Listening to Britain

First publication of a unique resource that provides fascinating insight into the mood of the nation - at a crucial time in the Second World War when the conflict's outcome was far from certain

From May to September 1940, during a period that saw some of the most dramatic events of the war - the evacuation from Dunkirk, and, the Battle of Britain - the Ministry of Information compiled daily reports on the morale of the nation for circulation within Whitehall. These reports provide insight into the unfolding drama of Britain at war.From May to September 1940, a period that saw some of the most dramatic events in British history - including the evacuation of Dunkirk, the Battle of Britain and the opening stages of the Blitz - the Ministry of Information eavesdropped on the conversations of ordinary people in all parts of the United Kingdom and compiled secret daily reports on the state of popular morale.