08:00- This is Penrhyn slate quarry - near Bethesda...
0:08:01 > 0:08:03- ..on the fringes of Snowdonia.
0:08:03 > 0:08:08- Industry thrives here earlier - than in the South Wales coalfields.
0:08:13 > 0:08:18- This remarkable photograph of - the quarry dates back to the 1830s.
0:08:18 > 0:08:22- The quarrymen look like ants - scurrying across craggy terraces...
0:08:23 > 0:08:25- ..to reach the precious slate.
0:08:26 > 0:08:31- Some of the quarrymen's techniques - are still implemented today.
0:08:32 > 0:08:35- Fortunately, - other methods have changed.
0:08:38 > 0:08:42- Back then, the quarrymen put - their bodies and lives in danger...
0:08:43 > 0:08:46- ..excavating slate from the ground - for a paltry wage.
0:08:50 > 0:08:53- Conversely, - the owners were far better off.
0:08:54 > 0:08:57- To give you an idea - of the owners' wealth...
0:08:58 > 0:09:01- ..visit Penrhyn Castle near Bangor.
0:09:01 > 0:09:03- For much of the 19th century...
0:09:04 > 0:09:07- ..this amazing building - is the property and residence...
0:09:08 > 0:09:10- ..of Edward Gordon - Douglas-Pennant...
0:09:10 > 0:09:12- ..the first Baron Penrhyn.
0:09:15 > 0:09:18- In its most profitable era...
0:09:18 > 0:09:23- ..the owner of Penrhyn Quarry - is an incredibly wealthy individual.
0:09:23 > 0:09:28- This is how an affluent figure - lays his table for dinner.
0:09:34 > 0:09:36- Throughout Wales's long history...
0:09:37 > 0:09:39- ..few people - have feasted in such a way.
0:09:45 > 0:09:50- The money generated from the slate - industry allows Bangor to grow...
0:09:50 > 0:09:53- ..and improves - the face of North Wales.
0:09:55 > 0:10:00- Buildings are erected along - the coastline and towns flourish.
0:10:00 > 0:10:04- There is no better example - of Victorian confidence...
0:10:04 > 0:10:07- ..than - the holiday capital of Llandudno.
0:10:11 > 0:10:15- Back in South Wales, - the era's commercial confidence...
0:10:16 > 0:10:18- ..helps create a new city.
0:10:20 > 0:10:22- Cardiff prospers...
0:10:22 > 0:10:26- ..in response - to the rising demands for coal.
0:10:29 > 0:10:32- The Bute family profits the most.
0:10:32 > 0:10:36- Part of their fortune is spent - on restoring the old castle.
0:10:41 > 0:10:46- The third Marquess of Bute, the son - of John Patrick Crichton-Stuart...
0:10:46 > 0:10:50- ..is determined to create - a palace fit for a prince.
0:10:50 > 0:10:52- The prince of commerce.
0:10:52 > 0:10:57- Prominent architect - William Burges is commissioned...
0:10:57 > 0:10:59- ..to design the palace.
0:11:02 > 0:11:05- It is thanks - to the hard labour of the miners...
0:11:06 > 0:11:09- ..that this medieval fantasy - is created...
0:11:09 > 0:11:11- ..in the heart of a modern city.
0:11:12 > 0:11:16- In order to appreciate the wealth - which sustains the fantasy...
0:11:16 > 0:11:18- ..one must head to Cardiff Bay.
0:11:20 > 0:11:23- Cardiff - is the closest deep-sea port...
0:11:23 > 0:11:26- ..to the coal-mining valleys - of north Glamorgan.
0:11:29 > 0:11:33- Its wealth - is derived from global exports.
0:11:33 > 0:11:36- By the beginning - of the 20th century...
0:11:36 > 0:11:40- ..Cardiff is the largest - coal port in the world.
0:11:42 > 0:11:45- Hundreds of shipping companies - are situated here...
0:11:45 > 0:11:49- ..with owners - exporting huge cargoes of coal...
0:11:49 > 0:11:51- ..to four corners of the world.
0:11:51 > 0:11:56- They strike major business deals - on a daily basis.
0:11:56 > 0:12:02- The commercial centre for these - deals is this famous building.
0:12:02 > 0:12:05- The Coal Exchange - on Mount Stuart Square.
0:12:07 > 0:12:09- At its peak, - a host of coal merchants...
0:12:10 > 0:12:13- ..worked on the trading floor - of the Coal Exchange...
0:12:13 > 0:12:16- ..negotiating coal prices - and hiring ships...
0:12:17 > 0:12:19- ..to sail to faraway lands.
0:12:24 > 0:12:27- Cardiff's businessmen - were gentlemen.
0:12:27 > 0:12:31- All that was required to seal a deal - was a gentleman's handshake.
0:12:35 > 0:12:37- Having done their deals...
0:12:37 > 0:12:41- ..they headed to the exchange's - refectory to celebrate.
0:12:43 > 0:12:47- Afterwards, they returned - to the floor and played skittles...
0:12:48 > 0:12:49- ..with the empty bottles.
0:12:50 > 0:12:53- The South Wales coal trade - is a sure-fire hit.
0:12:57 > 0:12:59- But there was no champagne...
0:13:00 > 0:13:03- ..for my mother's family and - their neighbours in the Garw Valley.
0:13:06 > 0:13:08- Miners' wages were paltry...
0:13:08 > 0:13:11- ..compared to Bute - and Penrhyn's astounding wealth.
0:13:11 > 0:13:15- But the working class was generating - wealth of a different kind.
0:13:19 > 0:13:23- The South Wales coalfields - are famous throughout the world...
0:13:23 > 0:13:27- ..for the culture which emerged - from those communities.
0:13:27 > 0:13:32- Male voice choirs and mixed choirs - are formed from a unique society.
0:13:32 > 0:13:36- It happens because most of the - people who come to South Wales...
0:13:37 > 0:13:41- ..in the mid-19th century - to work in the coal mines...
0:13:41 > 0:13:43- ..share the same culture and legacy.
0:13:47 > 0:13:49- The move from rural Wales...
0:13:49 > 0:13:52- ..to the industrial valleys - was drastic.
0:13:52 > 0:13:55- The chapel - was the one constant in their lives.
0:13:55 > 0:14:00- It provided an anchor and solace - in a foreign environment.
0:14:00 > 0:14:04- This is my family's chapel - in the village of Blaengarw.
0:14:04 > 0:14:09- Tabernacl Chapel, where I was - baptized along with my sister...
0:14:09 > 0:14:12- ..where my parents were married...
0:14:12 > 0:14:15- ..and where Mam-gu - was a member for over 70 years.
0:14:15 > 0:14:19- One of the main attributes - of chapel life...
0:14:19 > 0:14:22- ..was the quality - of the hymn singing.
0:14:23 > 0:14:25- One-two.
0:14:29 > 0:14:34- The choral tradition typifies South - Wales's nonconformist culture...
0:14:34 > 0:14:38- ..in places such as Treorchy, - home of the world-renowned choir.
0:14:39 > 0:14:42- It created a sound that - the world had never before heard.
0:14:43 > 0:14:47- But the grandeur - of Wales' choral tradition...
0:14:48 > 0:14:51- ..doesn't remain a secret - for very long...
0:14:51 > 0:14:54- ..thanks to the pioneering work...
0:14:54 > 0:14:58- ..of a conductor from Aberdare - called Caradog.
0:14:58 > 0:15:04- Early in the 1870s, he travels - to London with 450 singers...
0:15:04 > 0:15:10- ..to compete in two competitions - at the famous Crystal Palace.
0:15:12 > 0:15:16- When the singers appear on stage - for the first time...
0:15:16 > 0:15:21- ..they have a profound effect - on the orchestra accompanying them.
0:15:24 > 0:15:26- The sound - creates so much of a shock...
0:15:27 > 0:15:31- ..that the instrumentalists - lose their place in the score.
0:15:32 > 0:15:37- In spite of this, Caradog's choir - wins first prize and 1,000.
0:15:38 > 0:15:42- The singing tradition - was flourishing in the valleys...
0:15:42 > 0:15:46- ..as the name - of this park in Blaengarw suggests.
0:15:46 > 0:15:51- Parc Calon Lan is a memorial - to Daniel James, Gwyrosydd.
0:15:52 > 0:15:55- He wrote the words - to one of our most famous hymns...
0:15:55 > 0:16:00- ..while he worked here - at one of the valley's collieries...
0:16:00 > 0:16:03- ..at the end of the 19th century.
0:16:03 > 0:16:08- "The world's gold and fine pearls" - were here in the Garw Valley.
0:16:08 > 0:16:11- For miners such as Gwyrosydd - and Mam-gu's family...
0:16:12 > 0:16:15- ..coal mining provided them - with a livelihood.
0:16:15 > 0:16:18- People from rural Wales - were able to come here...
0:16:19 > 0:16:22- ..and remain in their own country - to earn a living.
0:16:23 > 0:16:27- One of the most important - by-products of this migration...
0:16:27 > 0:16:32- ..was the strong presence of the - Welsh language in the coalfields.
0:16:32 > 0:16:35- It's no surprise that it was here...
0:16:35 > 0:16:38- ..that the famous words - of Calon Lan were written.
0:16:39 > 0:16:41- But if the Welsh language...
0:16:41 > 0:16:45- ..was going to survive - as an urban, modern language...
0:16:45 > 0:16:50- ..modern institutions would have - to be established to support it.
0:16:52 > 0:16:53- .
0:16:53 > 0:16:53- Subtitles
0:16:53 > 0:16:55- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:17:00 > 0:17:04- The Victorian era was a period - of enterprise and confidence.
0:17:05 > 0:17:07- Horizons were broadened...
0:17:07 > 0:17:11- ..giving rise to new developments - throughout the empire...
0:17:11 > 0:17:13- ..as well as across Wales.
0:17:16 > 0:17:19- One of them - stands here in Aberystwyth.
0:17:24 > 0:17:28- This spectacular structure - was designed as a hotel...
0:17:28 > 0:17:32- ..but the people of Wales - had different plans for it.
0:17:36 > 0:17:41- Establishing a university for Wales - was Owain Glyndwr's idea.
0:17:41 > 0:17:44- Four centuries - after Glyndwr's rebellion...
0:17:45 > 0:17:48- ..Wales was still - without a university.
0:17:48 > 0:17:52- But a group of influential figures - finally got together...
0:17:53 > 0:17:55- ..and insisted that a university...
0:17:55 > 0:17:59- ..was an integral part - of any cultured nation.
0:17:59 > 0:18:03- The vision to found a university...
0:18:04 > 0:18:07- ..played a part - in the creation of a modern Wales...
0:18:08 > 0:18:10- ..and inspired people - across the country.
0:18:10 > 0:18:14- Working men, the ordinary people, - made generous donations...
0:18:14 > 0:18:19- ..when it came to establishing - a home for the new university.
0:18:19 > 0:18:22- And a beautiful building - was erected.
0:18:22 > 0:18:24- The ambition is clear...
0:18:24 > 0:18:29- ..but in order to sustain - the vision, finance was needed.
0:18:29 > 0:18:33- Since the British government - was reluctant to support...
0:18:33 > 0:18:37- ..it was the people of Wales - who emptied their pockets...
0:18:37 > 0:18:40- ..to ensure the success - of this new enterprise.
0:18:40 > 0:18:44- But the people - were eager not to limit education...
0:18:44 > 0:18:47- ..to the most academic and bright.
0:18:47 > 0:18:52- A campaign was launched to ensure - every child received an education.
0:18:59 > 0:19:01- At the end of the 1880s...
0:19:01 > 0:19:03- ..Parliament passes a bill...
0:19:03 > 0:19:06- ..to create - free secondary schools in Wales.
0:19:07 > 0:19:09- But it comes at a price.
0:19:12 > 0:19:15- The language of the classroom - is English.
0:19:15 > 0:19:20- 25 a share - times the amount that you've bought.
0:19:20 > 0:19:25- It conveys the message that Welsh - is fine in the home and chapel...
0:19:25 > 0:19:29- ..but it's not the language - of education and progress.
0:19:30 > 0:19:33- The continuation - of the Welsh language...
0:19:34 > 0:19:38- ..in the modern industrial world - becomes even more important.
0:19:38 > 0:19:42- The Welsh language stands its ground - in the Garw Valley...
0:19:42 > 0:19:45- ..and in the valleys - to the west and east.
0:19:45 > 0:19:49- Unlike the native languages - of Scotland and Ireland...
0:19:49 > 0:19:52- ..that are rural languages...
0:19:52 > 0:19:57- ..the Welsh language - in the coalfields was evolving...
0:19:57 > 0:19:59- ..becoming deep-rooted - in the area.
0:20:00 > 0:20:03- As a result, at the beginning - of the 20th century...
0:20:04 > 0:20:08- ..there are a million Welsh - speakers, the highest ever number.
0:20:17 > 0:20:21- The valleys - are a Welsh-speaking stronghold...
0:20:21 > 0:20:24- ..but the miners - endure much hardship.
0:20:25 > 0:20:29- For every second - a miner is underground...
0:20:29 > 0:20:31- ..his life is put in more danger.
0:20:32 > 0:20:36- When the miner leaves home - early in the morning...
0:20:36 > 0:20:39- ..there is no guarantee - he will return.
0:20:39 > 0:20:44- It's no surprise that the miners - fostered a militant attitude.
0:20:47 > 0:20:50- In 1898, as wages decrease...
0:20:51 > 0:20:53- ..and jobs diminish...
0:20:53 > 0:20:56- ..the miners of South Wales - go on strike.
0:20:57 > 0:21:00- After six months - they must return to work...
0:21:00 > 0:21:03- ..on worse terms than before.
0:21:03 > 0:21:06- It's time for them - to form a stronger union.
0:21:06 > 0:21:10- Enter the South Wales - Miners' Federation, The Fed...
0:21:11 > 0:21:14- ..which precedes - the National Union of Mineworkers.
0:21:15 > 0:21:20- For generations afterwards, The Fed - held a prominent position...
0:21:20 > 0:21:24- ..guiding miners in their battle - to create a modern Wales.
0:21:30 > 0:21:34- The struggle to ensure - better working conditions...
0:21:34 > 0:21:36- ..wasn't - confined only to South Wales.
0:21:37 > 0:21:40- This is the location - of the era's largest strike.
0:21:40 > 0:21:43- The former site of Penrhyn Quarry.
0:21:43 > 0:21:46- At the turn of the 20th century...
0:21:46 > 0:21:51- ..this place was a hive of activity, - productivity and noise.
0:21:51 > 0:21:53- But in November 1900...
0:21:54 > 0:21:57- ..production - grinds to a sudden halt...
0:21:57 > 0:22:01- ..prompting one of the worst - strikes in British history.
0:22:09 > 0:22:13- On the day the strike is announced, - the 2,000 employees...
0:22:13 > 0:22:17- ..lay down their tools - and walk off site.
0:22:17 > 0:22:21- Unbeknown to them, they have been - tricked into doing so...
0:22:21 > 0:22:25- ..by their employer, - the second Baron Penrhyn.
0:22:25 > 0:22:27- He detests the trade unions...
0:22:27 > 0:22:30- ..and challenges - his workforce to go on strike...
0:22:31 > 0:22:34- ..thinking that it - will be of benefit to him.
0:22:34 > 0:22:38- He expects the strike to fail - within a couple of weeks...
0:22:38 > 0:22:42- ..thus avoiding - the union's intervention.
0:22:46 > 0:22:48- But that's not what happens.
0:22:50 > 0:22:54- Instead of a swift end to the - strike, like the Baron expects...
0:22:54 > 0:22:59- ..the strike rumbles on and on - creating huge tensions in the area.
0:23:03 > 0:23:06- This row of houses in Tregarth - was built in haste...
0:23:07 > 0:23:12- ..for the families of men - who break the strike.
0:23:12 > 0:23:16- The families of the quarrymen - who remain on strike...
0:23:16 > 0:23:20- ..begin to stick signs - in their windows.
0:23:20 > 0:23:23- "There are - no traitors in this house."
0:23:24 > 0:23:27- For decades later - in towns such as Bethesda...
0:23:27 > 0:23:32- ..there's no love lost between - the families of those on strike...
0:23:32 > 0:23:35- ..and those who went back to work.
0:23:38 > 0:23:41- The discord - continues for three years...
0:23:41 > 0:23:44- ..and is dubbed the Great Strike...
0:23:44 > 0:23:49- ..since it is the longest strike - in Britain's industrial history...
0:23:49 > 0:23:51- ..with dire consequences.
0:23:51 > 0:23:56- The strike implies that the North - Wales slate industry is unreliable.
0:23:58 > 0:24:00- Fewer orders are placed...
0:24:00 > 0:24:03- ..and thousands of workers - are out of work.
0:24:03 > 0:24:06- It leads to a protracted recession - in the area.
0:24:07 > 0:24:10- It is a tragedy - for the people of North Wales.
0:24:13 > 0:24:14- .
0:24:14 > 0:24:14- Subtitles
0:24:14 > 0:24:16- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:24:18 > 0:24:22- To meet the demand for a larger - workforce in the coalfields...
0:24:22 > 0:24:26- ..my grandmother's family - moved from rural Ceredigion...
0:24:27 > 0:24:29- ..to Blaengarw near Bridgend.
0:24:33 > 0:24:37- Tens of thousands of fellow - Welsh speakers did the same.
0:24:41 > 0:24:45- Until the early 20th century, - the traditional Welsh way of life...
0:24:45 > 0:24:50- ..thrived in the modern industrial - world as workers settled in.
0:24:50 > 0:24:55- But the coal-mining communities - begin to attract families...
0:24:55 > 0:25:01- ..whose backgrounds differ from the - Welsh nonconformist way of life...
0:25:02 > 0:25:05- ..where the chapel and choir - play a central role.
0:25:10 > 0:25:15- A brand new society develops - with new interests and new heroes.
0:25:17 > 0:25:21- The workers - have a modicum of free time...
0:25:21 > 0:25:23- ..and money left over.
0:25:23 > 0:25:27- They are ambitious people, - they are inventive.
0:25:27 > 0:25:32- They raise money to build libraries - and cultural centres...
0:25:32 > 0:25:34- ..across the valleys.
0:25:34 > 0:25:37- There are dozens of them, - including this one.
0:25:37 > 0:25:39- Blaengarw Workmen's Hall.
0:25:40 > 0:25:42- They were centres of education...
0:25:42 > 0:25:46- ..as well as entertainment.
0:25:56 > 0:25:59- In the valleys' workmen's halls...
0:25:59 > 0:26:02- ..the spirit of - the coal-mining era is still alive.
0:26:02 > 0:26:06- This is Freddie Welsh, - the famous boxer from South Wales...
0:26:06 > 0:26:09- ..who became - World Lightweight Champion.
0:26:15 > 0:26:17- And here's Dai Tarw Jones...
0:26:17 > 0:26:20- ..star of the successful - Wales rugby team...
0:26:21 > 0:26:24- ..at the beginning - of the 20th century.
0:26:26 > 0:26:30- Boxing and rugby are popular - pastimes in the coalfields...
0:26:30 > 0:26:33- ..as they are across Wales.
0:26:34 > 0:26:36- Throughout the Edwardian era...
0:26:36 > 0:26:39- ..people in the valleys - embrace the talents...
0:26:40 > 0:26:43- ..of opera singers, brass bands, - entertainers...
0:26:43 > 0:26:45- ..all kinds of performers.
0:26:45 > 0:26:49- Three Englishmen walk into a bar - and they notice a Welshman...
0:26:51 > 0:26:56- They are part of a rich cultural - mix that exists in South Wales...
0:26:56 > 0:26:58- ..on the brink - of the First World War.
0:27:03 > 0:27:07- But Wales's contribution - in one of these fields...
0:27:07 > 0:27:10- ..is more significant - than the others.
0:27:12 > 0:27:15- If there's one thing - that embodies Welshness...
0:27:15 > 0:27:20- ..and the notion of Wales across the - world, then it's undoubtedly rugby.
0:27:21 > 0:27:25- It was deeply rooted in the South - Wales coalfields a century ago.
0:27:25 > 0:27:27- In towns such as Pontypridd...
0:27:28 > 0:27:32- ..and in villages throughout the - valleys, rugby clubs were formed.
0:27:33 > 0:27:36- The big moment comes in 1905...
0:27:36 > 0:27:41- ..when the New Zealand All Blacks - are beaten by the national team.
0:27:41 > 0:27:44- This was the beginning - of a tradition...
0:27:44 > 0:27:47- ..which defines the modern Wales.
0:27:50 > 0:27:55- The New Zealand team annihilates the - opposition on their British tour.
0:27:55 > 0:27:57- But they arrive in Wales...
0:27:58 > 0:28:00- ..to take on the European Champions.
0:28:01 > 0:28:03- It is billed - as the World Championship.
0:28:08 > 0:28:13- The important point in all this - is that playing such teams...
0:28:13 > 0:28:16- ..helps define - the Welsh nation in a new era.
0:28:18 > 0:28:24- The All Blacks perform their famous - Haka before the first kick.
0:28:30 > 0:28:32- In 1905, it wasn't yet customary...
0:28:33 > 0:28:38- ..to sing the national anthems - before major games.
0:28:38 > 0:28:42- But on this occasion, - the Wales team and the crowd...
0:28:42 > 0:28:44- ..sing Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau...
0:28:45 > 0:28:48- ..a nationalistic song, - though only 50 years old...
0:28:48 > 0:28:51- ..is quickly becoming an anthem.
0:28:51 > 0:28:55- # Her brave warriors
0:28:56 > 0:29:00- # Very splendid patriots
0:29:00 > 0:29:02- # For freedom
0:29:02 > 0:29:08- # Shed their blood
0:29:08 > 0:29:12- # Wales, Wales
0:29:12 > 0:29:14- # I am loyal to Wales #
0:29:18 > 0:29:22- It's a closely-fought game - full of trickery and tactics.
0:29:22 > 0:29:27- There's a contentious try that the - All Blacks think they've scored.
0:29:29 > 0:29:32- But there's no denying Wales's try.
0:29:41 > 0:29:44- The home side wins 3-0.
0:29:52 > 0:29:56- The game is a highlight - in the buoyant history...
0:29:56 > 0:30:01- ..of the new industrial Wales - of the Victorian and Edwardian eras.
0:30:06 > 0:30:09- There was plenty to celebrate - in the modern Wales...
0:30:10 > 0:30:14- ..but there was no way of evading - hardship and conflict for long.
0:30:15 > 0:30:19- Both sides of my family - can testify to that.
0:30:20 > 0:30:23- My great-grandmother - on my father's side...
0:30:23 > 0:30:27- ..had moved - from West Wales to the coalfield...
0:30:27 > 0:30:31- ..and had met her future husband, - a young man from Cardiganshire.
0:30:31 > 0:30:36- Tens of thousands of them flock - to the valleys in search of work.
0:30:36 > 0:30:38- It was here in Senghennydd...
0:30:38 > 0:30:42- ..that my great-grandmother - spent some of her life.
0:30:42 > 0:30:45- They arrived in time to witness...
0:30:45 > 0:30:49- ..some of the most harrowing and - turbulent events of modern Wales.
0:30:52 > 0:30:57- A spirit of rebellion was emerging - on the streets of Tonypandy.
0:31:00 > 0:31:02- In September 1910...
0:31:03 > 0:31:06- ..miners there - were prevented from going to work...
0:31:07 > 0:31:09- ..by the owners - of the Cambrian Combine.
0:31:12 > 0:31:16- In early November...
0:31:16 > 0:31:20- ..there was a fierce exchange - between the miners...
0:31:20 > 0:31:24- ..and the London police, who - had been drafted in by the owners.
0:31:26 > 0:31:29- The miners' protest - turns into a riot...
0:31:30 > 0:31:32- ..and takes over the high street.
0:31:38 > 0:31:42- The people of Tonypandy still - remember the official response...
0:31:43 > 0:31:45- ..which saw Sir Winston Churchill...
0:31:46 > 0:31:48- ..deploying soldiers to the Rhondda.
0:31:49 > 0:31:52- It is their presence - which quells the fracas...
0:31:53 > 0:31:56- ..in favour of the mine owners.
0:31:58 > 0:32:01- In light of events in Tonypandy...
0:32:01 > 0:32:05- ..a younger generation of leaders - emerges in The Fed.
0:32:05 > 0:32:08- In 1912 - they set out their manifesto...
0:32:08 > 0:32:11- ..in a very astute pamphlet.
0:32:11 > 0:32:15- The pamphlet is entitled - The Miners' Next Step.
0:32:17 > 0:32:20- The new working class - raises its voice...
0:32:20 > 0:32:24- ..but within a year, - they are beset by another tragedy.
0:32:28 > 0:32:32- On 14 October 1913 - in Senghennydd...
0:32:32 > 0:32:36- ..an underground explosion - occurs at the Universal colliery.
0:32:36 > 0:32:39- It is one of the worst disasters...
0:32:39 > 0:32:42- ..in the history - of the coal-mining industry.
0:32:42 > 0:32:45- 439 men and boys lost their lives.
0:32:55 > 0:32:59- My great-grandfather - was a miner at the colliery...
0:32:59 > 0:33:02- ..but he and his family - were fortunate that day...
0:33:02 > 0:33:05- ..that he was working - a different shift.
0:33:05 > 0:33:10- But it was a heart-rending tale - for hundreds of other families.
0:33:11 > 0:33:14- It forces me to ask one question.
0:33:14 > 0:33:18- If shift patterns - had been different that day...
0:33:18 > 0:33:24- ..what fate awaited - all those families, including mine?
0:33:32 > 0:33:34- I felt privileged therefore...
0:33:34 > 0:33:38- ..presenting the news 100 years - to the day after the disaster.
0:33:38 > 0:33:42- The worst mining disaster - in British history...
0:33:42 > 0:33:46- ..happened 100 years ago today - in Senghennydd, South Wales.
0:33:46 > 0:33:48- 440 men and boys died...
0:33:49 > 0:33:54- ..when explosions ripped through - the colliery on 14 October 1913.
0:33:54 > 0:33:58- A national memorial has been - unveiled to mark the event.
0:34:00 > 0:34:05- Working conditions and the dangers - of coal mining were obvious to all.
0:34:05 > 0:34:08- Meanwhile, - the Senghennydd tragedy proved...
0:34:08 > 0:34:13- ..that the law put a high price - on the owners' business...
0:34:13 > 0:34:16- ..and no price at all - on the lives of miners.
0:34:16 > 0:34:18- During the inquest...
0:34:19 > 0:34:23- ..there was talk of - bad management and cost cutting...
0:34:23 > 0:34:25- ..but nobody was imprisoned...
0:34:25 > 0:34:28- ..and the sum total of the fine...
0:34:28 > 0:34:32- ..for the manager - and the owners of the mine was 24.
0:34:43 > 0:34:48- The era's most shocking and tragic - events happened in South Wales...
0:34:48 > 0:34:52- ..but one must travel - to North Wales...
0:34:52 > 0:34:56- ..to trace the history - of Wales's most influential figure.
0:34:56 > 0:35:02- Only one politician from Wales - has been Prime Minister of Britain.
0:35:02 > 0:35:06- The great Liberal from North Wales, - David Lloyd George.
0:35:06 > 0:35:10- He was a dynamic, - exceptionally intelligent man...
0:35:10 > 0:35:14- ..and one of the best orators - Britain has ever seen.
0:35:14 > 0:35:18- He was a highly-respected - international statesman.
0:35:21 > 0:35:23- Having been - brought up in a cottage...
0:35:24 > 0:35:27- ..he reaches Westminster in 1890...
0:35:27 > 0:35:29- ..as the MP for Caernarfon.
0:35:29 > 0:35:33- He's appointed to the Cabinet - in 1905, and three years later...
0:35:34 > 0:35:37- ..he holds the post - of Chancellor of the Exchequer...
0:35:38 > 0:35:40- ..in a very radical government.
0:35:42 > 0:35:44- Even in the early days...
0:35:44 > 0:35:49- ..Lloyd George aspired to reach - number 10 Downing Street...
0:35:49 > 0:35:51- ..and become Prime Minister.
0:35:51 > 0:35:54- He fulfils - great feats along the way.
0:35:54 > 0:35:57- Next door is 11 Downing Street...
0:35:57 > 0:36:00- ..the home of the Chancellor.
0:36:00 > 0:36:05- This is where Lloyd George - changes the lives of millions.
0:36:05 > 0:36:08- He creates a pension - for the elderly.
0:36:08 > 0:36:11- Five shillings - for those over 70 years old...
0:36:12 > 0:36:17- ..but for many people, it signifies - the end of starvation and poverty.
0:36:18 > 0:36:23- But the chancellor from a humble - background goes even further.
0:36:23 > 0:36:27- He wants to help - the unemployed and the infirm.
0:36:28 > 0:36:31- In order to do that, - he must find the money.
0:36:31 > 0:36:35- One way to do that is - by raising the taxes of the wealthy.
0:36:35 > 0:36:40- This is what he does in his famous - budget, the People's Budget of 1909.
0:36:40 > 0:36:44- This is a war budget.
0:36:44 > 0:36:48- It is to wage implacable warfare...
0:36:48 > 0:36:51- ..on poverty and squalidness.
0:36:52 > 0:36:54- The budget pits him against...
0:36:54 > 0:36:57- ..the affluent landowners - of the House of Lords...
0:36:57 > 0:36:59- ..who reject his proposal.
0:37:00 > 0:37:04- During this time, they refer - to Lloyd George as a revolutionary.
0:37:05 > 0:37:07- ..forcing a revolution...
0:37:07 > 0:37:09- ..and they will get it.
0:37:14 > 0:37:16- But it is he who wins the day.
0:37:16 > 0:37:19- The Lords may decree a revolution...
0:37:19 > 0:37:22- ..but it is - the people who will direct it.
0:37:23 > 0:37:28- Lloyd George passes the - National Insurance Bill of 1911...
0:37:28 > 0:37:32- ..which aids - the infirm and the unemployed.
0:37:32 > 0:37:35- It's fair to say - that the Welsh wizard...
0:37:36 > 0:37:39- ..laid the foundations - for the Welfare State.
0:37:39 > 0:37:43- But Lloyd George - is perhaps more famous...
0:37:43 > 0:37:46- ..for his leadership - during World War 1.
0:37:51 > 0:37:54- Though he opposes - the preparations for war...
0:37:55 > 0:38:00- ..when the German Kaiser invades - the small country of Belgium...
0:38:00 > 0:38:02- ..Lloyd George is incensed...
0:38:03 > 0:38:05- ..and becomes - an avid supporter of war.
0:38:08 > 0:38:11- Initially, Wales - is strongly in favour of the war...
0:38:12 > 0:38:14- ..since everyone believed...
0:38:14 > 0:38:19- ..they were fighting to defend a - small country against the Germans.
0:38:20 > 0:38:25- Some 280,000 join the armed forces.
0:38:25 > 0:38:27- Many volunteer.
0:38:30 > 0:38:32- From the villages of rural Wales...
0:38:32 > 0:38:36- ..men are leaving behind - their wives and children.
0:38:36 > 0:38:39- The government - tries to assure its citizens...
0:38:40 > 0:38:42- ..that the fighting will end soon.
0:39:02 > 0:39:05- By the time - the war is over in 1918...
0:39:05 > 0:39:09- ..millions across Europe - have been killed.
0:39:09 > 0:39:12- 40,000 wives across Wales - receive tragic news.
0:39:14 > 0:39:17- Though Britain wins the day...
0:39:17 > 0:39:19- ..many families are bereaved...
0:39:19 > 0:39:24- ..with widows having to raise - their children single-handedly.
0:39:29 > 0:39:32- Despite the sacrifice, - Lloyd George is resolute.
0:39:33 > 0:39:36- He has the ability - to lift the spirits...
0:39:37 > 0:39:40- ..and inspire people in adversity.
0:39:40 > 0:39:44- Following the ceasefire of 1918...
0:39:44 > 0:39:49- ..David Lloyd George is acknowledged - as the man who won the war.
0:39:53 > 0:39:58- Lloyd George lost respect - in the subsequent years after WWI.
0:39:58 > 0:40:01- The South Wales workforce - turned to the Labour Party.
0:40:02 > 0:40:05- But there's a good reason - why this statue of Lloyd George...
0:40:05 > 0:40:08- ..is in a prominent position...
0:40:08 > 0:40:12- ..here in the Members' Lobby - of the House of Commons.
0:40:13 > 0:40:16- Winston Churchill - also has a prominent spot, granted.
0:40:17 > 0:40:21- But this is a man who was raised - in a cottage in North Wales...
0:40:21 > 0:40:24- ..and who became - British Prime Minister...
0:40:24 > 0:40:27- ..laying the foundations - of the Welfare State.
0:40:27 > 0:40:31- He was no saint or angel - but he performed miracles...
0:40:31 > 0:40:35- ..that very few have surpassed.
0:40:37 > 0:40:38- .
0:40:40 > 0:40:40- Subtitles
0:40:40 > 0:40:42- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:40:48 > 0:40:52- The birth of a modern Wales - didn't happen without pain.
0:40:52 > 0:40:55- The years - following the First World War...
0:40:55 > 0:40:58- ..were very harsh - for the people of Wales.
0:40:58 > 0:41:01- Demand for coal was dwindling...
0:41:01 > 0:41:05- ..men were losing their jobs - and collieries were closing.
0:41:05 > 0:41:10- In spite - of David Lloyd George's efforts...
0:41:10 > 0:41:14- ..the Welfare State model - was far from established.
0:41:18 > 0:41:22- After being so close - to the Senghennydd tragedy...
0:41:22 > 0:41:26- ..my great-grandfather - decides it is time to leave.
0:41:28 > 0:41:33- He and the family return to the - familiar territory of Ceredigion...
0:41:33 > 0:41:36- ..in a bid to improve - their health...
0:41:36 > 0:41:40- ..but his efforts are in vain - as he died a young man.
0:41:51 > 0:41:55- In the coalfields, The Fed - tries to protect its members...
0:41:55 > 0:41:57- ..their working conditions - and wages.
0:42:00 > 0:42:05- But the situation is hopeless - and deteriorates year after year.
0:42:06 > 0:42:09- By the spring of 1926...
0:42:09 > 0:42:11- ..the price of coal plummets...
0:42:11 > 0:42:14- ..thousands of miners - are out of work...
0:42:14 > 0:42:18- ..and colliery owners - decide to reduce wages.
0:42:18 > 0:42:24- Bear in mind that the miners' - families were already suffering.
0:42:24 > 0:42:29- What follows is one of the most - painful, yet heroic, periods...
0:42:29 > 0:42:33- ..in the history - of the South Wales coalfields.
0:42:34 > 0:42:37- The workers - reject their employers' demands.
0:42:38 > 0:42:43- Workers throughout Britain show - their support by going on strike.
0:42:44 > 0:42:47- The government - responds in a very cruel way.
0:42:47 > 0:42:51- Within nine days, - the famous General Strike is over.
0:42:54 > 0:42:57- But the miners themselves - refuse to yield.
0:42:57 > 0:43:00- They stay on strike - for several months...
0:43:00 > 0:43:05- ..having been inspired by - the leadership of Wales's miners.
0:43:08 > 0:43:12- Miners receive - no strike pay or benefits.
0:43:13 > 0:43:15- Their only source of sustenance...
0:43:15 > 0:43:18- ..is a very effective - community programme.
0:43:21 > 0:43:25- Committees raise money to buy food - for the famous soup kitchens...
0:43:26 > 0:43:29- ..which were housed - in the local hall or chapel vestry.
0:43:30 > 0:43:34- The support they receive allows - the miners to hold out on strike...
0:43:34 > 0:43:36- ..for seven long months.
0:43:36 > 0:43:39- By October 1926...
0:43:40 > 0:43:43- ..fatigue and starvation - forces them back to work.
0:43:46 > 0:43:49- The unions are forced - to accept the owners' terms.
0:43:49 > 0:43:53- The Fed's stalwarts - aren't offered any work at all.
0:43:56 > 0:43:59- For those fortunate enough - to be re-employed...
0:44:00 > 0:44:04- ..the reward was longer - working hours for reduced wages.
0:44:06 > 0:44:08- The love and support - of the family...
0:44:09 > 0:44:12- ..became far more important - at the end of the shift.
0:44:13 > 0:44:16- One of the main characteristics....
0:44:16 > 0:44:19- ..of life in the coalfields - of modern Wales...
0:44:19 > 0:44:22- ..was the woman's role.
0:44:22 > 0:44:26- Her influence was felt everywhere.
0:44:26 > 0:44:29- Certainly at home, - in the shops, in the chapels...
0:44:30 > 0:44:34- ..in the cultural societies - and social clubs.
0:44:34 > 0:44:37- Women made a positive contribution.
0:44:37 > 0:44:42- They had the drive - to fight against injustice.
0:44:45 > 0:44:48- The whole family - became part of the same campaign.
0:44:49 > 0:44:53- Today's valleys' children - still march in their honour.
0:44:53 > 0:44:57- It was the mothers who put - the food on the table at home...
0:44:57 > 0:45:01- ..in the soup kitchens - and in the community cafes...
0:45:01 > 0:45:06- ..when recession, unemployment - and poverty followed a strike...
0:45:06 > 0:45:08- ..during the 1920s and 1930s.
0:45:14 > 0:45:16- It's hard to believe - what happened...
0:45:16 > 0:45:19- ..in the South Wales Valleys - during the 1930s.
0:45:20 > 0:45:24- People had to scavenge for coal - on coal tips to heat their homes.
0:45:28 > 0:45:32- Having been let down - by Lloyd George and Liberalism...
0:45:32 > 0:45:34- ..people turn to - the Labour Party for support.
0:45:35 > 0:45:38- They vote for them - in their thousands...
0:45:38 > 0:45:42- ..but Labour is weak across Britain - and there is no improvement.
0:45:46 > 0:45:49- Wales is a nation under threat.
0:45:50 > 0:45:54- In less than seven months, a quarter - of a million people leave Wales.
0:45:57 > 0:46:01- They collect their belongings - and take the bus or train...
0:46:02 > 0:46:05- ..to the cities of England - in the hope of a better life.
0:46:12 > 0:46:16- Efforts to make Wales an industrial - powerhouse aren't in vain, however.
0:46:17 > 0:46:21- The dedication of the people, - their innovation, hard work...
0:46:21 > 0:46:25- ..and their struggle for fair play - haven't been in vain either.
0:46:25 > 0:46:30- The Great Depression of the 1930s...
0:46:30 > 0:46:34- ..was a period of suffering - for the coal-mining communities.
0:46:34 > 0:46:38- The Second World War - was also around the corner...
0:46:38 > 0:46:41- ..to put them - under even more pressure.
0:46:41 > 0:46:46- But during the intervening years, - none would forget the bleak 1930s...
0:46:46 > 0:46:51- ..and everybody was determined - to prevent austerity from returning.
0:46:54 > 0:46:55- After the War...
0:46:56 > 0:47:00- ..the working class goes on - to re-invent a modern Wales.
0:47:00 > 0:47:03- But this time, - it's on their own terms...
0:47:03 > 0:47:06- ..as we discover - in the next episode.
0:47:33 > 0:47:35- S4C Subtitles by Adnod Cyf.
0:47:35 > 0:47:36- .