EMPIRE: HOW BRITAIN MADE THE MODERN WORLD

PROGRAMME 3: THE MISSION

Following the religious revival that started in the late 18th century, missionaries began working in Africa and India in an attempt to bring Christianity and civilisation to societies perceived as heathens. We learn of David Livingstone's adventures in Africa as he attempted to link the three 'C's – Christianity, commerce and civilisation. From his discovery of the Victoria Falls to his famous meeting with Henry Stanley, we follow the career of this fascinating character.

Presenter Niall Ferguson also travels to India and examines the changing attitudes towards Indian religions and culture during the 19th century. He also traces the Indian mutiny of 1857 and its brutal aftermath in which thousands were brutally killed.

PROGRAMME AIMS

• To examine the impact of missionaries on colonial Africa
• To support students in understanding the moral attitudes and ambitions of the missionaries
• To stress the perceived link between commerce, Christianity and civilisation
• To describe the role David Livingstone played in Africa
• To compare British attitudes to Africa and India
• To analyse the causes and consequences of the Indian Mutiny.